CCBC Foundation Announces $50,000 Leadership Gift To “Future Takes Flight” Aviation Campaign

The Community College of Beaver County (CCBC) Foundation has announced a $50,000 leadership gift in support of the college’s “Future Takes Flight” Aviation Capital Campaign, marking the first public contribution toward the initiative.

This significant investment will fund the purchase of a new Air Traffic Control (ATC) tabletop simulator, an advanced training tool designed to replicate real-world runway environments, including layouts modeled after Beaver County Airport (BVI), Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) training academy in Oklahoma City.

“This leadership gift represents more than funding, it’s an investment in student success and the future of aviation,” said James Tompkins, associate professor of air traffic control. “With this new simulator, our students will train using technology that mirrors the environments they will encounter in their careers, giving them a critical advantage as they enter the workforce.”

The simulator will enhance hands-on learning opportunities for students attending CCBC’s nationally recognized James M. Johnson School of Aviation Sciences, further strengthening the college’s ability to prepare the next generation of aviation professionals.

The “Future Takes Flight” campaign supports the development of a new 30,000-square-foot Aviation Sciences Center at the Beaver County Airport, a transformative project that will expand program capacity, introduce cutting-edge training technologies, and meet the growing demand for skilled aviation professionals.

“This gift reflects the Foundation’s deep commitment to ensuring CCBC remains a national leader in aviation education,” said Dr. Andrew Winner, associate vice president of advancement. “It sets the tone for the campaign and demonstrates the kind of impact that is possible when our community comes together to support student success.”

With aviation demand continuing to rise nationwide, CCBC’s investment in state-of-the-art facilities and technology positions the college and its graduates to meet critical workforce needs while maintaining its long-standing reputation for excellence.

The CCBC Foundation’s mission is to provide financial and charitable support to the Community College of Beaver County, enhancing college initiatives, advancing strategic priorities, and empowering students through scholarships and educational opportunities.

For more information about the “Future Takes Flight” campaign, visit www.ccbcfoundation.org/the-future-takes-flight.