The AviationX program is a free, two-year career and technical education pathway that provides students with hands-on training and real-world experience in aviation. Developed through a partnership among Berkeley County Schools, Marshall University and The Education Alliance, the program offers a direct pathway to aviation careers after graduation. Students in the program will explore opportunities such as pilot training, aerospace engineering and aviation operations, with the option to specialize during their senior year. Two other higher education institutions, Shepherd University and Blue Ridge Community and Technical College (BRCTC), are expected to participate in the program’s future offerings.
During a ceremony at the Eastern WV Regional Airport, students from Martinsburg, Musselman, Hedgesville and Spring Mills high schools, signed their commitment to the program and were celebrated in front of friends and family members.
“AviationX gives our students a unique opportunity to explore aviation careers while building real-world skills,” said Dr. Ryan Saxe, superintendent of Berkeley County Schools. “By connecting classroom learning with hands-on experience, students can discover their passions, plan for their future, and gain the knowledge and confidence needed to succeed. I am excited to expand additional aviation opportunities through Marshall, Shepherd and potentially BRCTC. Partnerships like this show the power of education and industry working together to open doors for our students.”
“Marshall University aviation is pleased and proud to partner with Berkeley County Schools as they launch this groundbreaking program designed to provide students with a line of sight to opportunity in aviation,” said Bill Noe, Marshall’s chief aviation officer. “We look forward to welcoming the first group of students to our facilities at Martinsburg Airport in the fall of 2026. This program will introduce students to career pathways for pilots, technicians, unmanned operators, engineers and the aviation business. Marshall University is committed to meeting the educational needs of the next generation of aviation professionals.”
Starting in Fall 2026, students will take two career and technical education courses on site at Marshall’s Eastern WV Regional Airport classroom during their junior and senior years. During the second semester of their senior year, students will complete an internship and have the opportunity to take a relevant certification exam, as applicable.
“The Education Alliance is proud to stand alongside our education and industry partners to celebrate these students,” said Dr. Amelia Courts, president and CEO of the Education Alliance. “AviationX is a powerful example of what happens when we enable students to step into real career pathways while still in high school, gaining the skills, experience and confidence they need to succeed right here in West Virginia.”
Click here for more program information.