Piedmont Airlines Donates Aircraft and Engines to University of Maryland Eastern Shore Aviation Program
SALISBURY, MD - Piedmont Airlines has donated an Embraer 145 regional jet and two Rolls-Royce turbofan engines to the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. The donation supports the launch of UMES' FAA Part 147 Certified Aviation Maintenance Technician School.
The wholly-owned subsidiary of American Airlines made the announcement from Salisbury, Maryland. The donation represents a strategic investment in aviation education and workforce development. UMES welcomed its first class of 15 students on August 25.
UMES is one of the few Historically Black Colleges and Universities in the nation with an FAA-certified Airframe and Powerplant program. The donated aircraft is no longer in commercial service but remains fully functional. Students will gain hands-on experience with all aircraft components from nose to tail, including landing gear and engine systems.
The two static Rolls-Royce turbofan engines will enhance training opportunities. Students can disassemble and reassemble real-world equipment to prepare for Airframe and Powerplant certification exams.
"At Piedmont, we firmly believe in the power of workforce development opportunities that provide resources in helping to shape the future of aviation," said Eric Morgan, CEO of Piedmont Airlines. "We take great pride in donating this aircraft and engines to UMES' students, knowing that these resources are more than a tangible contribution, they're an investment in the long-term future of aviation. By placing real-world tools in their hands, we're helping to shape a skilled, diverse workforce that will strengthen the talent pipeline throughout the industry for years to come."
The UMES aviation maintenance program was developed through collaboration with multiple partners. Piedmont Airlines worked with Wicomico County, the State of Maryland, and Salisbury-Wicomico Economic Development to create the program.
The partnership addresses the growing demand for skilled aircraft maintenance technicians as the current workforce approaches retirement and travel demand continues rising.
David Ryan, Executive Director of Salisbury-Wicomico County Economic Development, praised the initiative. "This donation from Piedmont Airlines is a powerful example of how public-private partnerships can drive workforce development and economic growth in our region," said Ryan. "By investing in UMES and its students, Piedmont is helping to build a pipeline of skilled aviation professionals who will contribute to the vitality of the Eastern Shore for years to come."
The program provides significant advantages for student learning. Chris Proscia, Aviation Maintenance Program Manager of the UMES Aviation Maintenance Program, emphasized the impact of the donation.
"Having access to a fully functional aircraft and industry-grade engines is a game-changer for our students," said Proscia. "These resources allow us to provide hands-on training that mirrors real-world scenarios, giving our graduates a competitive edge as they enter the aviation maintenance field. We're grateful to Piedmont Airlines for their support and belief in our mission."
UMES students benefit from the program's strategic location. The university sits just feet away from Piedmont's maintenance base in Salisbury, Maryland. Students will receive hangar tours and mentorship opportunities with Piedmont's maintenance team. Many team members helped develop the program's curriculum.
The donation is part of Piedmont's broader workforce development strategy. Since 2021, the airline has donated seven aircraft engines to technical schools along the East Coast, including UMES. The company focuses on building a diverse pipeline of aviation professionals.
Morgan emphasized the local impact of the program. "We believe in workforce development that provides real resources and real opportunities," added Morgan. "We want members of our community to know that they can work locally for a national company and build their future right here in their own backyard with Piedmont."
The donation was unveiled during a special event at UMES' new hangar facility. Representatives from the State of Maryland, Piedmont Airlines, UMES leadership, and other local dignitaries attended the ceremony.
