AP Government Partners with Boeing to Train Diploma Students for Aerospace Jobs
In a major push to boost youth employability, the coalition government of Andhra Pradesh has launched a large-scale initiative to provide students with industry-ready skills during their academic years. The programme, developed in collaboration with private companies, aims to ensure that students are job-ready even before graduation.
As part of the initiative, the State Technical Education Department is conducting a six-month specialised training programme for final-year Diploma Mechanical students at the MSME SEZ in Atchutapuram, with support from aircraft manufacturer Boeing. According to officials, the training has already delivered positive outcomes, with nearly 80% of participants securing placements in reputed firms.
The current batch, the fifth since the programme’s launch, has seen students placed in leading companies including Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), GE Aerospace, L&T Defence, Maruti Suzuki, and Royal Enfield. Placement packages range from Rs 2.4 lakh to Rs 4.75 lakh annually.
“The aviation industry is expanding rapidly. This training programme, developed with the Boeing Learning Links Foundation, is designed to create maximum employment opportunities for diploma mechanical students. Efforts are also underway to bring more aerospace companies on board for campus placements,” said Dr. M.A.V. Ramakrishna, Deputy Director, Training and Placements, State Technical Education Department.
The six-month curriculum is divided into two phases. The first three months focus on aerospace manufacturing and technical training, while the second phase emphasises soft skills, manufacturing practices, and English communication. Officials said the training is designed to give students hands-on experience to bridge the gap between academics and industry.
“The uniqueness of this programme lies in its balance between technical expertise and communication skills. It not only prepares students for the shop floor but also equips them to face interviews and adapt to global industry standards,” said a senior faculty member from a government polytechnic in Visakhapatnam.
The initiative is fully supported by the Boeing Learning Links Foundation under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme. Apart from covering all training expenses, the foundation provides each student with a Rs 3,000 monthly stipend.
“This is one of our most impactful CSR collaborations in India. We are proud to partner with the State Technical Education Department in creating an ecosystem where young diploma students can find opportunities in aerospace and allied industries. The skills imparted here are on par with global standards,” said a representative from the Boeing Learning Links Foundation.
Officials confirmed that the government plans to expand the programme to include more disciplines in the future, thereby opening opportunities for diploma and engineering students across various sectors.
“With industry partners coming forward to support training and placements, Andhra Pradesh is positioning itself as a hub for skilled manpower in aerospace and defence manufacturing,” Dr. Ramakrishna added.