Bespoke composite training for GE Aerospace
GE Aerospace repair teams handle some of the most safety-critical tasks in aviation. When they asked us to help build a bespoke training programme focused on composite repairs, we knew it had to deliver more than just theory - it had to work in practice, on the shop floor, straight away.
We’d worked together before. But this time, the goal was a full, fit-for-purpose course built around GE’s day-to-day repair environment - so every technician left more capable and more confident.
The challenge
GE Aerospace carries out composite repairs under tight time pressure and even tighter safety requirements. Their technicians are experienced - but as composite materials and techniques evolve, so do the risks of inconsistency or rework.
GE didn’t want a generic course. They wanted something that reflected the real-world jobs their teams were doing - built around practical application, not just PowerPoint. A course that respected their skills while closing key gaps.
The approach
We developed a three-day, hands-on training course from the ground up - shaped directly by GE’s operational needs and team feedback.
- Real materials, real kit - participants used actual damaged components and tools from GE’s environment
- Key repair methods - scarfing, vacuum bagging, core repairs - delivered in practical sessions
- Small groups, high focus - five cohorts of four, maximising individual learning
- Delivered by engineers - Justin Whiting, our technical trainer, brought deep experience and clarity. Oversight from Engineering Capability Lead James Waldock ensured rigour.
- Jointly developed - including a pre-rollout dry-run with GE specialists to get it right first time
The result - training built around real jobs, not textbook examples - and engineers who could apply what they’d learned the next day.
Results
Feedback from the teams was clear: the balance of hands-on and theory hit the mark.
“Exactly what we needed,” said Chris Perrett, Special Process Engineer at GE. He praised Justin’s ability to explain complex repairs in a way that made sense to working technicians.
The course ran without a hitch - a sign the dry-run and joint planning paid off.
Impact
The training is already improving day-to-day work: fewer errors, more consistency, stronger confidence on the shop floor. It’s also reducing rework and reinforcing GE’s safety-first approach.
And it’s not a one-off. This programme has set a strong foundation for long-term collaboration - and we’re already talking about what comes next.
What’s next?
Composite repair doesn’t stand still. Neither do we. As GE’s materials, sites and skills evolve, we’ll keep adapting - and we’re ready to support the next stage.
If you’re looking to upskill your composites team with hands-on, tailored training, get in touch.