FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 2, 2026
FAIRMONT, W.Va. – Pierpont Community & Technical College is proud to announce that Jahkari Mesidor, a student in the Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) program, has been named West Virginia’s 2026 New Century Workforce Pathway Scholar. Mesidor earned the highest score in the state in Phi Theta Kappa’s fall scholarship competition, placing him among an elite group of students recognized nationwide for academic achievement, leadership and service.
The New Century Workforce Pathway Scholarship is sponsored by the Coca-Cola Foundation with additional support from Phi Theta Kappa. Each year, only one student from each state is selected for the award. Mesidor will receive a $1,500 scholarship and will be recognized during the College Presidents and New Century Scholars Recognition Luncheon at PTK Catalyst on March 27 in Baltimore.
Mesidor, who will graduate in May, said the recognition was far bigger than he anticipated. “I had no clue how big this award really was,” Mesidor said. “Seeing that I earned the highest score in the state was unbelievable. This scholarship will help me pay for my next aviation license test and continue moving toward my goals.” Mesidor hopes to begin his career with Pratt & Whitney, where he recently completed an interview, and plans to pursue an engineering degree through employer‑supported tuition assistance.
Throughout his time at Pierpont, Mesidor has distinguished himself academically and personally. He maintains a 4.0 GPA, is a member of Phi Theta Kappa and supports fellow students through peer tutoring, helping many prepare for and pass their certification exams. He credits Aviation Maintenance Technology instructor and advisor Mr. Stricklin with playing a significant role in his success, noting that he “has given me every opportunity to become the best mechanic I can be.”
Pierpont Interim President Dr. Michael Waide said Mesidor embodies the qualities Pierpont values most in its students. “Jahkari represents exactly what we strive for at Pierpont — students who work hard, support one another and take pride in learning a skill that strengthens our workforce and our state,” Waide said. “His accomplishments reflect not only his dedication, but the quality of our aviation program and the faculty who guide our students every day. We are extremely proud of him, and we look forward to seeing where his career takes him.”
Jennifer Ellison, interim dean of the School of General Education and Professional Studies and Phi Theta Kappa co-advisor for the Alpha Tau Pi Chapter, said Mesidor demonstrates the values PTK seeks to develop in students. “Phi Theta Kappa members are leaders in and out of the classroom, and Jahkari is a shining example of that,” Ellison said. “His academic excellence, his willingness to mentor peers and his commitment to the aviation profession truly set him apart. We are proud to celebrate his achievements and thrilled to see him recognized at the national level.”
Mesidor’s achievement underscores the impact of Phi Theta Kappa and the strength of Pierpont’s Aviation Maintenance Technology program, which together prepare students to excel academically and enter high‑demand careers with confidence.
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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