Cannot comment on whether these findings are true or not but we are in for problems with aircraft maintenance in the near future.
Due to the changes with the JAR licencing system and the addition of some of the electrical responsibility being transferred to A + C (B1) engineers we are creating a situation whereby we are asking engineers to work in a field which is more a specilisation of the avionics engineer. This is further compounded when you realise that this qualification can be gained at the minute by passing a series of multi-choice examinations with current questions readily available and no requirement for any oral examination or proof of practical ability.
We are heading down a road where we will soon have an engineering work force which will no longer have trade seperation ie A+C and Avionics but will eventially have a system similar to the american A+P system where the engineer is responsible for all aspects of the aircraft systems.
With the current system we have engineers who are highly skilled and trained in airframe and engine systems and another group also highly trained and skilled in electrical and avionic systems. This has the benefit of trade specialisation and the benefits this provides. If this changes you will have an engineer who is an "expert" in everything, but in reality will have his skills and experience in one dicipline or the other and a basic understanding of the other. This in my opinion is a recipe for mistakes and is a step backwards.
