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GE opens $50m research and training centre

By CHRIS V PANGANIBAN DOHA: General Electric Company (GE) formally inaugurated its state-of-the-art $50m GE Advanced Technology and Research Centre (GEATRC) at the Qatar Science & Technology Park ( QSTP ) to showcase the company's commitment to innovation, localisation and technology transfer in the Middle East.

The Deputy Prime Minister and Chief of the Emiri Diwan H E Abdullah bin Hamad Al Attiyah was present at the opening with other top government officials and business executives including Dr Tidu Maini, Executive Chairman of QSTP , and Akbar Al Baker, Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Airways. Maini said in his keynote speech that the modern facility is a major research and training centre which is one of its kind outside the US that will encompass work from the mightiest engines that power super jumbo aircraft to the state-of-the -art diagnostics in cancer, a true homage and commitment to the power of research and technology by GE in Qatar.

"This is yet another example of how under the leadership of H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, with the support of leading Qatari government figures, QSTP is able to work with global corporations to create innovative partnerships in Qatar that support advanced technology and research," Maini said. The 20,000 square metre Advanced Technology and Research Center focuses on applied research and knowledge transfer in key areas that drive Qatar's social and economic growth including aviation, oil and gas, and healthcare. It will also deliver process and product enhancement for GE customers across the region.

Nabil Habayeb, President and CEO of GE Middle East, Africa & Turkey said GEATRC leverages the thought leadership of
GE highlighted by its four business divisions -- GE Global Research, GE Oil & Gas, GE Aviation and GE Healthcare.

"It is a strong demonstration of our long-term commitment to Qatar and the region to drive applied research, engineering and development, education and training in key growth sectors."

For his part, Al Baker said they are one of the primary beneficiaries of this training facility. "Our staff are among the first to undergo training ensuring that they are at the forefront of the latest training methods available, receiving instructions right here at the airline's hub, further cementing the airline's relationship with GE .

He added: "The GE 90 engine, the largest in the world, powers all of our Boeing 777 fleet of aircraft. The next-generation GEnx engines will power our Boeing 787 aircraft -- which we are proud to be the launch "customer of in the Middle East, when we take delivery of them next year."

Designed to encourage collaboration and promote knowledge sharing, GEATRC includes five classrooms, a 150-seat auditorium, 14 engine/tooling bays in a 2,600 square metre aircraft engine learning centre section, 490 square metre of lab space, 465 square metre of product display lobby, and a multi-media showcase and brand experience.

The opening of GEATRC is a significant leap in the company's growth outlook for the entire Middle East, where GE has a presence that spans more tahn eight decades.

In Qatar, GE has been providing advanced gas turbines, compressors and other equipment to support the natural gas and LNG sector for over 35 years.

© The Peninsula 2011