The Office of Management and Enterprise Services recently partnered with the Gordon Cooper Technology Center (GCTC), which has campuses in Seminole and Shawnee, to enhance hands-on aviation training.

Students participating in GCTC’s Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) program at the Shawnee campus will benefit from a newly obtained Bell TH-57 helicopter, which will support learning by offering real-life applications to best prepare them for careers in aircraft maintenance fields.

OMES acquired the helicopter through its Federal Surplus program, which helps eligible Oklahoma organizations obtain excess federal assets at low costs to fulfill their missions. Valued at $1.2 million, the aircraft came from a naval base in Florida, and GCTC obtained it for a $5,000 mandatory federal fee. This is the second aircraft donation the Federal Surplus program has facilitated for a local technology center.

“All sorts of items come to the state through the Federal Surplus program, but we also work with our participating organizations like GCTC to build wish lists of specific things they’re looking for. That allows us to intentionally search the federal database for available items that match their needs,” said Barry Bornemann, Federal Surplus program coordinator.

“As a former Navy lieutenant and the son of a mechanic, I’m pleased to see this helicopter repurposed for practical learning that will support the next generation of aircraft mechanics in Oklahoma,” said Sen. Shane Jett, R-Shawnee. “The Federal Surplus program allows local organizations to get the equipment they need to better serve their communities at a fraction of the price. This partnership represents a win for taxpayers as well as GCTC’s students.”

GCTC’s FAA-certified AMT program provides students the practical training and education needed to become airframe and powerplant mechanics. The TH-57 helicopter will not be flown. However, its Rolls-Royce 250-C20 turboshaft engine, identical to those used in the AMT program’s curriculum, will allow students to observe a working helicopter engine and learn about its components and functions firsthand. General aviation classes, both for high school and adult students, will utilize the TH-57 to teach helicopter aerodynamics and flight controls, providing real-time troubleshooting opportunities.

“It’s incredible to see this hands-on opportunity come to Shawnee,” said Rep. Dell Kerbs, R-Shawnee, chair of the House Education Oversight Committee. “These kinds of partnerships are exactly what we need to ensure education remains career-focused. By equipping students with real-world skills, we’re not just preparing them for the workforce – we’re strengthening Oklahoma’s future.”

GCTC leadership has expressed immense gratitude for the aircraft, emphasizing the benefit it will have for the 100 students currently enrolled in the program.

“This acquisition is a tremendous asset for our AMT program,” said Julie McCormick, GCTC superintendent. “Having a real helicopter on-site will enhance training and engagement for our students, preparing them for successful careers as aviation maintenance technicians.”

For more information about access to the State and Federal Surplus programs, visit oklahoma.gov/ omes/