Mubadala Aerospace has signed a Dh4.9 million ($1.33 million) agreement with UAE University (UAEU) to train the next generation of Emirati technicians to work at Strata’saircraft composite production facility.

The new initiative, with key modules delivered by professional trainers from Lockheed Martin, builds on the success of existing programs, which have already resulted in the employment of over 95 Emirati staff at Strata over the past two years.

This program will introduce an additional 90 to 100 Emirati employees to Strata by early 2015, using the high level technical skills gained to construct composite parts for the leading original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) including Airbus and Boeing, said a statement from Mubadala.

The agreement was signed by Homaid Al Shemmari, the executive director of Mubadala Aerospace and Dr Ali Rashid Al Noaimi, the vice chancellor of UAE University at Idex in the presence of Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, the minister of higher education and scientific research and chancellor of UAEU, and Khaldoon Al Mubarak, the managing director and CEO of Mubadala.

“As part of the UAE’s commitment to growth and diversification, UAE University is putting in place strong partnerships with local and international companies and institutions, to ensure that we best prepare our students to contribute to the nation’s ongoing success,” said Sheikh Nahayan.

"By working with these esteemed partners, the university, which occupies a leading position among world universities in terms of its education and research capabilities, can provide high quality training programs across key industry sectors that meet the needs of infrastructure services, and the economic and social development in the UAE," he noted.

"Our training program with Mubadala Aerospace is a perfect addition to our existing courses," he added.

Dr Al Noaimi said the co-operative partnership between the University and Mubadala Aerospace will open up new opportunities for young people as they explore how they can play a role in the industry’s future.

"The university is committed to developing programs to the highest global standards and specifications, as we plan for the future requirements of the local and international labor market, and allow young people to fulfill their aspirations," he stated.

Al Shemmari said Mubadala Aerospace was proud to support the growth of UAE nationals through this new facility and program, allowing talented young students to fulfill their potential by becoming an integral part of the UAE’s growing global aerospace industry.

"Aligning with UAE University and Lockheed Martin will ensure our students receive international standards of education and training, and most importantly are equipped with the skills to allow Strata to continue to deliver to the highest standards for its partners and customers across the globe," he added.-TradeArabia News Service