FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 9, 2026
BRIDGEPORT, W.Va. – Pierpont Community & Technical College’s Aviation Technology program has received a significant equipment donation that will enhance hands-on training for future aircraft maintenance technicians. NetJets Aviation has donated an unserviceable Pratt & Whitney Canada PW306C (ESN PCE‑CG0183) turbofan engine to the Pierpont Foundation to support instruction at the Robert C. Byrd National Aerospace Education Center in Bridgeport.
The donation was made possible through the direct involvement of three members of the National Aerospace Education Center Advisory Board: NetJets, Engine and Airframe Services Worldwide (EASW), and Northstar. The idea originated during discussions at advisory board meetings, reflecting the strong industry collaboration that supports the college’s aviation programs.
Northstar contributed the engine stand and storage crate used for transport and long-term housing. EASW provided the logistics and manpower required to transport the engine and secure it in its storage container after installation. Their support ensured the engine arrived safely and was immediately ready for instructional use.
“This remarkable contribution holds significant value to our program and will provide our students with invaluable, hands-on experience as they prepare for careers as certified aircraft maintenance technicians,” said Dr. Brad Gilbert, Director of Aviation Technology at Pierpont. “NetJets’ commitment to developing the next generation of skilled technicians exemplifies the type of collaboration that strengthens our industry and helps address the nationwide shortage of qualified aircraft maintenance professionals.”
Brian Reed, director of propulsion systems for NetJets Aviation, emphasized the shared strength of the partnership.
“NetJets is proud to have partnered with Pierpont Community and Technical College for this engine donation to grow their aviation program. As a large fractional aviation company, we rely heavily on trained Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) technicians to support our business operations. This donation benefits both organizations as Pierpont can use it to train the next generation of A&P technicians, some of whom may ultimately work on NetJets engines after graduation. For me personally, the opportunity to donate this engine and being onsite to witness the handover to the college and students is a major highlight in my professional aviation career,” Reed said.
Clint Shaw, site manager for propulsion systems at NetJets, spoke to the personal significance of facilitating the donation as both an advisory board member and an alumnus.
“As a member of the National Aerospace Education Center Advisory Board and a NetJets employee, I was able to see the needs of the school and fill those needs with a NetJets turbofan engine. This couldn’t have been possible without the support of my leadership team, and I can’t thank them enough. As a graduate of the Aviation Maintenance Technology program, this was a full-circle moment. It’s a great feeling to give back to the school that has given so much to me,” Shaw said.
The collaboration demonstrates how strong industry partnerships and advisory board leadership help prepare students for high-demand aviation careers.
To learn more about Pierpont’s Aviation Maintenance Technology program and the opportunities it offers future technicians, 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 student emergency funding, and the 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.