Bell Textron Canada donates 1,800 aircraft components worth 6.2M CAD to Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies

Bell Textron Canada announced a donation of 1,800 aircraft components, valued at 6.2 million dollars CAD and including machined parts, sheet metal, acrylic plastics, electrical and mechanical parts, and hardware to the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies. The donation is set to significantly enhance SIIT's Aircraft Maintenance Engineering program, providing students with access to a diverse range of aircraft components for hands-on training and practical experience. The donated parts are comprised of surplus inventory from Bell which is obsolete with no potential rework or spares use on Bell’s end. 

Michael Nault, general manager of Bell Textron Canada, expressed his enthusiasm for the donation to SIIT, saying: "We are proud to support the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies and contribute to the development of the next generation of aviation professionals. This donation reflects our commitment to advancing education and skills within the aerospace industry and supporting Indigenous youth and communities in their pursuit of careers in aviation." 

Mark Pollard, dean of Trades & Industrial at SIIT commented: “Bell Textron Canada’s donation directly supports SIIT’s AME program, giving Indigenous students practical experience with real aircraft components. This donation strengthens our efforts to equip students with the skills they need to succeed in the aerospace industry and build rewarding careers."

The donated parts were delivered to SIIT in two shipments in October 2024 to ensure that SIIT has timely access to the components, facilitating seamless integration into their training programs.