The Duncan Aviation Family Trust has established the first endowed professorship ever at the College of Aviation at Western Michigan University, aimed at supporting students who want to pursue TechOps careers.

The newly created J. Robert Duncan Endowed Professorship of Technical Operations is a permanent faculty position that supports efforts in aviation technical operations like:

• Education
• Research
• Curriculum development
• Leadership

Part of the initiative is to offer education in areas of focus key to aviation TechOps, such as:

• Aviation maintenance leadership
• Safety systems
• Regulatory frameworks
• Technical management
• Operational best practices

Under the professorship, developing new academic pathways will be a key objective, including:

• Technical leadership pathway in Aviation TechOps bachelor’s program
• Aviation technical leadership certificate
• Aviation maintenance leadership graduate program

By doing so, WMU hopes to ensure students graduate with the skills needed to excel in aircraft maintenance, working with complex components, technologies and operational environments.

The position will also create more mentorship opportunities for students as well as direct access to professionals currently working in aviation.

The Endowed Professor of Technical Operations will be responsible for aligning WMU programs with aviation industry needs, considering professionals like:

• Maintenance organizations
• Manufacturers
• Regulators
• Aircraft operators

The professorship is named after Duncan Aviation Chairman Emeritus Robert Duncan, emphasizing his dedication to development and technical training in the business aviation industry.

Chief Operating Officer of Duncan Aviation’s Michigan operations Andy Richards said, “Duncan Aviation is thrilled to collaborate with Western Michigan University’s College of Aviation.”

Richards continued, “WMU’s aviation program is recognized internationally for its leadership in aviation education and serves as an essential element in Duncan Aviation’s talent pipeline. As the industry expands in scope and complexity, WMU has consistently demonstrated a steadfast commitment to excellence. We value this exceptional institution as our partner.”

Dean of WMU’s College of Aviation Dr. Raymond Thompson said, “This is a meaningful investment in our students and our college.”

Thompson added, “Duncan Aviation understands the strength of this industry depends on how well we prepare the next generation of technical operations professionals. This professorship will strengthen our ability to deliver the kind of education that connects directly to the needs of the field.”

“Despite being a highly technical field, our industry relies on the talent and passion of its people to drive progress,” Richards noted.