Mueller College in Rothwell is nearing the end of another successful plane build.
The school’s aviation department provides learning opportunities for students interested in a career in STEM and aerospace. The school is part of the Aerospace Gateway to Industry Schools program and this is their third plane build project.
It began when teacher Anthony Banks set his sights on building a plane in 2020.
“I’d always wanted to build a plane,” Anthony said. “We got involved in a project run by Sport Aircraft Association of Australia and this allowed us to be one of four schools working together to build a Van’s RV-12. We built the left wing, with other schools around Australia building different parts. The plane was assembled in New South Wales and it is now flying.”
While wondering what to do to keep the momentum going with the students, the school was given an older plane kit from another school. Working on this kit tested the students’ build skills even further.
A donation then allowed them to invest in an ICP Savannah S kit.
Exciting Progress on the ICP Savannah Plane Build and STEM Opportunities
“The Savannah kit arrived in April 2023,” Anthony said. “After months of building, we’ve just had it painted.
“We took students into Alliance Airlines for two days where they were involved in the preparation, priming and painting in the Alliance paint booth.
“Alliance’s support and sponsorship has been incredible.
“There are a few finishing touches left to be done, but it should be flying by the end of the year.”
The plane needs to fly for 25 hours to obtain certification. One of the build mentors will be the test pilot and it will take off from Redcliffe Airport.
“So many relationships come together to make these projects successful,” Anthony said. “We’re thankful for our build mentors and for the industry support we receive. There are so many people to thank.
“The aviation industry is all about the power of the network.”
Mueller’s strong industry network is not only helpful for the school build projects, but the valuable connections allow students to have opportunities beyond the classroom, with many going into aerospace careers.
You can follow the progress of the Savannah build and future projects at their official Facebook page.
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