Southwest Airlines recently donated a CFM56-3B1 high-bypass turbofan aircraft engine worth approximately $100,000.00 to Augusta Technical College’s Aviation Training Center.  This engine will provide students with advanced training in troubleshooting, repairing, and maintaining industry-grade aviation equipment.

The donation of the turbofan engine will further Augusta Technical College’s ability to prepare students for a career in the field of Aviation Maintenance Technology.

It is the College’s first turbofan engine, and it will be an asset to our program.  Along with Augusta Tech curriculum and the Aerosim Boeing 737NG Virtual Maintenance Trainer that the Aviation Maintenance Technology students currently use in the program, the engine will further enhance the student’s learning experience by giving them additional real-world knowledge and hands-on training.  Upon graduation from Augusta Tech’s program, students will be even more prepared to work for a major airline.

The Aviation Training Center is located at the McDuffie Regional Airport in Thomson, adjacent to the McDuffie County Campus of Augusta Technical College.  The Aviation Training Center is approximately 6,700 square feet with two classrooms and two labs for Aviation Maintenance Technology.  The facility houses all of the equipment and materials necessary to satisfy FAA requirements for certification of the program, including four complete aircraft.