SASKATOON – A donation of aircraft components, including machined parts, sheet metal, acrylic plastics, electrical and mechanical parts and hardware, has been delivered to the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies (SIIT).
The support from Bell Textron Canada Limited is valued at $6.2 million CAD.
The donation is designed to enhance SIIT's Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) program, providing students with access to a diverse range of aircraft components for hands-on training and practical experience. The donated parts are comprised of surplus inventory from Bell which is obsolete with no potential rework or spares use on Bell’s end, according to a Bell press release.
"We are proud to support the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies and contribute to the development of the next generation of aviation professionals,” says Michael Nault, general manager of Bell Textron Canada.
“This donation reflects our commitment to advancing education and skills within the aerospace industry and supporting Indigenous youth and communities in their pursuit of careers in aviation."
The donated parts were delivered to SIIT in two shipments in October to ensure that SIIT has timely access to the components, facilitating integration into their training programs.
“Bell Textron Canada’s donation directly supports SIIT’s AME program, giving Indigenous students practical experience with real aircraft components,” said Mark Pollard, dean of Trades and Industrial at SIIT.
“This donation strengthens our efforts to equip students with the skills they need to succeed in the aerospace industry and build rewarding careers.”
