Qantas signs agreement for engineering alliance

Engineering

The University of Adelaide and Qantas Airways have signed a Memorandum of Understanding that aims to provide benefits to both organisations through collaboration on engineering teaching and research.

The many potential benefits of the agreement include:

• the opportunity for Qantas to provide industry-specific curriculum advice to the University's Faculty of Engineering, Computer & Mathematical Sciences;
  
• guest lectures from Qantas, providing students in the University's engineering programs direct exposure to state-of-the-art aviation industry practice; and
  
• the undertaking of joint research projects.

"Our agreement with Qantas means that the University of Adelaide is engaging with one of the world's most successful airlines, to the mutual advantage of our students, staff, and the company," said the Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor James McWha.

"This alliance will further strengthen our degree programs in Avionics & Electronic Systems Engineering, Aerospace Engineering and other related degrees. It will provide even greater opportunities for students to receive a quality industry-relevant education in their chosen areas of study, as well as strengthening the industry relevance of our research programs.

"We are extremely pleased to have the support of Qantas through this collaborative arrangement, and we look forward to working with them," Professor McWha said.

Qantas Engineering Group General Manager Technical Services David Kelly said: "As part of our commitment to the industry, Qantas Engineering is launching a range of initiatives with tertiary institutions to ensure we maximise the professional capabilities of both groups. The University of Adelaide is a key institution to ensure the success of this program.

"By establishing a closer working relationship with the University of Adelaide, we will be able to deliver mutually beneficial outcomes," Mr Kelly said.

"This agreement is an outstanding example of universities and industry working together to identify and achieve common goals," said Professor Peter Dowd, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Computer & Mathematical Sciences.

"The level of industry involvement in the teaching and research programs in our Faculty is at an all-time high. This means we are able to conduct research that has a genuine impact on industry; and, we can educate young engineers who understand today's industry requirements, but who are also prepared for the challenges of tomorrow."

Story by David Ellis