AMERICUS, GA – The decision to change career paths and enroll in the aviation maintenance program at South Georgia Technical College (SGTC) proved to be life-changing for Chandler Holloway, a SGTC Aircraft Structural Technology graduate, who has built a successful 15-year career with Gulfstream Aerospace in Savannah and now serves as a Customer Delivery Manager for one of the world's premier aircraft manufacturers.
After graduating from Southland Academy, the alumnus initially enrolled at Georgia Southwestern State University to pursue a business degree. However, during a time when job opportunities were limited, he began looking for a career field that offered greater stability and long-term growth. It was his grandfather, Raymond Holt, Academic Dean at South Georgia Tech, who encouraged him to consider looking into the aviation maintenance programs and the opportunities available through South Georgia Technical College.
"I began my college journey at Georgia Southwestern pursuing a business degree during a time when job opportunities were limited," he recalled. "Recognizing the need for a more practical and in-demand career path, my grandfather encouraged me to explore the aircraft structural maintenance program at South Georgia Technical College. That decision proved pivotal."
Holloway credits the faculty and staff at SGTC with preparing him not only with the technical knowledge needed to succeed in the aviation industry, but also with the discipline and work ethic necessary for a long and rewarding career.
"The instructors at SGTC were exceptional—deeply committed to their craft and to their students' success," he said. "They instilled not only technical expertise but also the discipline, work ethic, and pride required to build a lasting career in the aviation field."
Immediately after graduating from SGTC, Holloway joined Gulfstream Aerospace as an Operations Trainee working on G450 flight control surfaces. Through hard work, continuous learning, and guidance from experienced mentors, he steadily climbed the ranks over the next decade and a half.
During his career, Chandler Holloway gained hands-on experience across several Gulfstream aircraft platforms, including the G450, G500, and G600, working in both structures and systems. He later contributed to the launch of the G700 and G800 programs, expanding his expertise into avionics leadership and helping guide teams responsible for delivering world-class aircraft.
"Through dedication, continuous learning, and mentorship from outstanding leaders, I advanced from an entry-level trainee into a trusted leader responsible for delivering exceptional aircraft and customer experiences," explained Holloway.
Today, as a Customer Delivery Manager, he serves as the primary point of contact for aircraft owners and flight crews throughout the aircraft completion process. His responsibilities include building strong customer relationships, guiding key decisions, managing project requirements, and providing consistent communication throughout the completion lifecycle.
Holloway also leads customers through critical milestones such as inspections, acceptance flights, and final aircraft delivery, ensuring a seamless transition into service. In addition, he oversees aircraft production and completion activities with a focus on quality, regulatory compliance, and on-time delivery while actively participating in test and acceptance flights to validate performance and functionality.
Reflecting on his success, Chandler Holloway is quick to acknowledge those who helped shape his journey.
"I would not be in the position I am today without the guidance and support of a few incredible individuals," he said. "First and foremost, I owe a great deal of gratitude to my grandfather, Raymond Holt. His connection to South Georgia Technical College and his impact on so many lives inspired me to pursue this path, and his encouragement ultimately set me on the course that shaped my career."
Holloway also expressed appreciation for the Gulfstream team members who invested in his development during the early years of his career.
"I am deeply appreciative of the first individuals who trained me across multiple roles—Kyle Coleman, Marc Guadagno, Tyler Crawford, and Kelon Keane. Their expertise, professionalism, and commitment to developing others left a lasting impression on me. They not only taught me the technical aspects of the job but also set the standard for excellence and mentorship, playing a significant role in my growth and success in aviation."
South Georgia Technical College officials say stories like Holloway’s demonstrate the value of technical education and the opportunities available to students who choose high-demand career pathways. From the classroom and hangar labs at SGTC to a leadership position with Gulfstream Aerospace, his journey serves as an example of how determination, quality training, and the support of dedicated mentors can help students achieve extraordinary success.
For students considering a future in aviation, Holloway offers simple advice: embrace the opportunity, work hard, and never stop learning. The foundation built at South Georgia Technical College can open doors to a rewarding career and create lifelong opportunities.
For more information about the aircraft structural, aviation maintenance or avionics programs at South Georgia Technical College contact the admissions department at 229-931-2299 or reach out to aviation maintenance instructor Victoria Herron at vherron@southgatech.edu, aircraft structural instructor Jason Wisham at jwisham2@southgatech.edu or avionics instructor Charles Christmas at cchristmas@southgatech.edu.
SGTC is currently enrolling students for Fall Semester. Classes begin August 17th. Students can apply online at www.southgatech.edu and click on the Apply Now button at the top of the homepage. In-person registration for Fall Semester is set for Tuesday, June 23rd and August 13th. Financial aid is available.
South Georgia Technical College is one of only two technical colleges in Georgia with on-campus housing. SGTC offers students the complete college experience with nationally ranked academics, student activities, and intercollegiate athletics. SGTC offers over 200 associate degree, diploma, and technical certificate of credit programs to choose from.
The Gulfstream Fleet