Marshall University has received a $900,000 federal grant secured by U.S. Rep. Riley Moore, R-W.Va., to support the development of a new aviation training facility at Martinsburg Airport, advancing the university’s growing aviation mission in West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle.
Moore secured funding to establish in-person training opportunities for Marshall University Aviation through his work on the House Appropriations Committee. The planned facility will support pilot training, aircraft dispatcher education and unmanned aerial systems instruction for both students and aviation industry professionals.
In addition to academic programming, the facility will be designed to accommodate stand-alone courses and customized workforce training aligned with the needs of regional employers and the broader aviation sector.
“Today’s investment in Marshall University’s aviation program is a commitment to West Virginia’s future workforce and economy,” Moore said. “This new facility will expand opportunities for training in pilot certification, dispatch operations and unmanned aerial systems, while also supporting the needs of local businesses. I’m proud to have secured $900,000 in funding through my work on the House Appropriations Committee.”
Marshall University President Brad D. Smith emphasized the long-term impact of the investment on workforce development and regional growth.
“We are deeply grateful to Congressman Riley Moore for his leadership and support in securing funding for the Marshall University Aviation program in West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle,” Smith said. “This investment will expand opportunities for pilot training, dispatcher education and unmanned aerial systems instruction, while also allowing us to deliver customized workforce training for industry partners. The new facility strengthens our commitment to meeting the growing aviation workforce needs of the region and creating new pathways for students and professionals across West Virginia.”
Construction timelines and additional program details will be announced as the project moves forward.
