Article written by Tom Markland and published in The Journal on May 1, 2026.
MARTINSBURG -- Berkeley County Schools is launching a new pathway into the aviation industry with the inaugural class of its AviationX program.
Held at the Eastern West Virginia Regional Airport, a signing Thursday morning recognized students selected for the first cohort of AviationX, a free, two-year career and technical education program developed in partnership with Marshall University and The Education Alliance. The initiative is designed to give high school juniors and seniors hands-on experience and a direct pipeline into aviation careers.
Superintendent Dr. Ryan Saxe said the program represents a forward-thinking investment in both students and the region’s workforce.
“Today marks the beginning of an exciting journey,” Saxe said. “This program is more than just a new academic opportunity — it represents innovation, workforce development and a commitment to prepare students for high-demand, high-skill careers right here in the Eastern Panhandle and beyond.”
Beginning this Fall, participating students will take specialized aviation courses at Marshall University’s new classroom located at the airport. The program culminates in an internship and the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications, positioning graduates for immediate employment or further education in fields such as pilot training, aerospace engineering and aviation operations.
Marshall University officials emphasized the growing demand in the aviation sector. Tony Stroud, the university’s chief legal officer and vice president for strategic initiatives, noted that industry projections estimate hundreds of thousands of job openings nationwide in the coming years.
“The opportunities are endless,” Stroud said. “There is a demand all across the board — pilots, maintenance technicians, air traffic controllers and more.”
The program also includes support from Shepherd University, which will provide guest lectures, and ongoing discussions with Blue Ridge Community and Technical College to expand training opportunities across aviation-related fields.
Students entering the program said the hands-on nature and direct career pathway were key factors in their decision to apply.
“I planned on working at an airport, but this lets me do what I really want — working on jet engines,” said Jonathan Phillips, one of the inaugural students from Hedgesville.
Another student, Mark Hunter, said the program offers a more practical approach to learning.
“I get to work with my hands more, and that’s what I’m looking forward to — the experience and the people I’ll meet along the way,” he said.
Both students said they hope to transition directly into the workforce after graduation, with interests ranging from aviation maintenance to military service.
For many, being part of the first class adds to the significance.
“It feels unreal,” Hunter said.
Local officials and education leaders credited the program’s development to strong community partnerships, including support from the Eastern West Virginia Regional Airport Authority and regional institutions.
As the ceremony concluded, students posed for photos in front of aircraft inside the hangar — a symbolic backdrop for a program leaders say is designed to help them take off into high-demand careers.
“This is your runway,” Saxe told the students. “Work hard, stay focused and take full advantage of the opportunity before you.”