Boeing has made a significant shift in its engineering recruitment strategy, choosing to hire more engineers in India than in China. This change comes amid growing tensions between the United States and China, prompting Boeing to reduce its reliance on Chinese expertise.
According to a report by the South China Morning Post, Boeing is hiring nearly 20 times more engineers in India than in China. As of July 31, Boeing had 83 job openings in India, with 58 of them dedicated to engineering positions, while there were only five job openings in China, three of which were in engineering.
This shift is quite significant considering Boeing’s historical ties to Chinese talent. The company’s first aeronautical engineer, Wong Tsu, was born in Beijing and played a crucial role in the design of Boeing’s first successful aircraft, the Model C naval training seaplane.
Despite Boeing’s long-standing relationship with China, recent events such as the grounding of the 737 Max fleet and safety concerns have strained their ties with the country. This has led Boeing to focus more on India, a country with a growing aviation market and a pool of engineering talent.
Boeing’s increased focus on India is part of a broader strategy to reduce dependence on China while tapping into India’s engineering capabilities. The company has made significant investments in India, including the inauguration of its largest facility outside the US in Bengaluru and plans to establish a new logistics center in the country.
India’s domestic air traffic is projected to have the highest growth rate globally for the next two decades, making it an attractive market for Boeing. Indian airlines are expected to need over 2,200 new aircraft in the coming years, presenting growth opportunities for Boeing.
Overall, Boeing’s strategic shift towards India reflects the changing dynamics in the aviation industry and the company’s efforts to adapt to evolving geopolitical challenges. By focusing on India’s engineering talent and growing market, Boeing aims to strengthen its position in the region and reduce its dependence on China.