Community celebrates Jim Perry Aviation Center groundbreaking. Photo: Danny Perez/Neuse News.

Community leaders, educators, and supporters gathered for the groundbreaking ceremony of Lenoir Community College’s Aviation Center for Excellence on Tuesday. The event marked a significant milestone in the college's efforts to advance education and innovation in the aviation industry.

Randy Smith, Chairman of the Lenoir Community College Board of Trustees, opened the ceremony. "Today we gather to celebrate the beginning of an exciting new chapter in our community’s journey toward innovation, education, and excellence in aviation," Smith said. He emphasized the center’s role in providing state-of-the-art training and research facilities, aiming to equip students with the skills needed to excel in the aviation industry.

The Aviation Center for Excellence will offer cutting-edge technology, state-of-the-art simulators, and hands-on experiences. “This center will be a place where dreams take flight,” Smith stated, highlighting the center's potential to prepare students for future opportunities.

Preston Hunter, Executive Director of the North Carolina Global TransPark, echoed Smith’s sentiments, emphasizing the strong partnership between the college and the Global TransPark. “What this Aviation Center of Excellence will provide is state-of-the-art training facilities and programs at the airport,” Hunter said. He noted the center's role in making workforce development more accessible and fostering economic growth in the region.

The Aviation Center of Excellence opens an opportunity available to all junior and seniors in High School to enroll for free while in high school. Students will receive ground instruction and earning college credit through the Private Pilot Essentials Certificate Program. Transportation will be provided to Aerospace and Advanced Manufacturing Center (AAMC). Certificate, two-year, and four-year programs are available. Solo flights can be conducted as early as 16 years old and earn an private pilot license at 17 years old.

The ceremony also featured remarks from Dr. Rusty Hunt, President of Lenoir Community College. Hunt expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts of local leaders and industry partners. “We need to work together as partners to make these things happen,” Hunt said, acknowledging the contributions of various stakeholders, including the North Carolina Global TransPark and the Lenoir County Commissioners.

Senator Jim Perry, a notable supporter of the project and an alumnus of the college, was honored at the event. The new center will be named the Jim Perry Aviation Center for Excellence in recognition of his dedication to education and the community. “It’s humbling to stand here and be honored in this way,” Perry said. He reflected on his personal journey and the importance of education in shaping his career.

The Jim Perry Aviation Center for Excellence is expected to offer a range of programs, from short-term training to degree courses, in collaboration with East Carolina University and Elizabeth City State University. These programs aim to meet the evolving needs of the aviation industry and support regional economic development.

The groundbreaking ceremony concluded with participants turning the first shovels of dirt, symbolizing the commencement of construction. The new facility is anticipated to play a crucial role in training the next generation of aviation professionals and enhancing the region's competitiveness in the aerospace sector.

The community’s support for the project was evident in the attendance of local officials, industry representatives, and educators. “Together, we are building a brighter future for our community, one filled with promise, opportunity, and prosperity,” Hunter concluded.

For more information contact Mat Tribula, Director of Aviation Programs by email at matribula90@lenoircc.edu or call at (252) 527-6223 ext. 251.

Community celebrates Jim Perry Aviation Center groundbreaking. Photo: Danny Perez/Neuse News.