Abstract This work presents a description of activities and results achieved from the implementation of a "hands-on" training program in the field of manufacturing of fiber reinforced composite materials for aerospace applications within the framework of the Fulbright Specialist program. The host institution for the program was the Universidad del Valle in Cali, Colombia and the Specialist was Dr. Ronald Sterkenburg from Purdue University. The implemented process to fulfill the defined objectives is shown as well as some of the work developed after the specialist visit, which is related to what was called project AVE. Finally, some general conclusions were drawn along with the lessons learned and necessities to continue working in the area.