Pierpont Community & Technical College

Background

Overview

Pierpont Community & Technical College (Pierpont) is a public community college located in Fairmont, West Virginia. Established in 1974, it is named after Francis H. Pierpont, a key figure in West Virginia's statehood. Pierpont is the second-largest institution within the West Virginia Community and Technical College System, serving a 13-county region in North Central West Virginia. The college offers over 40 associate degree programs, skill sets, and one-year certificates, focusing on practical, hands-on careers.

Mission and Vision

• Mission Statement: To provide accessible, responsive, comprehensive education that works.

• Vision Statement: Empowering individuals to transform their lives through education.

• Tagline: Education That Works.

Key Strategic Focus

Pierpont's strategic focus centers on delivering accessible and responsive education tailored to the needs of its diverse student body, including first-generation college students, adult learners, and those seeking workforce training. The college emphasizes flexible scheduling and support services to accommodate various learning needs. Key areas of specialization include:

• Advanced Technology Programs: Offering degrees in fields such as Advanced Manufacturing, Cybersecurity, and Petroleum Technology.

• Health Sciences: Programs like Medical Laboratory Technology and Respiratory Care.

• Aviation Maintenance: Through the Robert C. Byrd National Aerospace Education Center, providing training in flight and aviation maintenance.

Pierpont leverages state-of-the-art facilities, such as the Advanced Technology Center, to equip students with practical skills aligned with regional workforce demands.

Financials and Funding

As a public institution, Pierpont Community & Technical College receives funding from state allocations, tuition, and grants. In the 2023-2024 academic year, the college awarded over $1.4 million in West Virginia Invests Grants, covering full tuition for students pursuing in-demand fields. Additionally, the college has secured significant donations, such as a $15,000 contribution from Pratt & Whitney to support student scholarships in the Aviation Maintenance Technology Program.

Pipeline Development

Pierpont continually develops and enhances its academic offerings to meet evolving industry needs. Recent initiatives include:

• Veterinary Technology Program Expansion: In 2021, Pierpont invested nearly $2 million to expand its Clarksburg campus, acquiring a new facility to house the Veterinary Technology Program.

• Dual Credit Classes Collaboration: In 2023, Pierpont partnered with West Virginia Virtual Academy to offer dual credit classes, enabling high school students to earn college credits and potentially an associate degree upon graduation.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Pierpont emphasizes hands-on learning through advanced technological platforms and facilities:

• Advanced Technology Center (ATC): A 55,000+ square foot facility housing programs in IT/Cybersecurity, Advanced Manufacturing, and Health Information Technology.

• Robert C. Byrd National Aerospace Education Center: Located at the North Central West Virginia Airport, offering training in aviation maintenance technology.

These facilities provide dynamic training laboratories and simulators, ensuring students gain practical experience aligned with industry standards.

Leadership Team

• Interim President: Dr. Michael P. Waide

• Background: Previously served as Provost and Vice President of Academics at Pierpont.

• Role: Appointed as Interim President in 2025, following the departure of Dr. Milan S. Hayward.

• Provost: Position currently held by Dr. Michael P. Waide, serving concurrently as Interim President.

Leadership Changes

• 2023: Dr. Milan S. Hayward was named the fourth President of Pierpont Community & Technical College.

• 2025: Dr. Michael P. Waide, then Provost and Vice President of Academics, was appointed Interim President following Dr. Hayward's departure.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The community and technical college sector in West Virginia is characterized by institutions offering diverse programs tailored to regional workforce needs. Pierpont's strategic location in the I-79 High Technology Corridor positions it advantageously to serve industries in technology, healthcare, and aviation.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors include:

• Fairmont State University: Located in Fairmont, WV, offering overlapping programs and sharing historical ties with Pierpont.

• West Virginia University at Parkersburg: Offers both associate and select bachelor's degrees, serving a similar demographic.

• BridgeValley Community & Technical College: Based in South Charleston, WV, providing comparable technical programs.

These institutions compete for student enrollment and funding within the state.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Pierpont actively engages in partnerships to enhance educational opportunities:

• West Virginia Virtual Academy Collaboration: Offering dual credit classes to high school students, facilitating early college credit acquisition.

• Industry Partnerships: Collaborations with companies like Pratt & Whitney to support scholarships and align curricula with industry needs.