Lockheed Martin has donated a Sikorsky S-76A helicopter to the Emil Buehler Aviation Institute at Broward College in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, which gives students pursuing careers in avionics and aviation maintenance valuable hands-on experience.
“The S-76A trainer is a fantastic addition to our avionics and aviation maintenance programs,” said Russell McCaffery, dean, Transportation Programs at Broward College. “Students will have another airframe available to them for avionics installation projects, and we are exceptionally grateful for the donation.”
Beginning in the 2021 fall semester, the non-flying trainer, valued at more than $500,000, will provide approximately 100 students in the Avionics and Airframe programs with an opportunity to gain first-hand knowledge in the inspection, maintenance, and repair of a fully rigged helicopter, including its electronic, mechanical, and hydraulic systems.
The trainer will be housed in the expanded Emil Buehler Aviation Hangar, which will open soon, according to college officials.
“Lockheed Martin and Broward College share a passion for training and readiness,” said Chauncey McIntosh, general manager and vice president, Lockheed Martin Training and Logistics Solutions. “This trainer will support students through their learning journeys by helping them gain valuable hands-on experience.”
Prior to its arrival on Judson A. Samuels South Campus in Pembroke Pines, March 26, 2021, the S-76A served as a trainer for commercial and military maintenance technicians at FlightSafety International, a subcontractor of Lockheed Martin.