OMES partners with Gordon Cooper Technology Center to benefit aviation maintenance program
By Rowan Miller
Gordon Cooper Technology Center students and staff observe their new helicopter, acquired through the Oklahoma Federal Surplus program.
OKLAHOMA CITY – The Office of Management and Enterprise Services recently partnered with the Gordon Cooper Technology Center (GCTC) in Shawnee, Oklahoma, to enhance hands-on aviation training. Students participating in GCTC’s Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) program will benefit from a newly obtained Bell TH-57 helicopter, which will support learning by offering real-life application 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,” said Barry Bornemann, Federal Surplus program coordinator. “That allows us to intentionally search the federal database for available items that match their needs.”
“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, please visit the OMES website.
OMES Media Contact
Christa Helfrey
Christa.Helfrey@omes.ok.gov
Gordon Cooper Technology Center Media Contact
Matt Stephens
matts@gctech.edu
405-273-7493, ext. 2313
About OMES
The Office of Management and Enterprise Services provides financial, property, purchasing, human resources and information technology services to all state agencies, and assists the Governor’s Office with budgetary policy matters. Our mission: Provide excellent service, expert guidance and continuous improvement in support of our partners’ goals. For more information, visit oklahoma.gov/omes.
About GCTC
Gordon Cooper Technology Center, located in Shawnee, Oklahoma, is a public career and technology education center serving the east-central Oklahoma area. With a mission to provide high-quality career and technical education, GCTC offers 23 full-time programs to approximately 1,000 high school and adult students annually and serves thousands more through short-term classes and customized training. For more information, visit gctech.edu.
