Recognising the unique environment in which pilot training organisations work, the Independent Tertiary Education Council Australia (ITECA) has launched the ITECA Aviation Pilot Training Interest Group. ITECA is the peak business organisation representing independent providers in the higher education, vocational education, training and skills sectors.
"ITECA has always had member organisations that have delivered pilot training. As it's a growing component of ITECA's membership we've formed this interest group to allow them to share ideas, learn from each other and also contribute to the debate about reform to Australia's vocational education and training sector," said Mr Troy Williams, ITECA Chief Executive.
ITECA has been working with a select number of aviation training providers on matters such as access to the VET Student Loan program and the challenges brought about by aviation pilot training in the Covid -19 environment. This highlights the importance of ensuring that the ITECA Aviation Pilot Training Interest Group has input from a wide range of stakeholders across the aviation sector.
"Social distancing has made pilot training quite difficult, actually nearly impossible. This has sever ely impact ed the ability of flight schools to support students in the air, so we're busy working with state and territory governments to put in place appropriate measures. If it's now okay for us to go to restaurants.
surely it's okay for us to train pilots," Mr Williams said.
The ITECA Aviation Pilot Training Interest Group will also give Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) that train pilots with a strong voice in the policy debate.
"From working with the sector's regulator, through to qualifications development, we provide RTOs with a strong voice in the policy debate. It will be great to work with more providers in the aviation sector with a reputation for quality as they drive reform," Mr Williams concluded.
