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.
NCC at FIA 2026
Together with the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority, NCC experts will be at the Farnborough International Airshow 2026 sharing how we're enabling world leading innovators from aerospace, defence and beyond.
