OUR HISTORY (cont.)

 

A Brief History of the Art Williams and Harry Wendt Aeronautical Engineering School:

 

This School was named after the pioneers of aviation in Guyana, Arthur James (Art) Williams and Herman Edgar (Harry) Wendt, both pilot-mechanics, who in the early 1930's laid the foundation for aviation in Guyana and by so doing, opened up much of the Interior for the first time.

 

The desire to further the good work of these two men was initially the concern of two prominent organizations in Guyana's modern aviation industry, Kayman Sankar Group of Companies and Correia Group of Companies. However, the task of administration was handed to the Aircraft Owners' Association of Guyana Inc. with the intention of offering its services to any and all subscribers of that Association. It proved its worth and set its future destination when it facilitated the first class of seven trainees to become fully licensed engineers. Assistance was provided by Mr. Jim Campbell of the British Executive Services Overseas [BESO) and Mr. William Cottrill of the Voluntary Services Overseas (VSO). This
initiation has evolved into the effective operation of one of the most dynamic aeronautical engineering schools in this part of the hemisphere. It is operated in accordance with the requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). The School offers a full time, three year Ab-Initio Programme which enables students to be able to apply for their Basic LWTR (Licence without Type Rating) Licence. Modular
courses are also being offered. These Courses are designed as a "Fast-Track" method of qualifying experienced mechanics to a recognised standard of academic achievement. The School has also established a Mechanical Log-Book system which is a record of an Engineer's experience. Also, the School is readily capable of offering customised courses. The School has established an alliance with the University of Guyana. Students, upon completing their three-year Ab-Initio Programme for Aircraft Engineer’s Licences, can now move on the University for a Diploma in Technology - Aeronautical Engineering. Arrangements are being worked out presently for the UG Degree in Technology - Aeronautical Engineering.

 

With the advent of the gradual phasing out of piston engines and the increase in turbines and the advanced technology that goes with it, the School is in the process of preparation, to meet those technological changes and educate its students accordingly. Human Factors Training has commenced in the first quarter of the year 2000. A package was purchased from the International Federation of Airworthiness called, "Engineering Solutions to Human Problems". This program features more than a decade of work in industries which must deal with major hazards as part of everyday life - aviation, offshore oil, railways, nuclear power, world-wide energy production and marine transport, among other areas. A training syllabus is being developed by the School and this course is now fully incorporated in its Ab-Initio Programme as well as being offered to the general public. The AWHWAES has already commenced training in the Caribbean (Caribbean Star Airlines) for this Module.

 

Since our existence, we have gained success in the CAA exams in both the Modular and Ab-Initio Programmes, thus being able to increase the compliment of Engineers in Guyana significantly. Our compliment of Instructors are Trained Engineers with University Degrees in Aeronautical Engineering, Electrical Engineering and experience in Aircraft Maintenance.