The PRI Qualification program has joined a new €2.8 million European Union-funded project which aims to address the shortage of skilled personnel within the aerospace and defense sectors.

Known as AILEEN, the four-year project involves 18 partners from seven countries including Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Portugal, Spain, Turkey and the U.K., led by the European Welding Federation.

Working with other project members, the PRI Qualification program will assist AILEEN in its objective of guaranteeing specialized sectoral training, by helping establish Advanced Manufacturing Centers of Vocational Excellence (CoVEs) to co-create skills ecosystems, contributing to regional economic and social development, innovation, and smart specialization strategies.

The CoVes will comprise local bodies, including Vocational Education and Training (VET) providers, employers, chambers, research centers, development agencies, employment services, and social partners, among others. The project will also co-ordinate implementation of recognized E.U. qualification systems in Welding and Additive Manufacturing.

Hannah Godfrey, Vice President of Professional Development at the Performance Review Institute (PRI), said: “The PRI Qualification program, as a trusted global qualification body for the aerospace industry, is proud to be taking a pro-active role in helping address the ongoing shortage of experts in the aerospace and defense sector. Working with other leaders in specialized education, training and qualification, and with European Union funding confirmed, we are confident that we can make a real difference.”

Work-based learning approaches and problem-based learning methodologies will be central to the training activities which will foster practical skills and hands-on experience. Additionally, AILEEN will leverage digital tools, including augmented and virtual reality training, to capitalize on E.U. advanced manufacturing initiatives.