Boost for North East aviation sector with local talent influx at Teesside Airport

Teesside International Airport has announced an influx of new talent thanks to a local college.

10 students from Middlesbrough College have taken new roles across the airport following participation in airport and airline management courses.

Some of the new starters have recently completed their degrees, while others are beginning to embark on the course or start top-up degrees to earn the qualification.

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen commented: “Our fantastic further education institutions are preparing young people from across Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool with the skills they need to succeed right here, and I’m delighted Teesside Airport can play a small part in supporting these students.

“By supporting young people, one of the groups hardest hit economically by the coronavirus pandemic, we’re showing them they don’t need to leave the region to secure good-quality, well-paid jobs. I hope they are as proud as we are for them to be adding value to our airport, helping turn it around and keep it flying for generations to come.

“Only by working closely with Middlesbrough College, other institutions and our brilliant businesses can we make sure the right skills are being delivered to the right people, filling the gaps our companies are crying out for and helping them, and our workers, to thrive and grow.”

Sarah Sutcliffe, aviation programme leader at Middlesbrough College, added: “After a difficult year for the aviation industry, students studying Airport and Airline Management at Middlesbrough College have used their learning and seen their careers take off with opportunities arising at our local airport.

“The recent successful growth of Teesside International Airport has meant opportunities have been presented and our relationship with the airport has offered a pathway for our students to switch from classroom to airport and transfer their learning to real life.

“Our aviation and travel courses play an important role in growing local talent and being able to place this talent locally supports the economic growth of our region.”