Pierpont Community and Technical College receives donation for its Pierpont Foundation

Pierpont Community and Technical College’s Pierpont Foundation, Inc has received a $15,000 donation from MHI RJ Aviation Group to help support the Foundation’s mission to provide scholarships and emergency funding to students who are experiencing great financial need. The donation from MHI RJ Aviation Group will be specifically put to use to help students in the college’s Aviation Maintenance Technology program. The gift was presented at the college’s annual career fair on April 24, 2025. 

According to an article on Pierpont Community and Technical College’s website, Kathy Hypes, who serves as the Pierpont Foundation’s director, expressed her gratitude for the group’s donation to the Foundation. She is quoted as saying, “We deeply appreciate MHIRJ’s generous donation and continued support, which will benefit our Aviation Maintenance Technology program and its students. Their support is invaluable in providing opportunities and empowering the next generation of aviation maintenance professionals in NCWV.”

The Pierpont Foundation provides program-specific funding to help students in their various academic and workforce programs. This donation will fund that financial assistance for students in the college’s Aviation Maintenance Technology program by providing scholarships to help with tuition costs, cover the fees for FAA certifications, and working to develop the Aviation Maintenance Technology program in general.

Jonathan Clarke, the head of service centers at MHIRJ, said of the company’s decision to donate, “Investing in the future of aviation is about equipping the individuals who will sustain its progress. This donation goes beyond just supplying scholarships; it aims to nurture the next generation of skilled technicians. By supporting their development, we contribute to a safer sky and ensure that our aircraft continue to soar.”

Michael Genin, the Director of Operations at MHIRJ, added of his own personal connection to Pierpont Community and Technical College, “I was a former student here, and it is great to see that my company is investing in providing to the community to show dedication and commitment to the school.”

MHIRJ plays a significant role in West Virginia’s economy. It is a major player in the global regional aircraft industry and has helped bring West Virginia to the forefront of the industry by establishing and expanding its facilities in the region, employing a substantial West Virginian workforce. The company is a regular participant in Pierpont’s annual career fair and provides job placement opportunities for students in the Aviation Maintenance Technology program at its own facilities.

Dr. Brad Gilbert, who serves as the Director of Aviation at Pierpont, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership between the college and MHIRJ. He said, “Nationwide, there is a shortage of aircraft mechanics. Partnering with a large industry representative goes a long way to fill the gap between the demand and supply of technicians.”

For more information about Pierpont Community and Technical College, visit the school’s website.