CLARKSBURG, W.Va. — After a period of halted progress, the construction of a new, expanded facility for Pierpont Community & Technical College’s Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) program is back on track. The project aims to double the current capacity from 130 to 260 students annually, addressing the increasing demand for skilled aviation technicians in the North Central West Virginia region.
The initiative gained momentum after the state committed $25 million to develop the facility at the North Central West Virginia Airport's Aerotech Park. Located on the airport property, the facility is expected to provide a critical workforce for major aerospace employers such as Aurora Flight Sciences, Pratt & Whitney, and MHI-RJ, which are seeking to expand their operations.
“The new center will allow us to train more students locally and meet the industry’s growing needs,” said Rick Rock, Airport Director.
Airport Director Rick Rock emphasized that the new center will enable local companies to compete better for qualified personnel and attract new aerospace businesses. Bridgeport Mayor Robert Matheny highlighted that the expansion would foster regional economic growth, reduce family outmigration, and provide more opportunities for young people in the area.
The current program, housed at the Robert C. Byrd National Aviation Education Center in Bridgeport, has proven effective, but the new building will allow more students to be trained locally. Discussions are also underway with Marshall University to potentially establish additional educational offerings at the airport, further strengthening the region’s aviation and aerospace sector.
