Advanced training in human resources and technology

More broadly, Chile also benefits from the creation of jobs at ALMA, where over 80% of observatory staff is Chilean. Many of the positions require advanced technical and professional qualifications, and as a result, valuable training and on-the-job learning take place at the observatory.

ALMA technicians in maintenance operations. © Pablo Bello (ESO/NAOJ/NRAO)

Like many international observatories in Chile, ALMA has become a true school of engineering and science that has transferred advanced technology and knowledge to the country in different ways. For example, several Chilean members of this observatory have been so successful that they have been hired by other international companies, as well as other astronomical observatories.

Maintenance technicians, an antenna and a man lift. © ALMA (ESO/NAOJ/NRAO)

Some maintenance work being carried out on one of ALMA’s antennas, coincidentally helping also to illustrate the size of these telescopes. There are 66 in total, with the dishes on 54 of them measuring 12 meters in diameter, and the rest, 7 meters. © Enrico Sacchetti (ESO)