Thielert Aircraft Engines GmbH, the leading manufacturer of kerosene piston engines for General Aviation, is awarding this year for the first time the "Thielert Engine Award" for outstanding student degree theses to the Faculty of Process Engineering, Energy and Mechanical Systems (Laboratory for Piston Engines and Calibration) of the Cologne University of Applied Sciences.

The "Thielert Engine Award" is intended to motivate young people to tackle technical challenges, as well as their creative and professional solution. "As a manufacturer of innovative aircraft engines, we know how important it is to plan for the future and break new ground. As a young company, we benefit above all in the area of research and development from the commitment and new ideas of motivated and qualified graduates. For this reason, it is important to us that we acknowledge and support young people who have this potential," said CEO Frank Thielert.

The two best degree theses will be honored in early December 2007 during the "Engine Colloquium" at the Cologne University of Applied Sciences, with two prizes in the amounts of 2,000 Euros and 1,000 Euros, respectively. In addition, Thielert is supporting the entire Colloquium as lead sponsor.

"Through the Thielert Engine Award, Thielert has created an important incentive for the next generation of engineers to make outstanding achievements in the area of engine technology. I am extremely pleased that it was possible to acquire this award of sponsorship for the students of the Cologne University of Applied Sciences, which in no small measure also demonstrates our good collaboration with industry," said Prof. Dr. (Eng.) Norbert Deussen, Head of the Laboratory for Piston Engines and Calibration.