For the past three or four years, aerospace trade schools have noticed the industry’s desire to go green. Companies are investing massively in cleaner energy, and schools are following it with eco-conscious research projects.
“We are in the process of equipping ourselves with purchases, equipment and infrastructure, to be able to test hybrid and electric motors”, indicates in an interview Pascal Désilets, director of the National School of Aerotechnics (ENA).
Some machines, like those used to move airplanes, are starting to go electric. “These are the first ones we will have and we will become familiar with them”, notes Pascal Désilets. In addition, both students and teachers are involved in various applied research projects, which then allows them to “bring this wealth of knowledge” to the labor market.
Mr. Désilets feels that there is currently a “momentum towards ecoaviation”. He is enthusiastic, since the enrollment of future students is up 40% compared to last year.
These new arrivals will be able to follow the new training in robotics, which has a brand new complete laboratory, or be part of the new wave of technicians called upon to “do programming according to the new aeronautical standards”.
PHOTO CHARLES WILLIAM PELLETIER, SPECIAL COLLABORATION
Pascal Désilets, director of the National School of Aerotechnics
From a perspective of sustainable development, the ENA also engages in the “eco-responsible dismantling of aircraft”.
During a full session, participants will “remove oils, hydraulic circuits, motors, dismantle anything that contains contaminants” in the device, then sink it to the bottom of a lake in a safe manner. It then becomes a site for practicing diving. The ENA has just done it with a helicopter near Thetford Mines, and it is starting the same process again with a Challenger aircraft.
“We have to be careful of our planet, concludes Pascal Désilets. We only have one. The more we do, the better it is for us, our children and the next generation. »
Common vision
At the School of Aerospace Trades in Montreal, same thing. “On a regular basis, the programs we teach are reviewed by the Ministry,” says assistant director Katia Crasnich, who considers her establishment to be close to members of the industry.
PHOTO CHARLES WILLIAM PELLETIER, SPECIAL COLLABORATION
The School of Aerospace Trades of Montreal
“We wonder about the changes in engine, but also about the materials. Energy saving, aerodynamics, even drones come into play. It really is a rapidly evolving question. »
We are presented with projects that are really on the table and which are no longer just prototypes. It’s very exciting and rewarding.
Katia Crasnich, Deputy Director of the School of Aerospace Trades of Montreal
There is now a concern for ethics and environmental progress in aerospace, judge Mme Crasnich. “A few weeks ago, all trade schools were invited to a training day at Bombardier [pour parler] green shift and technological advances. »
In addition to adapting the content of the school program, the establishment wanted to green its building with lighting that consumes less. It immediately had a positive effect on the well-being of the people who frequent it, notes the deputy director.
“Whether it’s teachers or companies, we see the dedication… There is really something beautiful that is being done. We are looking to the future and the progression towards green energies. »