HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – A Beechcraft Musketeer plane donated to the Christian County Chamber of Commerce has found its home with Gateway Academy students for hands on learning.
The donation to the chamber was made with the intention of increasing the capability of the aviation mechanics program in the community, according to a news release from the chamber. Efforts to secure a plane for students began a year ago. Shannon Lane, an Eagle Ambassador of the Military Affairs Committee made it a personal goal to advocate for additional resources for the Gateway Academy aviation mechanics program and was critical in facilitating the donation.
The plane was donated to the chamber by Kenneth Snell, a certified A&P mechanic and Fort Campbell retired Veteran. Snell and his family owned the plane for the last 22 years.
“Aviation mechanics continue to be in high demand in industries and the military. This donation continues to expand educational opportunities that our community’s children get to benefit from,” said Shannon. “Mr. Snell and I have a similar passion for seeing our community prosper and for its children to have the best opportunities to do the same.”
With help from the Hopkinsville Fire and Police departments, the plane was successfully unloaded and placed in in the Gateway Academy Classroom on Feb. 2, according to chamber president Taylor Hayes.
“We are excited to receive the plane on behalf of the Chamber and the Snell family,” said Penny Knight, Gateway Academy Principal. “We are always looking for ways to grow our programs for our students. With the addition of the plane, we will be able to continue to add invaluable skills for our students through our Aircraft Maintenance Program.”
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