Duncan Loans Jet Engine to High School Aviation Program

Looking to help foster the next generation of aircraft technicians, Duncan Aviation has placed a Honeywell TFE731 engine on permanent loan to the aviation program at Lincoln North Star High School, near the MRO’s Nebraska headquarters.

The engine—which powers a variety of legacy business aircraft, including the Learjet 70/75, Dassault Falcon 900, and Gulfstream G150—was originally intended to be used as a training aid for the company’s apprentice program at its Provo, Utah location. After a shift in workforce development strategy at that location, the engine became surplus. Rather than let it go unused, Duncan’s technical education center team found a new home for the engine—one where it will be used to help the local community.

“We’ve always believed in using real-world equipment to build confidence and competence in our technicians,” said Duncan executive v-p and COO Kasey Harwick. “When this engine no longer had a home internally, it made perfect sense to extend that same opportunity to students at Lincoln North Star.”

“We are so lucky,” said Amanda Woodward, aviation and technical education teacher at Lincoln North Star. “Our program is the only public school in the country with this type of equipment and opportunity.”

The school’s aviation program has been recognized for its commitment to preparing students for aviation careers through classroom instruction and practical experience, and having a jet engine will expand that. “It’s no longer just a photo on a slideshow; it’s tangible,” said Woodward. “This gives them further opportunity to use real tools and truly explore whether a career in aviation maintenance is the right fit.”

Duncan Aviation has long supported the program through mentorship, facility tours, and educational partnerships, helping build a skilled workforce that ensures high-quality maintenance support for aircraft operators in the future.