Pierpont aviation program expansion drives growth

The expansion of Pierpont Community & Technical College’s aviation maintenance technology (AMT) program in Bridgeport is now back underway, doubling the program’s annual student capacity from 130 to 260. Experts say this growth will provide local aerospace companies with a larger pool of qualified workers, potentially encouraging industry expansion and further investment in the region. The program already boasts near 100% job placement for graduates at North Central West Virginia’s Aerotech Park, and officials highlight the immediate demand for skilled workers, with companies ready to hire dozens of graduates as soon as they are available.

Beyond workforce development, the program expansion is expected to benefit the state’s economy more broadly by providing education and career opportunities to residents of rural counties, reducing outmigration, and attracting students from outside the immediate region. Economists and local leaders see the AMT program as a strategic “landing place” for talent, supporting West Virginia’s industrial diversification and strengthening its appeal to employers in growing sectors. Lawmakers also emphasize the importance of promoting these high-paying careers to young people to ensure the state continues producing graduates aligned with industry needs.

This information has been summarized, read WV News’ full coverage on the Pierpont aviation program expansion.