Surplus Success Story: Chattahoochee Technical College

Posted: 08/29/2025
By: Madeline Shank, DOAS Communications
For over two decades, Chattahoochee Technical College has been an active and proud participant in the DOAS Surplus Property Program. The college first learned about the program through a valuable connection with the Museum of Flight at Paulding County Airport, and since then, it has become a long-term beneficiary of both state and federal surplus property.
Most recently, the Aviation Maintenance program at Chattahoochee Technical College received a remarkable addition to its training fleet: a TH-57B Bell Ranger 206 SN 161696 Helicopter. This addition is more than just a piece of equipment; it represents a major enhancement to the college’s curriculum and student experience.
Thanks to the DOAS Surplus Property Program, students can now gain real-world experience not only with fixed-wing aircraft but also with rotary-wing systems. The helicopter allows students to observe and participate in the unique operational and maintenance aspects of rotorcraft. They are taught how to start and run a helicopter, enabling them to grasp the critical differences between fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft, knowledge that is essential for a well-rounded aviation maintenance education.
This hands-on experience provides a competitive edge for students entering the workforce and is a direct result of the resources made available through the DOAS Surplus Property Program.
Chattahoochee Technical College is grateful for the ongoing partnership and encourages other eligible institutions and organizations to explore the vast opportunities the Surplus Property Program offers. For Chattahoochee Tech, it’s not just about acquiring surplus—it’s about investing in the future of skilled aviation professionals.