FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 11, 2025
Bridgeport, W.Va. – Pratt & Whitney Engine Services has donated $15,000 to the Pierpont Foundation to support students in Pierpont Community & Technical College’s Aviation Maintenance Technology program. The donation, presented during a check-signing ceremony on Nov. 10 at the Robert C. Byrd National Aerospace Education Center, will help cover FAA certification fees and provide scholarships for students pursuing careers in aviation.
The event, held inside the Aerospace Center’s hangar, brought together students, faculty, and representatives from both Pierpont and Pratt & Whitney. Nathan Weese, Facilities and Services Manager at Pratt & Whitney Engine Services and a member of Pierpont’s Board of Governors, signed the ceremonial check on behalf of the Foundation. John Cowan, General Manager, and Brian Bozarth, Finance Manager/Controller, also represented Pratt & Whitney at the event.
“This generous contribution from Pratt & Whitney helps remove barriers and impediments for our students,” said Dr. Michael Waide, Interim President of Pierpont. “The cost of credentialing exams can be a source of anxiety for students nearing graduation. This donation ensures that financial concerns won’t stand in the way of their success.”
The Pierpont Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides scholarships, emergency funding, and program support, will manage the gift. Foundation Director Kathy Hypes expressed gratitude for Pratt & Whitney’s long-standing partnership with the college. “Their continued generosity and commitment to our students will have a direct and lasting impact,” she said. “This donation empowers the next generation of skilled professionals in North Central West Virginia.”
Natalie Tennant, Chairperson of the Pierpont Foundation, emphasized the role of community and technical colleges in meeting workforce needs. “This is the perfect example of what a community and technical college is meant to do: serve the community, strengthen the economy, and prepare students for meaningful careers,” Tennant said. “We’re grateful to Pratt & Whitney for investing in our students and helping them take the next step.”
Cowan addressed students during the ceremony, highlighting Pratt & Whitney’s 55-year history in Bridgeport and its plans for continued growth. He spoke about the company’s need for skilled aviation technicians and encouraged students to consider careers with Pratt & Whitney, noting that the donation was intended to help them complete their training and certification.
Pierpont’s Aviation Maintenance Technology program has grown significantly over the past three decades, evolving alongside the region’s expanding aerospace sector. Program Director Brad Gilbert reflected on that growth. “We started with just 10 students,” Gilbert said. “Now, thanks to industry support and expanding opportunities, our enrollment continues to grow. We’re grateful for Pratt & Whitney’s contribution and look forward to continued collaboration.”
The program trains students in aircraft systems, diagnostics, and repair, preparing graduates for careers in airframe maintenance, avionics, and aviation operations.
“Community college education is one of the best-kept secrets in our state,” Waide said. “With generous public investment and affordable tuition, students can earn workforce credentials or begin their path toward a four-year degree. Pierpont.edu is a great place to start exploring all we have to offer.”
For more information about Pierpont’s programs, visit pierpont.edu.
The Pierpont Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the academic priorities of Pierpont Community & Technical College. Our mission is to develop relationships with donors to fund student scholarships, temporary emergency student funding, and academic programs at Pierpont Community & Technical College.
Pierpont Community & Technical College is dedicated to providing accessible, responsive, and quality education to students and businesses throughout North Central West Virginia. With a focus on career readiness and workforce development, Pierpont offers a wide range of academic programs and industry-focused training opportunities to support the region’s economic and workforce needs.
Pierpont Community & Technical College’s Aviation Maintenance Technology, A.A.S. program provides training in aircraft technology. Students learn to perform maintenance, remove and replace components, troubleshoot, and repair aircraft systems, while also developing plans to analyze and solve aircraft problems using approved maintenance materials. Upon completion, graduates can pursue a career in fields such as Airframe Maintenance Mechanic, Avionics Technician, and Aviation Maintenance Director.