Piedmont Airlines, a subsidiary of American Airlines, has donated an Embraer 145 (E145) regional jet and two Rolls-Royce static turbofan jet engines to the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES), supporting the launch of its FAA Part 147 Certified Aviation Maintenance Technician School.
UMES, one of the few Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the nation with an FAA-certified Airframe and Powerplant program, welcomed its first class of 15 students in August 2025.
The Embraer 145, while no longer in commercial service, remains fully functional, offering students hands-on experience with all components of the aircraft, from nose to tail, including the landing gear and engine systems, according to company officials.
The two static Rolls-Royce turbofan jet engines will further enhance training by allowing students to disassemble and reassemble real-world equipment, preparing them for the Airframe and Powerplant certification exams, company officials added.
“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.”
“Having access to a fully functional aircraft and industry-grade engines is a game-changer for our students,” said Chris Proscia, Aviation Maintenance Program Manager of the UMES Aviation Maintenance Program. “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.”
The UMES aviation maintenance program was developed in collaboration with Piedmont Airlines, Wicomico County, the State of Maryland, and Salisbury-Wicomico Economic Development. The partnership aims to address the growing demand for skilled aircraft maintenance technicians as the current workforce begins to retire.
Located just feet away from Piedmont’s maintenance base in Salisbury, Maryland, UMES students will benefit from hangar tours and mentorship opportunities with Piedmont’s maintenance team, many of whom helped shape the program’s curriculum.
For more information: Piedmont-Airlines.com, WCP.UMES.edu