February 2025, Manila, Philippines – Following the official visit by Prime Minister Hun Manet to Manila, CamTech University and WCC Aeronautical and Technological College (WCC-ATC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to explore the development of an Aviation Academy with aeronautical programs in Cambodia.
Leveraging WCC-ATC as part of World Citi Group with more than 50 years of industry experience and one of the largest aviation education institutions in the Philippines, the partnership aims to explore the feasibility of establishing aviation programs such as Aeronautical Engineering, Aircraft Maintenance Technology, and Tourism. These programs will be tailored to provide Cambodian students opportunities in the country’s growing aeronautical sector.
“With the upcoming opening of Techo International Airport, it is time to invest in further developing aviation-related talents in Cambodia. This initiative will help students from Phnom Penh and other provinces to have the options and opportunities to build skillsets for more technically demanding roles in Cambodia’s evolving aviation industry,” said Thierry Tea, Advisory Board Member of CamTech University.
Thierry Tea, who has served as CEO of Airbus Helicopters Philippines and Country Head for Airbus Philippines, has over 20 years of experience in aviation across France, Singapore, Hong Kong, and the Philippines. During this time, he developed aviation ventures and created over 600 jobs in Asia. Drawing on his experience, Thierry recognizes Cambodia’s need to develop a skilled aviation workforce to support its growing industry and infrastructure—an objective that aligns with CamTech University’s mission to grow STEM skills in Cambodia.
CamTech University, established in 2021, has been supported by some of Cambodia’s leading companies, including OCIC, Canadia Bank, ISI Group, and Chip Mong Group. As a STEM-focused institution, CamTech, led by President Dr. Sothy Khieng and Dean Dr. Rethy Chhem, develops local talent and offers programs in technology, digital skills, data science, engineering, and related fields to meet the growing demand for high-skilled professionals in Cambodia.
The partnership focuses on several key objectives, including:
- Creating Aviation Future Skills Jobs in Cambodia: By training local talent across various roles, from mechanics to engineers with advanced aeronautical degrees, the academy aims to reduce reliance on foreign expertise and provide employment opportunities.
- Supporting Cambodia’s Aviation Industry and the future growth of Techo International Airport: As the airport’s development continues over the next 30 years, the academy will ensure a sustainable talent pipeline to meet long-term industry needs.
- Developing STEM Skills for Cambodian Students: Through specialized programs, Cambodian students will gain critical expertise to compete globally and build meaningful careers in aviation.
Dr. Raymond Patrick Guico, President of WCC-ATC, highlighted the importance of the collaboration, stating, “Having trained tens of thousands of aviation professionals over the past few decades, we see great potential in Cambodia’s youth. Through this collaboration, we aim to equip them with the skills to thrive in an expanding aviation sector.”
This partnership reflects a shared commitment between the Cambodian and Philippine private sectors to strengthen business ties, foster workforce development, and support long-term economic growth in Cambodia’s aviation industry.
