David McRobie

This week, the Fairmont State University Aviation Center of Excellence welcomed its inaugural class of cadets to the summer 2021 U.S. Air Force Junior Reserve Officer’s Training Corps Flight Academy, a program that is offered by just 25 universities across the country through a partnership with the U.S. Air Force.  

“Every one of these cadets is so sharp, and you can really see their promise,” said Joel Kirk, Chief Pilot and Fairmont State Aviation Center of Excellence Director. 

For many people, travel by plane can be a stressful experience. Between navigating airport security lines, making it to the departure gate on time and crossing your fingers that your checked bags arrive at your destination at the same time as you, there are plenty of opportunities for things to go awry. 

But for Samuel Heitzman, a member of Fairmont State’s recently graduated Class of 2021, the experience is exhilarating.  

Fairmont State University and the Fairmont State Aviation Center of Excellence honored Fairmont native and donor to the University, David McRobie, at a press conference and dedication ceremony on Friday.  

Fairmont State’s Aviation Center of Excellence is the first and only (CFR) part 141 established collegiate pilot training program in West Virginia, a designation enabling the program to offer students Federal Aviation Administration approved and structured training, syllabi, training aids and facilities, allowing for a reduction in required training hours.