FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 11, 2024
As a new Legislature and Administration prepare to assume leadership
in January, Pierpont Community & Technical remains dedicated to the transformative
expansion of Pierpont’s Aviation Maintenance Technician Program. Supported by $25
million in state funding, a new 70,000-square-foot teaching facility and hangar would be
constructed at the North Central West Virginia Airport. This investment reflects West
Virginia’s commitment and Pierpont’s dedication to equipping students with the skills they
need to succeed while addressing the workforce demands of the local aerospace industry.
To meet the growing demands of the aviation industry, Pierpont previously expanded its
enrollment capacity to 130 students. Once complete, the new facility will increase the
program’s capacity from 130 to 200 students. This expansion will help meet the growing
demand for trained aviation maintenance technicians in North Central West Virginia and
beyond, filling critical positions at North Central West Virginia Airport and supporting the
region’s economic development. Pierpont’s Aviation Maintenance program already boasts
a 100% job placement rate, demonstrating the program’s strength in preparing graduates
for rewarding careers in aerospace.
Pierpont offers one-year certificate degrees in airframe and power systems and a two-year
associate degree in aviation maintenance technology. These programs are designed to
prepare students to enter the workforce quickly, helping them gain high-demand skills and
secure stable, well-paying jobs. According to WV Workforce data, the growth rate for this
industry in north central WV is 1.61%; national data reflect a 5.60% job growth rate.
The College expresses its deepest gratitude to Governor Justice and the West Virginia
Legislature for their steadfast support of workforce development in North Central West
Virginia. Their investment in Pierpont’s Aviation Maintenance program underscores the
state’s commitment to creating opportunities for residents and advancing the region’s
economy.
Pierpont looks forward to working with the Economic Development Authority’s (EDA), who
received the funds for construction of the new facility, in implementing and completing the
project and expresses gratitude to Pierpont’s Board of Governors for their continued
advocacy and vision in shaping educational programs that meet community and industry
needs.
“The expansion of our Aviation Maintenance Technician Program is more than just a new
building—it’s a promise to our students, our community, and our local businesses,” said Dr.
Michael Waide, Provost for Pierpont. “We’re proud to work with state leaders, industry
partners, and our Board of Governors to create opportunities that transform lives, support
our neighbors, and fuel the economic growth of our region.”
Under the direction of Pierpont’s Board of Governors, program leaders and our enrollment
management team are exploring ways to expand enrollment and completion while awaiting
the completion of the new training facility. Chair Hinkle of Pierpont’s Board of Governors
stated, “Pierpont’s new state-of-the-art facility will enable us to expand our Aviation
Maintenance program, equipping more skilled graduates to meet the growing demands of
West Virginia’s thriving aviation industry.”
In addition to its innovative curriculum and strong industry partnerships, Pierpont
collaborates with organizations that provide hands-on training or apprenticeships and offer
scholarships to make education more accessible to students. These partnerships help
reduce financial barriers, ensuring that more residents of North Central West Virginia can
take advantage of this growing program and provide real-world experiences for our
students.
With the strong backing of state and local leaders, Pierpont is not only responding to the
current needs of the aerospace industry but also supporting the groundwork for long-term
growth and success in the region.
For more information about Pierpont’s Aviation Maintenance Technician Program and other
workforce development initiatives, please visit www.pierpont.edu or contact the Office of
the President at president@pierpont.edu.
About Pierpont Community & Technical College:
Pierpont Community & Technical College serves North Central West Virginia by offering
high-quality, affordable education that prepares students for today’s workforce. Through
programs emphasizing hands-on training and industry partnerships, Pierpont is dedicated
to advancing the lives of West Virginia residents and driving regional economic
development.