A new partnership between Boeing Defence Australia and The Heights Technical College is set to strengthen South Australia’s defence industry by nurturing the next generation of aerospace and engineering professionals.

Boeing Defence Australia, a major employer in the local and global aerospace industry, is set to work with the Department of Education to design learning programs and workplace experiences required for students with their sights set on a career in the local defence industry.

The skills developed by the students at the College will be vital for workers at the Deep Maintenance and Modification Facility (DMMF) being built at Edinburgh.

Premier Peter Malinauskas explained the benefit of these skills for young people looking for careers.

“The opening of a massive new Defence aircraft facility at Edinburgh in 2026 is going to create high quality, long-term careers in the highly technical area of aeroskills,” said Premier Malinauskas.

“We desperately need young people with a desire to work on complex machinery to protect our nation.

“They can be assured they can gain this qualification while completing high school, and be perfectly placed to walk into a fulfilling career in a growth industry.”

Managing Director of Boeing Defence Australia, Amy List, said this agreement will give more young South Australians the opportunity to work at the cutting edge of aerospace.

“With one of the largest aircraft maintenance workforces in South Australia, focused particularly on the support of Royal Australian Air Force P-8A Poseidons, and with more than 30 aircraft technician roles to fill over the next two years, we rely on a pipeline of candidates who are equipped to support the frontline aircraft we maintain and upgrade for the Australian Defence Force,” said Ms List.

“The Heights will support the future growth of local aerospace companies like Boeing Defence Australia, and we thank the South Australian Government for the opportunity of being involved.”

The Heights Technical College, co-located with The Heights School at Modbury, is nearing completion and has been designed to mirror a professional workplace environment.

The Heights is one of five technical colleges being developed in the state, with locations at Findon and Tonsley also delivering defence industry career opportunities.

The hands-on, industry-informed approach of the technical colleges is designed to ensure students graduate with both the technical skills and practical experience needed to transition directly into the workforce.

Enrolments are now open for students in Years 9 and 10, with classes beginning in 2026.

Learn more about the Technical Colleges