NTPS Graduate Assistant Program

Established in 2007, the NTPS Flight Test Engineer (FTE) GA program was launched to produce well-rounded FTE graduates with industry leading education and training coupled with real-world FTE experience. During this 3 year FTE scholarship program, GAs have the opportunity to pursue a Professional Course FTE certificate, Masters Degree in Flight Test Engineering and obtain 3 years of practical FTE experience. NTPS prides itself in enabling individuals in this program to achieve FTE certification and break into the Flight Test industry.

The GA program is unique across the industry as a means for passionate individuals to obtain formal test pilot school qualifications outside of military service and is a key way in which the NTPS supports the development of professionals in the flight test and wider aviation industry.

Curriculum Support

GAs are essential to the core business and day-to-day success of NTPS operations. GAs become proficient with NTPS support equipment and facilities such as simulators, telemetry, Uncrewed Aerial Systems and flight test instrumentation, and support curriculum activities through provision of these services. Additionally, GAs will often fly aboard rotary and fixed wing aircraft for functional check flights, instrumentation operation, system development, student assistance or professional development.

Research and Development

Another key aspect to GA utilization is research and development. As a test pilot school with a broad and varied aircraft fleet, the NTPS is positioned well to support industry through research and development of emerging technologies or innovative use of existing technologies as applied to flight test or aviation activities. GAs are the prime workforce to conduct these activities, which further hones essential design, test management, planning, execution and reporting skills.

Alumni

Graduates of the GA program are well-rounded testers with a combination of strong academic understanding and practical experience, thus are highly regarded when entering the workforce after completion of the program.

GA Application

GA program applications are open early-December until mid-January each year, usually for selection of two candidates for a June and December start date of the following calendar year. Generally, applicants should be within 0-5yrs of graduation from a science or engineering degree, with experience in design, manufacture or maintenance and a strong passion to be an FTE. Applicants should be skilled in teamwork, while also being self-motivated, and have exceptional verbal and writing skills.

Applications are welcomed from domestic and international candidates, noting requirements for degree accreditation checks and ITAR regulations.

Applications are CLOSED and usually open in late December/early January