FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 14, 2026
BRIDGEPORT, W.Va. –Students, faculty, staff and industry partners gathered for Pierpont Community and Technical College’s Aviation Maintenance Technology Student Appreciation and Scholarship Luncheon on Thursday, May 7. During the event, 25 students were awarded more than $21,000 in scholarships to support fees associated with required certification exams through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
The funds awarded during the luncheon were raised through the college’s annual Aviation Maintenance Technology Appreciation Dinner held in March, demonstrating continued investment from the local aerospace community.
“The Foundation is proud to award more than $21,000 in scholarships today, helping students take an important step toward earning their FAA certifications,” said Kathy Hypes, Pierpont’s foundation director. “This achievement reflects the generosity and dedication of our industry and community partners, whose support makes these opportunities possible.”
Students completing Pierpont’s Aviation Maintenance Technology program have logged a significant amount of time in classroom and hangar instruction. Program Director Brad Gilbert spoke to the discipline required to reach this milestone.
“Today is about recognizing our students’ accomplishments — both in the classroom and in the shops,” said Gilbert. “Over the past 21 months, they have completed nearly 2,000 hours of rigorous instruction while balancing work, family and personal responsibilities. That level of discipline and determination is a significant achievement.”
The event also highlighted the critical role the program plays in addressing the current national technician shortage. Mike Genin, Director of Operations at MHIRJ Aviation, emphasized the importance of maintaining a local pipeline of skilled talent.
“I love seeing all of these young men and women enter this fantastic field,” said Genin. “There is a huge shortage in this industry right now, and I’m happy that every year our company can support this initiative to help these students enter the aviation workforce. It’s a big deal to show our support and do our part in it and keep these students local.”
The collaboration between the college and local employers remains a cornerstone of the program’s success. Interim Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs David Beighley noted that these partnerships are essential for student outcomes.
“The success of this program is made possible through strong collaboration between education and industry, and we are deeply grateful to the employers, donors, instructors and staff members who invest in our students’ futures,” said Beighley. “Together, we are preparing the next generation of highly skilled aviation maintenance professionals.”
To view more photos of the event, click here.
To learn more about Pierpont’s aviation maintenance technology program, visit Pierpont.edu or call (304) 367-4800.
Pierpont Community & Technical College provides accessible, responsive, and high‑quality education to students and businesses across North Central West Virginia. With a strong focus on career readiness and workforce development, Pierpont offers academic programs and industry‑aligned training that create clear pathways to employment. Through this work, the college helps students discover their path while supporting the region’s economic and workforce needs.
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