Champion Aerospace, a manufacturer of aerospace ignition and power systems based in Liberty, SC, donated $50,000 to the Aircraft Maintenance Technology (AMT) program at Greenville Technical College, to allow for expansion and upgrading of the program.

The AMT program is preparing for a 2018 move to a new facility at the South Carolina Technology and Aviation Center (SCTAC) to be shared with the South Carolina Army National Guard. In the 95,000-square foot building, GTC has dedicated library, classroom, office, and hangar space and use of additional space during the week, when the Guard is not using the building.

In recognition of the gift, a classroom will be named the Champion Aerospace Ignition Classroom, a space where students will learn the skills to work on aircraft ignition and power generation systems. Champion has given parts and supplies to the program over a number of years, and an engine donated several years ago will be displayed in the new facility.

“We are grateful for Champion’s ongoing support of the Aircraft Maintenance Technology program,” said Dr. Keith Miller, president of Greenville Technical College. “When our area’s strongest employers play an active role in creating the workforce of the future, the students, the college, and the community benefit.” 

“This monetary gift signals and solidifies Champion’s continued partnership and support to Greenville Technical College and the AMT Program’s mission to provide a highly skilled and ready workforce to support the ever-changing, challenging and exciting aerospace industry,” said Ross Hartney, Champion Aerospace business unit manager.  “The new facility provides an incredible capability and capacity upgrade that will drive both students and faculty to come to work each day with great pride and enthusiasm. Champion Aerospace is proud to support the AMT program at Greenville Tech.”