FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 27, 2026
FAIRMONT, W.Va. – Pierpont Community & Technical College kicked off its first in a series of Aviation Technology Workshops today, welcoming 40 middle school students from Fairmont Catholic Elementary School to the RCB National Aerospace Center. The ten‑session workshop series, funded through a West Virginia Perkins Grant, is designed to expand STEM and career‑exploration opportunities for underserved students in north central West Virginia.
Fridays through May 8, area middle schoolers will visit Pierpont’s aviation facilities to explore aircraft technology, try flight simulators, complete sheet‑metal projects and learn about career pathways in a rapidly growing industry.
“These workshops give students early exposure to aviation and help them think about what’s possible for their future,” said Dr. Brad Gilbert, Director of Aviation Technology at Pierpont. “When the students arrived today, only one out of 40 had ever been around an aircraft. Our goal is to open their eyes to what Pierpont offers and spark interest in aviation careers that are in high demand both locally and nationwide.”
Students spent the morning rotating through aviation stations where they applied concepts directly through hands‑on projects and simulator time.
“It’s very nice for our students to have the opportunity to explore different career paths,” said Joann Gilbert, Principal of Fairmont Catholic Elementary School. “They were excited to work on the sheet‑metal project and to see the simulators in action. This gives them an understanding of what education and career opportunities are available right here in our region.”
Current Pierpont Aviation Maintenance Technology student Alia Callison assisted with the workshop and said the experience is especially meaningful for younger learners.
“What excites me most is seeing the look on the students’ faces when they get to apply what they’re learning,” Callison said. “You can explain something all day, but until they get hands‑on experience, they don’t really understand the process. It’s great to see that connection happen.”
Callison also shared how important representation is in the aviation field. “A lot of my family has been in aviation, and it’s always excited me. Being a woman in aviation, I want to help break social norms. My advice to women is to step out of your comfort zone. Don’t be afraid. It may be a male‑dominated field, but women are here, the industry is growing, and the opportunities are incredible.”
Dr. Gilbert said the workshops were designed to support both the aviation industry and the region’s workforce needs.
“The middle‑school years are a formative time,” he said. “With aviation expanding in West Virginia, the demand for aviation technicians is tremendous. Thanks to this grant, we’re able to provide meaningful exposure to these careers and expect to welcome about 400 students through the program.”
The next workshop in the series will take place Friday, March 6, with students from Barrackville Elementary School.
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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.
Media Contact:
Stefanie Moore
Pierpont Community & Technical College
Office of Marketing and Communications
communications@pierpont.edu