The Bombardier Welding Division is a combination of three fitting/welding centres which have joined to form a group called Mechanical Systems. The division was required to change its training programme in order to comply with a new quality audit system called NUCAP. NUCAP is an internationally recognized quality standard that is regulated and audited by its members. In fact, the quality team at Bombardier is at such a high standard that they are able to audit the processes themselves – a major compliment to the high standards within the division.
Brian embarked on a lengthy training development process in a joint venture with his in-house training team, his own local method engineering, materials and process technicians, in-house Health & Safety specialists and North Down & Ards Technology and Innovation Centre. South Eastern Regional College was chosen as a partner in this venture because of their extensive experience in Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding and in particular their knowledge of the standards required to attain aircraft standard certificate approval.
A brand new bespoke training programme was developed by the team – Joining Materials by Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG). This certified training programme was launched in 2006 and all activity takes place within the department. The training programme is a combination of theory and practical hands-on activity. Assessment is extremely stringent as the welders will be working on metal parts for aircraft. A number of approvers must audit the trainees’ metalwork to ensure that each piece is of the highest standards including; quality approved inspectors and the laboratory team who carry out pressure and x-ray testing. The course has proved to be so successful that it is envisaged that it will be developed into an NVQ Level 3 certificate.
Brian said, “A very close personal bond has now formed between Bombardier Shorts and The South Eastern Regional College and we each hope to benefit from the other’s strengths and experience. The team at The South Eastern Regional College has been very supportive and their professional approach in helping us to develop this verifiable TIG welding course was second-to-none. Nothing was too much trouble.”