Inspiring the Next Generation of AMTs and Engineers Through Accurate Scale Aero Engine Models
- Joe Breitfeller
- Aug 22
- 3 min read
Aerospace and STEM educators are turning to accurate scale aero engine models to inspire future aviation maintenance technicians (AMTs), as the industry will require 710,000 new technicians to support the growing commercial fleet over the next 20 years.
(August 22, 2025) - According to the Boeing 2025 Pilot and Technician Outlook Report, the demand for qualified aircraft maintenance technicians (AMTs) is at an all-time high due to attrition, lack of training, and certifications challenges. Airlines and maintenance organizations face significant challenges to ensure their team members are well-trained and up to date with the latest regulations and safety standards. Over the next 20 years, Boeing projects that the aviation industry will require 710,000 new maintenance technicians to support the growing global commercial fleet and maintain safety standards.
To ensure a future pipeline of aviation maintenance technicians (AMTs), we believe that it is important to inspire young people at an early age. This is why Aerospace and STEM educators are turning to accurate scale aero engine models to spark interest in aviation careers. Since few young people will have access to an aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility to inspect a full-size jet engine, accurate and functional scale models can serve as a useful teaching tool.
For this sponsored post, our friends at Stirlingkit, a small team passionate about preserving mechanical heritage, have generously provided us with an aero engine model kit to review. The model we have reviewed is the SKYMECHMAN TRENT 900 LED Turbofan Engine Model building kit for youth. This model has been meticulously crafted based on original blueprints of the Rolls-Royce Trent 900 engine, a high-bypass turbofan produced by Rolls-Royce plc to power the Airbus A380.
Unboxing the Stirlingkit SKYMECHMAN Rolls-Royce TRENT 900 LED Turbofan Engine Model Kit
The model is nicely packaged in a sturdy box with a handle, making it perfect for personal use or as a thoughtful gift, while the parts are custom fitted on two foam trays. We were immediately impressed with the appearance of the components, which appear metallic, even though they have been 3D printed. This has been made possible thanks to the use of environmentally-friendly PLA metal-colored silk consumables. Unlike the traditional plastic injection-molded models, these precision parts don’t require trimming or painting and are ready to assemble right out of the box.
The 12-step instruction manual is clear and detailed, and assembly can be achieved in less than half an hour. This functional, transparent airplane turbo fan engine model features simulated lighting and a throttle lever for speed control, and the transparent outer shell allows you to observe the operational mechanics of the turbo fan engine. All the fan blades are motor-driven, creating a highly realistic demonstration. With exceptional attention to detail, the model is perfect for use as a teaching tool or for display.
The SKYMECHMAN TRENT 900 LED Turbofan Engine Model Building Kit retails for $49.99 and is suggested for youth aged 16+, but would also be suitable for younger children building the kit together with a parent or guardian. Customers can receive a 12% discount by using the Promo Code: breitflyte. The model we reviewed is USB powered and comes with a cradle that allows users to lift the engine off the base for closer inspection. In conclusion, we find that this model provides good value for money, is visually stunning, and would be a nice addition to any aviation enthusiast or ‘avgeek’ collection. For more information about, or to purchase Stirlingkit’s SKYMECHMAN TRENT 900 LED Turbofan Engine Model Kit, please click here.
Disclosure Statement: The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requires publishers to disclose when they post ‘sponsored’ content in which they have been directly paid or received something of value for their article or video. This article is a sponsored post.
Source(s): Boeing, Stirlingkit, Breitflyte Airline News
