Western Michigan University College of Aviation establishes J. Robert Duncan Endowed Professorship of Technical Operations

Western Michigan University’s College of Aviation has its first-ever endowed professorship thanks to a gift from Duncan Aviation. The new professorship is the J. Robert Duncan Endowed Professorship of Technical Operations is a permanent position that will help advance research, education, and leadership within aviation technical operations. 

According to an article on Western Michigan University’s website, Dr. Raymond Thompson, who serves as the dean of the College of Aviation, was quoted as saying of the new professorship, “This is a meaningful investment in our students and our college. Duncan Aviation understands the strength of this industry depends on how well we prepare the next generation of technical operations professionals. This professorship will strengthen our ability to deliver the kind of education that connects directly to the needs of the field. This endowed position gives us the flexibility to engage highly experienced professionals who can help shape curriculum, mentor students and keep our programs aligned with a rapidly evolving operational environment.”

Duncan Aviation is a business jet service provider that has supported the university’s College of Aviation for several years. Among its contributions to the College of Aviation include the establishment of an aviation maintenance internship program, a maintenance scholarship, and collaboration on the WMU Aviation Summer Camp.

This latest gift to the College of Aviation establishes the J. Robert Duncan Endowed Professorship of Technical Operations, which will focus on helping to prepare students for technical operations and aviation maintenance, as well as instilling in them the leadership skills necessary within the field.

Additionally, the endowed professorship will help develop new academic pathways for the College of Aviation, including an aviation technical leadership certificate program, a graduate program in aviation maintenance leadership, and a technical leadership pathway within the aviation technical operations bachelor’s degree program.

Andy Richards, who is the chief operating officer of Duncan Aviation’s Michigan operations, said, “Duncan Aviation is thrilled to collaborate with Western Michigan University’s College of Aviation. WMU’s aviation program is recognized internationally for its leadership in aviation education and serves as an essential element in Duncan Aviation’s talent pipeline. As the industry expands in scope and complexity, WMU has consistently demonstrated a steadfast commitment to excellence. We value this exceptional institution as our partner. Despite being a highly technical field, our industry relies on the talent and passion of its people to drive progress.”

For more information about Western Michigan University, visit the school’s website.