PIA Technician - Fall 2019 by Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics

News About the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics

Fall 2019

Dear Reader, With the excitement of being named the #1 Two-Year Trade School by Forbes Magazine in 2018, the year that followed has brought great change to our organization. With enrollment at our schools continuing to grow, the air at all of our campuses is buzzing with promise. As with every year, it is great to reflect on the success we’ve had and look towards the future.

AMC 2019 Students & Skills

Job Security

Here’s to a successful 2020! Thanks for reading, Karin McKenna Editor-in-Chief kmckenna@pia.edu

PIA Alumni Editorial Staff: Editor-in-Chief Assistant Editor Layout Design

Karin McKenna Benjamin O’Keefe Ed Molek

PIA Contributors:

Elizabeth Burke Brittany Elliott John Ferretti Dave Koehler Karin McKenna Carly Straight Derek Vrabel

Keep up to date with the latest news on pia.edu &

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Repurposed & Rewired

3 ��Regionals Partner With PIA 9 ��Generations of PIA 6 ��AMC 2019: Students & Skills 8 ��Job Security 10 ��Campus Highlight/Youngstown 11 ��Rising Star of Safety 12 ��Campus Highlight/Myrtle Beach 13 ��PIA Alumni Spotlight: Brice Weyrich 14 ��Repurposed & Rewired 15 ��Instructor Spotlight: Greg Davis 16 ��Employee Anniversaries 17 ��2019 Clays for a Cause 17 ��Campus Highlight/Pittsburgh 18 ��Word Search 19 ��Campus Highlight/Hagerstown

In 2019, PIA celebrated 90 years of educating future generations of aviation technicians. Those 90 years have led to a rich history for our organization. Throughout this issue, you can follow the evolution of PIA from its beginnings to a leading institution in aviation.

Partnerships

Regionals Partner With PIA As the maintenance technician shortage continues to loom, companies have begun taking unique steps to address the situation.

Regional Airlines Endeavor Air and PSA Airlines created pathway programs in 2019 designed to encourage future AMTs to engage with their organizations early and often, which lead to job prospects for those students involved. These pathway programs not only serve to benefit current students, but they give students considering PIA peace of mind regarding the decision to pursue a career in aviation. “It’s always nice to be able to speak to parents and students about their career opportunities in aviation. Now, it’s even better because there is a tangible pathway that students can take to get to their goals,” says Derek Vrabel, an Admissions Representative at PIA Pittsburgh. Programs like these create opportunities for students early on in their education. The security of beginning the job search – and possibly securing a job – allows students to focus on the task of testing for their certifications. Joe Shaffer, a 6th quarter student at PIA Pittsburgh, believes that pathway programs are valuable for all involved. “It gives students face time with company representatives where they can ask questions. These employers can follow the progress of students in terms of grades and attendance to make sure they are meeting their standards,” says Shaffer.

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ndeavor Air introduced the Aviation Maintenance Pathway (AMP) Program in February of 2019. Kicking off their PIA visits in Pittsburgh, the program presents a unique opportunity for students at PIA to interact with a potential future employer. Students can register and begin engaging with Endeavor early in their education at PIA. The organization committed to including regular campus visits, classroom presentations, and on-site interviews as part of the program. Students can register for the AMP Program early in their course of study and begin actively pursuing a career opportunity with Endeavor six months before graduation. The AMP program includes partnerships with six schools across the country. When discussing the program’s inception and hopes for its success, Eric Wagner, Program Manager of Tech Ops Outreach & Recruitment at Endeavor Air, Inc., said that the choice to include PIA in that initial group of six was simple. “One of our objectives when deciding on the schools we would initially choose for the AMP program was to determine which schools [would] give this program the best opportunity to succeed. PIA’s long-standing tradition as a leader in our industry made deciding to include PIA as a founding partner school an easy one,” said Wagner. 

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SA Airlines approached PIA to become a participating school in the organization’s Maintenance Student Pathway (MSP). The airline visited PIA’s Pittsburgh Campus on August 6, 2019, to have an official signing with Suzanne Markle, President & CEO of PIA. The MSP is designed for students 6 to 12 months from their graduation date. Communication with the company begins early, with students completing an initial interview with PSA upon their application to the program. From there, PSA encourages students to actively participate in the mentorship opportunities that are offered throughout their education. Participation in the program requires students to maintain a 3.0 GPA during their schooling, to participate in quarterly meetings with PSA Airlines or recruiters, and to complete their A&P testing within 60 days of graduation. For those that choose to pursue a career with PSA, the company will also put up to $2,000 toward testing fees for students. The MSP opens the door to eight maintenance bases along the east coast, many of which provide the perfect environment for recent graduates to gain a strong foundation in the industry. 

PIA Proud - The Henschel Family

Generations of PIA

he March 2019 graduation ceremony at PIA Pittsburgh was not unlike any other, with families of soon-to-be graduates filing in throughout the early afternoon to watch their graduates receive their degrees. While many families explored PIA for the first time, the family of James Henschel returned for the third time to witness a PIA graduation. Henschel, a third-generation aviation technician, joined his grandfather and uncle as a fellow A&P mechanic, all three having graduated from PIA.

Henschel shares a background with his grandfather, Dick Weaver, both enlisting in the Air Force and gaining their interest in the field from experiences with the military. “I had four years of service in the Air Force, and PIA expanded on things I didn’t learn,” says Weaver. “We were specialized on one aircraft and didn’t necessarily get into engines or accessories.” Henschel served nine years in the Air Force and sought out PIA after his service ended. “We are learning pretty cool skills – stuff that we can actually use,” says Henschel, “When I saw what they were teaching in the classroom, I thought it was great that they actually teach things people will benefit from. It was a relief that it wasn’t irrelevant information.” Henschel’s uncle, Bob Weaver, followed in his father’s footsteps enrolling and graduating from the AMT program in 1991. Working for a small commuter early in his career, followed by

a period at GE, Weaver found himself filling a position at US Airways the same year his father retired from the hub in Pittsburgh. His time at US Airways led him to supervisory positions, which he found balanced his love of mechanics with the daily interactions that came with a management role. “The possibilities in this career are endless,” says Weaver. Henschel hopes to find himself in a supervisory role as well, having gotten a similar experience during his time in the Air Force. “I liked being in a supervisory role and being able to guide people with experience. When I thought about coming to PIA, I was thinking about how I was going to have to start over, get my A&P, and start with a new company – not to mention figuring out the civilian world, which is very different. I see myself getting back on track quickly to become a supervisor,” says Henschel. Henschel accepted a position with Endeavor Air after graduation and has begun his civilian aviation career in Milwaukee, Minnesota. His uncle and grandfather both have the utmost confidence in him, knowing that the organization will serve as a great place to begin his aviation career. “My advice to him is to keep his head up and his eyes open,” says Henschel’s grandfather, “I have confidence in him that he’ll make it. I had confidence my son would make it; now I have confidence in my grandson.” 

1929 PIA emerged from the Curtiss-Wright Flying Service, which was founded by Glenn Curtiss and Orville Wright.

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2019 Aerospace Maintenance Competition

Students & Skills

It’s difficult to describe the vastness that is the MRO Americas. Like an aviation theme park, companies from across the world join together to demonstrate the latest products, make business deals, and continue to expand this ever-growing industry.

s a student competing in the Aerospace Maintenance Competition, one thing was clear as you entered the convention center in Atlanta: the demand for aviation technicians has never been greater. A unique opportunity for anyone in aviation, the Aerospace Maintenance Competition (AMC) brings together student, military, and professional aviation technicians to challenge one another in tests of speed and skill. PIA once again sent four teams to the AMC, marking the second time that all four campuses were represented at the event. Throughout the MRO, aviation companies flocked to the staging area of the AMC to meet competitors during the three-day event. Students huddled together during a break to hear from three executives from American Airlines. Members of the Chix Fix Team from United Airlines watched on as Tiffany Yanulaitis, of PIA Youngstown, competed in her events. Those interactions between future technicians and employers only continued as students explored the MRO floor, meeting with companies that

were previously unkown to them and discussing their skill sets. Recruiters eagerly explained available positions and application processes with students. “It’s really opened my eyes to how many opportunities are out there in aviation,” said Thomas Schellhorn, a competing student from PIA Myrtle Beach. Schellhorn was a first semester student at PIA Myrtle Beach when he signed up to participate in the competition. Initially, he felt overwhelmed by the idea of competing in something like the AMC. “Once you get here, it starts to become more attainable and realistic,” he said, “It’s an honor to be here as a first semester student.” Over the course of the event, students were challenged to utilize new technologies they had never seen, as well as perfect techniques they had practiced in the shops. Members of each team completed intricate safety-wiring challenges at the Snap-On event. Whole teams worked on various projects simultaneously –> continued on 12

1944 PIA was purchased by William J. Graham, and the school was later moved to the Allegheny County Airport.

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By Julie Summers Walker - August 1, 2019 - www.aopa.org

Job Security The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) visited PIA Pittsburgh to discuss the history of the organization and the demand that exists within the aviation industry today.

hat do you want to be when you grow up? It’s a fun question when you’re 5 and everyone smiles when you say you want to be a fireman. It’s an indulgent moment for your parents when you’re 12 and delight everyone by saying you’ll be a nuclear physicist or oceanographer (see, your parents say, we are great parents). But it’s a tough question at 18 when the surety of high school is over, and even tougher when you’re 21 and spent a ridiculous amount of money to get a degree in sociology. It’s an even harder question to answer when you’re 30 and are in a dead-end job just to pay the bills, or worse, student loans. “Somewhere along the way we convinced people that everyone had to have a college degree and that a trade was bad,” said Steven Sabold, director of marketing and information technology for the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics. I am intrigued by his comment. What’s wrong with everyone earning a college degree? Isn’t this the American dream? But then I am even more intrigued by his next comment: “When you graduate from PIA, you can fix anything.” Anything? Many of us spend most of our disposable

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Job Security income hiring people to fix stuff. Mom might have said marry a doctor, but I wish I’d looked closer at the handyman.

A rich history There is no grass-covered quad or gracious columnated, ivy-covered brick buildings. No food hall with multiple selections for your every whim nor a football field, basketball court, or swimming pool. There are, however, classrooms and desks, and bells that ring to signal the end of a class session. The hallways are crowded with people carrying books and tools, and lockers slam as students rush to their next class. Teachers stand in hallways encouraging students to adhere to the mandatory 8 a.m. start time. In that, the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics resembles most schools. But it’s the hands-on classrooms that impress—more than 50 engines of every size, make, and model are available to touch, tinker with, and learn from. Aircraft ranging from small Cessnas to midsize jets and helicopters are accessible to every student; the NTSB even conducts accident research here. The Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics traces its roots to the very beginnings of aviation in this country. It grew from the Curtiss-Wright Flying Services established by Orville Wright and Glenn Curtiss in 1929. It was one of the first schools approved by the Civil Aeronautics Authority, predecessor to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The school’s main campus is located about 10 miles from downtown Pittsburgh

at Allegheny County Airport. There are satellite campuses in Youngstown, Ohio; Hagerstown, Maryland; and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Two degrees are offered: Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) and Aviation Electronics Technology (AET). The AMT program integrates earning an FAA Airframe and Powerplant Certification. At the Pittsburgh campus, students earn an AST Degree in 21 months, which includes aviation-related core courses in history, English, and mathematics. Non-degree-seeking students can earn a certificate in 16 months at Youngstown, Hagerstown, or Myrtle Beach. “If you like to work with your hands, troubleshoot problems, or want to know how something works, this is a program for you,” Sabold said. “We call it a crawl/ walk/run education; you will learn something you can do for the rest of your life.” The Pittsburgh campus is more than 100,000 square feet of classrooms, shops, labs, and hangar space. It has 11 aircraft for study, including a Learjet 35 and a Beechcraft King Air 90. Currently, students are rebuilding a Cessna Skyhawk from the bones out. The avionics section includes electronics, state-ofthe-art communications and navigation systems, and radar equipment. Students can earn an FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License. Many students enter the AET program but end up adding in the AMT requirements, too. Private pilot Zac Dorman enrolled in both the AMT and AET programs. Even though he’s held his pilot certificate since 2016,

he admits the prior aviation knowledge only got him so far. “Starting here, you realize how much you don’t know—like you can drive a car but don’t know how it works,” he said. He’s hoping to stay in general aviation when he graduates this summer. “I love reciprocating engines; with my private pilot background, that’s what I love.” Kelly Martin was also a private pilot when she enrolled at PIA. She likes jet engines. “I’m hoping to get a call from Pratt & Whitney. I like bigger, better, faster. It’s a fantastic time to be an aviation mechanic.”

Answering the demand Forbes magazine named PIA the number one two-year trade school in the nation in 2018. It is the second time the school has been on the publication’s top list. “PIA is a 370-student gem,” Forbes said in recognizing the school. “It is virtually unknown outside the aviation industry, but its alumni out-earn students from two-thirds of Forbes’ highest-ranked four-year colleges at a fraction of the price.” According to Boeing’s aviation outlook for 2018-2037, which has warned of a growing pilot shortage, the need for aviation maintenance technicians has never been greater. Boeing’s forecast said that 189,000 new AMTs will be needed globally in the next 20 years. Add to that a 30-percent retirement attrition, according to a survey by the Aviation Technician Education Council, and the job opportunities are great.

Kelly Martin was one of the 7 percent of female students at PIA. She graduated in the Summer of 2019 and accepted a position with HX5 Sierra. (Photography by Mike Fizer)

1946 PIA was reorganized as a nonprofit corporation on 2-8-46. In May of that year, the school established its advanced phase of training for aircraft mechanics in new shops.

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continued: Job Security

PIA offers a best-in-class program and consistently provides high-quality students. —Kevin Dallaire, Piedmont “We have a career-oriented-outcome mindset,” Sabold said. “PIA is a great return on your investment. There is nowhere near the number of people to fill positions. I ask parents: Where else does the employer come to you to interview you? There’s a tremendous need in the aviation industry, and employers are getting that message out there.” Richard Myers graduated from PIA and now works for Endeavor Air. He is in charge of hiring AMTs for the company. “I try hard to recruit from PIA as the product I receive is normally a step above other candidates,” he said. “I did not realize how good the training I received was while attending the school. Endeavor started a program recruiting A&Ps within a few months of students entering the school. It gives the students a connection with an airline to answer questions and hopefully help them when they finish.” Kevin Dallaire, recruiting manager for Piedmont, agrees: “PIA offers a best-in-class program and consistently provides high-quality students to join the Piedmont Airlines family. We are definitely seeing and experiencing the effects of the nationwide aircraft mechanic shortage. Piedmont is doing a number of things to help offset the effects and to position ourselves well for the future.”

There are more than 50 different types of aircraft engines available for study and 11 different aircraft to dissect at the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics. The average age of a student at PIA is between 18 and 30; however, Sabold says students come from high schools, military service, and other careers. “We have a 59-year-old retiree who wants to stay active. He wants to get his certification to stay viable, maybe work on his own aircraft. Who knows? But he does know this is a great return on his investment.” And what’s that investment? It costs $40,000 for the 21-month program. Students must find their own housing and support themselves, but the payoff is good: At least 87 percent of PIA students have jobs within six months of graduation. The median pay for aircraft maintenance technicians is $63,060, according to the Department of Labor (median U.S. household income is $60,336). Admissions representative Rick Sparvero is a U.S. Air Force veteran with an aviation maintenance background. “I love helping students find their right path. The quality of life you can have in this industry is amazing—PIA can lead to a really good future.” So why isn’t he using his skills in aviation maintenance? “You never know,” he laughs. “It’s really good right now.” 

Campus Highlight / Youngstown

n the heels of the recently completed renovation, the PIA Youngstown Campus has reached the largest student body in its history. Student enrollment as of September 2019 exceeded 120 students, nearly double the enrollment reported in September of 2016. Opened in 2006 as part of the vision set forth by the late John Graham III, the Youngstown Campus has proven that his prediction of a successful expansion of PIA in this location was accurate. In addition to increased enrollment, Open House attendance at the campus has been consistently high, with the top four largest events occurring in the last two years.

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Currently, the campus boasts a 99%* graduate employment rate, attesting to not only the results of the program, but the demand existent in the industry. The October 2019 Career Fair, initially intended to be held at the campus, was moved to the main terminal of the Youngstown-Warren Regional Airport due to the high demand. Representatives from 12 organizations, in addition to the large number of graduates, required more space than the campus can accommodate. Campus Director Joe DeRamo says this move “…highlights the growing need for qualified aviation maintenance technicians.”  *Statistic based on employable graduates between July 1, 2017 – June 30, 2018.

Jump Start

Rising Star of Safety CDL Changes Could Help Demand

ump Start Graduate Alan Harff, PGT Trucking OSHA & Safe Operations Manager, was recognized as a National Safety Council (NSC) Rising Star of Safety. These awards are presented to the next generation of safety leaders under the age of 40 who show a dedication to safety leadership at work. The NSC has been awarding this honor since 2010, with nominations submitted from organizations across the world. The National Safety Council developed the Rising Stars of Safety to help shine a light on up-and-coming safety advocates. The council seeks nominees who demonstrate leadership in safety and bring innovative solutions to problems at their organizations. “I have always had an interest in safety,” says Harff, “[It] has to be a core value as an individual and as a company.”

Harff accepted his award at the NSC Conference and Expo in San Diego, California in September. His accomplishments mirror his time as a student at Jump Start, where he strived for excellence in the classroom. Harff graduated from Jump Start in 2015, and his decision to enroll in the program was not without thought. “It took some time and hard decisions to leave my employer of 14 years to pursue my driving career. I have always loved driving, and the need for drivers and mechanics right now is incredible,” says Harff. Harff joined PGT Trucking as a Commercial Flatbed Driver in August 2015, shortly after he finished his program. Two years later, his desire for continued growth led him to an open position within the company’s Safety Department as a Safe Operations Manager. He held safety responsibilities at eight terminals across the company and spearheaded the development and revision of the Compliance and Cargo Securement Manual. Harff’s position has since expanded and now includes oversight of all OSHA responsibilities for PGT Trucking. His dedication to safety has been a consistent thread throughout his career, as his previous positions include 911 dispatcher, EMT, and volunteer firefighter. 

1980 PIA introduced a new program for Aviation Electronics. A second story & three additional buildings were added to accommodate increased enrollment.

As the shortage of qualified CDL Drivers reaches a tipping point, state lawmakers are seeking to revitalize the declining workforce. The introduction of the DRIVE-Safe Act to Congress in February 2019 is addressing the increasing cost of consumer goods as a result of the massive truck driver shortage across the nation. The passing of this legislation would impact age restrictions on interstate transportation. Currently, CDL’s can be obtained by drivers starting at 18. Those young drivers, however, are prohibited from transporting goods commercially across state lines until they turn 21. This change would allow CDL holders to expand their employment opportunities, thus having a positive impact on the industry. The change would not, however, come without preparation: – drivers would be required to complete a 400-hour training program to cross state lines. 

Courtesy of PGT Trucking LinkedIn

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continued: 2019 Aerospace Maintenance Competition at the PPG event area, which included a virtual paint booth. Overall, students were glad they had the opportunity to travel to Atlanta to compete. “It’s been a great experience overall, and a great trip with my classmates,” said Sam Dubel, a PIA Pittsburgh competitor. Gary Dyer, a student at PIA Youngstown, had previously worked on jet engines in the Air Force. With his experience, an education at PIA has made him a well-rounded mechanic able to work on various aspects of an aircraft. “I had never worked on reciprocating engines before [in the Air Force],” said Dyer. Standing with professionals in the industry and challenging oneself in the competition made the experience of participating in the AMC worthwhile. “If you are on the fence about doing something like this, the experience alone gives you an idea of what it’s going to be like in the industry,” said Dyer. “That’s one of the most beneficial things about it.” Sending teams of students to the AMC has been made possible through the support of the following team sponsors. Thank You! 

allegiant air

The next Aerospace Maintenance Competition will be held in Dallas, Texas, in the spring of 2020.

Campus Highlight / Myrtle Beach

or the second year in a row, Team PIA Myrtle Beach brought home more than just valuable experiences from the Aerospace Maintenance Competition. Thomas Schellhorn, a first semester student at the time of the competition, scored the second fastest time in the Olympus Ultrasonic Thickness Testing Event.

The event asked competitors to calibrate an ultrasonic thickness gauge and verify the thickness of various acrylic panels. For his success in the event, the Myrtle Beach Team was awarded the gauge used in the event. Last year, the competition team from PIA Myrtle Beach earned the fastest time in the Barfield Pitot Static Testing Event and received the testing set as their prize. 

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PIA was a great support to me as a veteran.

Alumni Spotlight

Where I Belong 2018: Pittsburgh Campus, PA Program: Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) Employment: GE Aviation Position: Assembly & Test Technician

he path to the right career isn’t necessarily straightforward for every student. Brice Weyrich learned that finding the right industry for him took time and, most importantly, experience. His search for the perfect career ultimately brought him back to a childhood interest - aviation. “Ever since I was a kid, I was always interested in aviation. Instead of collecting baseball cards, I collected airplane cards. They were pictures of airplanes with statistics on it…it listed the engines, where they were made, what year, how many. My favorite was the Blackhawk by Lockheed Martin.” Weyrich attended a traditional four-year school after graduating high school but quickly found that he wasn’t interested in that type of education. “Out of high school I went to college and found out I wasn’t ready,” said Weyrich. He worked in retail before enlisting in the Marine Corps, and that gave him a foundation for a better career. “I needed something to fall back on. If I decided to get out [of the Marines], I could have my education paid for. Going to PIA was something that just fell into place. I decided to pursue what I had always dreamed about and the career I had always wanted. I jumped on Google and searched for aviation mechanic schools. I really felt like this was where I belonged.”

2006 -12 To meet a growing need for qualified technicians in the aviation industry, PIA opened branch campuses in Youngstown, OH, Hagerstown, MD, and Myrtle Beach, SC.

Photo courtesy of GE Aviation

According to Weyrich, there were challenges transitioning from Marine to student. “It can be difficult at times. PIA was a great support to me as a veteran. Financial Aid helped with anything I needed regarding my GI Bill. Everyone just wanted to make sure I had everything I needed to get through the program.” Weyrich’s military experience was not aviation related, but by studying both the Aviation Maintenance and Aviation Electronics –> continued on 18

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Jet Commander

was our only turbine-powered aircraft for a time, but now we have the Learjet and King Air, which are able to be used,” said Gary Hoyle, Director of Campus Operations at PIA.

Seventh quarter AMT students have taken on a new project, assisting in the creation of a new avionics training platform.

Repurposed & Rewired

IA’s Jet Commander, donated to the school by the FAA, was decommissioned due to its roughly 60-year age. Initially used by the FAA to test approach systems at airports, PIA utilized the aircraft for various tasks during a student’s education, from engine run-ups to proper towing techniques. To ensure valuable equipment is utilized in a nose to tail manner, the idea of repurposing the fuselage for avionics students was presented. “The aircraft served us well over the years, but we have other jet-powered aircraft now that are much more reliable for running engines. The Jet Commander

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Patrick Buono, 7th quarter instructor at PIA Pittsburgh, has begun supervising the project in the maintenance shop. Students removed the engines and vertical stabilizer from the aircraft. In the Fall of 2019, students clipped the wings for easier mobility of the aircraft. “It’s a unique experience,” says Buono, “The students have enjoyed it so far.” The interior and exterior of the aircraft will be outfitted with avionics projects. Students will be able to simulate repairs on wiring and communications equipment in the aircraft, rather than at a workbench. The detached engines have been sent to PIA’s Youngstown Campus, where instructor William Ogle has spearheaded a project to utilize them in the classroom. Ogle and his team are working on constructing a mount for the engines, designed to give students the experience of simulated engine changes. The repurposing of the aircraft will give generations of students the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to a practical situation and add to PIA’s continuously expanding collection of training aids. 

Instructor Spotlight

Greg Davis Mr. Davis moved from a full-time to part-time position at PIA Myrtle Beach in November of 2019. Over the summer, he reflected on his career and his dedication to guiding others through theirs.

Your Guide to the Seas & Skies

he close-knit campus of PIA Myrtle Beach is home to a staff and faculty that is fully dedicated to the success of its students. For the last six years, Greg Davis has brought decades of experience, aviation-themed Hawaiian shirts, and a passion for teaching to the Myrtle Beach instructional staff. His wisdom and passion for aviation is apparent as he advises students on all aspects of the industry, from reciprocating engines to propellers.

father serving as pilots and mechanics before him. After earning his A&P in 1973, Mr. Davis went on to work at various companies before taking on a position at Boeing as a Subject Matter Expert. “I was always teaching people how to work on their airplanes,” said Davis, “There were lots of mistakes I helped people overcome, which I can relate to the students. They benefit from hearing the real-world side of the story instead of just a dry textbook.”

Mr. Davis was working at Mountain Air Cargo in Myrtle Beach when he first connected with PIA. Even before his employment with the school, he was happy to take students over to the flight line, where they could gain experiencing towing aircraft, changing tires, and riding along for engine runs. When Mr. Davis was offered and accepted a position at PIA, his wife joked with him, “You just weren’t done with airplanes, were you?” Within a week of accepting the position, Mr. Davis was in the classroom teaching courses on reciprocating engines. Since then, he has delved into every course apart from sheet metal and electrical courses. “When you see someone mature and become enthusiastic about the field [it’s worth it]. We only have to make one other great mechanic, who will populate the next batch of mechanics, who will then become an instructor in their retirement.”

Gaining a variety of experiences is an aspect of education that Davis values. When PIA became interested in sending a group of students to the Aerospace Maintenance Competition, Davis was happy to take on the challenge. “It sounded like a lot of fun. Here we are now, a few years later, and we have all four campuses competing in it. The kids love it – it teaches them about the rest of the industry and opens a channel of networking that they would not otherwise have had.”

Aviation has been in a part of the Davis family for many generations, with both his father and grand-

1995 Jump Start programs were introduced at PIA to offer short-term education for truck driving. They’ve since expanded to include Heavy Equipment Operator training.

Mr. Davis’ passion for education extends past aviation into other lifelong hobbies. Davis has been scuba diving since high school, and now teaches historical diving. A helmet he won, a Mark V, allowed him to get involved with this specific style of diving. “They’ve been doing this type of diving since before the Civil War. It’s not about enjoying the water and looking at the fish – it’s about salvage work and working in the –> continued on 19

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Employee Anniversaries Gary Hoyle began his career in

aviation as a graduate of PIA in 1967. Since then, he has served in the US Army as a Helicopter Crew Chief, worked as an aircraft mechanic at United Airlines, and eventually returned to PIA to begin yrs his career as an electrical instructor. Currently serving as PIA’s Director of Campus Operations, Gary was awarded the Charles Taylor “Master Mechanic” Award last year and is also the President of the Aviation Technician Education Council. In his time away from PIA, he enjoys taking his wife, children, and grandchildren out on the water in his boat.

Chuck Miller currently serves as

maintenance supervisor for PIA. Before arriving here in 1983, he worked for his father’s electrical business, followed by a five-year stint at Kennametal. In his spare time, he enjoys hunting, fishing, yrs golfing, bicycling, and traveling. His favorite activity is to hop in the car with his wife and head east to visit his four grandchildren, two girls and two boys, ages two to seven.

Donata Clark is currently PIA’s Asso-

ciate Director of Financial Aid. When she is not managing financial aid files, she enjoys spending her time reading. During the summer, you can find Donata and her family at the lake, and in the colder months cheering on her favorite teams, the Pens and Steelers.

Patrick Buono is a graduate of PIA, returning to education after years in the aviation field at U.S. Airways. In addition to holding his A&P, he is also a Designated Mechanic Examiner and a Private Pilot. Pat has restored several of his own aircraft and enjoys hunting in his free time.

yrs

Greg Davis serves as an Instructor

at the Myrtle Beach Campus. Greg is a Navy Veteran and brings 45 years of aviation experience to his role, including work for McDonnell Douglas/Boeing as a Subject Matter Expert. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his dogs and teaching diving.

yrs

Carrie Grimes serves as the Cam-

pus Coordinator at PIA’s Youngstown Campus. Outside of work, Carrie is a busy wife and mother. Her two children are involved in band and sports, keeping her active on evenings and weekends. yrs She also enjoys camping, spending time with her family and friends, and being a member of the local Booster Club.

Stephanie Ostrowski is a grad-

uate of Fairmont State University and an Admissions Representative at the Hagerstown Branch Campus.  She lives in Martinsburg, West Virginia with her husband, two young boys, and labradoodle, Cookie.  In her nonexistent free time Stephanie enjoys running and doing yoga.

yrs

Nadia Speney is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh and currently serves as Director for Jump Start Training Division. Nadia began working at PIA in 2013 in the JS division as an Admissions Representative. Nadia is actively involved yrs with several industry-related associations and currently sits on the Board of Directors for the Commercial Vehicle Training Association. In her spare time, Nadia enjoys crafting, hiking, snowboarding, and spending time outdoors with her family & dog Maddison.

Carl Williams brings over 20 years

of experience to his role as instructor at PIA Myrtle Beach, with prior positions at Mountain Air Cargo, BankAir, Eagle Aviation, and Stevens Aviation. Throughout his career, he has worked in the military, yrs corporate, and commercial sectors of aviation. In his spare time, Carl enjoys cooking, fishing, and spending time with his family.

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2019

eptember 6th, 2019, PIA held its 7th Annual Clays for a Cause Fundraiser at Seven Springs Mountain Resort. Sporting a new name, the event continued its tradition of success with dozens of participants, including sponsors, employees, PIA staff, friends, and family. All involved were able to enjoy a beautiful late summer day filled with friendly competition, delicious food, and great company.

Thank you to all Sponsors and to all who helped.

PIA was once again able to raise record breaking funds to support PIA students as they pursue their career in aviation. Surpassing 2018’s total of $17,500, the $18,597 earned this year will help deserving PIA students through the Memorial Scholarship Fund. Lending assistance to our generous sponsorships were a 50/50 raffle and a Chinese auction.

Gold Level Case Sabatini CSK Advertising DLA Architecture & Real Estate Fagan Sanitary Supply PSA Airlines Washington Financial Wealth Management

We offer many thanks to all involved for making the event such a success. Your efforts go directly to improving the situations of PIA students, ultimately strengthening the aviation industry for the future. Last year’s winners, Brittany Ortega, Dillon Longden, James Bizaiev, Rebecca Sehn, and Tiffany Yanulaitis, are each currently working in the industry or continuing their education at PIA. Thank you to Andrea Smith, Student Services Coordinator at PIA Pittsburgh, for organizing another successful event. 

Aircraft Technical Book Company All Pittsburgh Real Estate Bootay, Bevington, and Nichols Bowser Carrie On Communications Gulfstream Aerospace Henderson Brothers JSFirm.com Oeler Industries, Inc. Piedmont Airlines PMH Consultants Ricoh Skywest Airlines Sonic Tools Steiner Aviaton International Tri-Ad Litho Inc.

Platinum Level BB&T Bombardier Constant Aviation Endeavor Air Republic Airlines UIS XYPRIA

Trapper Level

For more information on how to support and/or participate in PIA’s 2020 Memorial Scholarship Fundraiser, “Clays for a Cause,” please contact Andrea Smith at 412-346-2174 or asmith@pia.edu.

Campus Highlight / Pittsburgh

ast year, PIA Pittsburgh received a grant through the Pennsylvania Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program. The grant of $500,000 is earmarked for use toward renovation to the campus, primarily focused on the student experience. PIA will provide matching funds toward the project.

2018 Forbes Magazine named PIA the #1 Two-Year Trade School, emphasizing the school’s educational quality and return on investment for students.

As meetings with architects and designers continue, areas of focus for the renovations include upgrades to the lunchroom, computer labs, and the learning resource center, as well as the development of student common areas where collaboration and study can take place. A key feature of this renovation includes moving all student learning resources, including library and computer lab facilities, from their current location in Ball Hall to inside –> continued on 19 Fall Technician 2019

Airport City Codes

Across

Down

7. LGA

1. LAX

9. MSP

2. HNL

11. SEA

3. DAB

13. SFO

4. HGR

continued: Alumni Spotlight

16. SAN

5. SLC

programs at PIA, he was able to get a full understanding of how an aircraft works. He is now certified to do mechanical and avionics-related repairs on all aspects of an aircraft, as he holds both his A&P and GROL certifications.

17. DTW

6. ORD

18. MYR

8. ANC

19. EWR

10. PIT

Name the city or cities for the airport codes below. Don’t use spaces for more than one word. There are two New York airports, their answers are the airport name, not the city.

“I’ve seen a lot of people go through a two-year school and get out in the industry and make just as much money, if not more, than a four-year school graduate. I’m not shy to say I struggled in the four-year school environment, and here I am now building jet engines for the aviation industry. For me, this is the best school to have gotten my education at.” PIA’s education gave Weyrich the opportunity to pursue his perfect career. Weyrich is working at GE aviation, where he currently builds engines for the Boeing 737 Max and the Airbus 320 Neo. “When I was searching for a career, I looked into as many opportunities as I could. For anyone that is interested in aviation, right now is a great time for anyone to get involved. There are so many different opportunities available that you can take within aviation, that can literally take you anywhere in t he world.” 

Fall Technician 2019

12. CAK 14. YNG 15. JFK 20. ATL

Campus Highlight / Hagerstown

IA Hagerstown was named a “2019 School of Excellence,” a recognition bestowed by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC). The Hagerstown Campus is one of only 17 schools to earn this distinguished honor across the country this year. Currently, there are approximately 800 schools accredited by ACCSC. This award recognizes ACCSC-accredited institutions for their endeavors in exhibiting a high level of accomplishment among their students and a commitment to the accreditation process. The campus was recognized for their accomplishment during the 2019 ACCSC Professional Development Conference, held September 23-25, 2019, in Reston, Virginia. In attendance at the conference were Butch Adams, Campus Director of PIA Hagerstown, and Jason Mongan, Director of Education at PIA. Mongan considers this achievement a collaborative effort from everyone on campus. “The ACCSC School of Excellence award is evidence of the amount of teamwork and

dedication the Hagerstown Campus Director, faculty, supporting staff, and administration contribute to ensure the success of our students,” said Mongan. Founded in 2011, PIA Hagerstown was the third expansion of the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics. Since then, classes have continued to grow as the campus is currently the only FAA Approved Part 147 school in Maryland. “The Hagerstown campus faculty dedicate time to ensure students both comprehend and perform the necessary assignments to become successful aviation maintenance technicians in today’s industry,” said Mongan. Those faculty are led by Butch Adams, who has served as Hagerstown’s Campus Director since 2012. “Being named a School of Excellence is truly an honor for our entire organization,” said Adams, “From our staff and faculty who strive to provide a top-notch education each day, to our students and graduates who carry their hard-working, high-achieving habits with them throughout their careers.” 

continued: Instructor Spotlight

continued: Pittsburgh Campus

water. It’s about jobs you can’t do any other way.”

the main building where it is more convenient for both faculty and students.

Even initially enjoying the sport of diving as a participant, Davis found himself taking on the role of teacher with his wealth of knowledge. “With everything I have done, I’ve become a teacher. I feel I have been a guide more than a teacher.” That guidance has led to students pursuing the rewarding career paths within aviation and beyond, and the passion Davis has for guiding is apparent. “Seeing people going into the industry not just armed to turn wrenches, but to be the best mechanic they can be. Some of them will become supervisors, project managers; some will become logisticians that solve problems for hundreds of mechanics at a time. Those are the seeds that the right teaching staff can plant.” As Mr. Davis nears his retirement, he plans on spending more time with his dogs and more days in the water. He plans on remaining a part-time instructor at PIA, filling in when needed and assisting with the organization. His advice for students as he parts is to disregard the idea of limitations. “Everyone thinks they want to be a mechanic the rest of their life. But eventually you may want to be a supervisor or project manager or quality assurance – you don’t need to limit yourself by what is taught at your school. It needs to be one tool in your box, one of the building blocks and foundations of your career.” 

“We are working hard to ensure that these dollars are spent in the most efficient way,” said President Suzanne Markle. “Several sections of our building were constructed over a half-century ago, so we have plenty of opportunity to improve our training areas to better serve today’s learners. With the proper attention to priority and design, we will ensure that this project will result in the best possible improvement to the facility in the areas identified by the grant.” “We look forward to the positive changes that these renovations will bring to the student experience overall,” says Jason Pfarr, Dean of Students at PIA. 

Future The ever-changing field of aviation continues to present challenges and calls for innovation from everyone within the industry.

Fall Technician 2019

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID PITTSBURGH PA PERMIT NO. 2920

Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics P.O. Box 10897 Pittsburgh, PA 15236

YEARS OF

AVIATION TRAINING This year, PIA is proud to celebrate 90 years of training future aviation technicians. Since its founding in 1929, PIA has strived to provide an exemplary education for those seeking to pursue careers as maintenance and electronics technicians. Our success in the aviation industry could not be achieved without the dedication of our students, faculty, and staff. We are proud of all PIA alumni for the successes they have attained after their training here. The support of the aviation community, as well as the local communities that house our campuses, has allowed our institution to thrive. We thank everyone who has contributed to PIA’s success throughout the last 90 years.

PRESIDENTS August G. Becker

William J. Graham

John Graham II

1929–1943

1943–1967

1967–2008

PIA Service Years

Ivan Livi

John Graham III

Suzanne Markle

1951–1993

1993–2017

1999–Present

PIA Service Years