Aerium Donates $50,000 to GJCTC’s Aviation and Drone Technology Program

Jan 24, 2025 - [Johnstown, PA] – As part of its mission to drive workforce development and prepare students for careers in aviation and drone technology, Aerium has announced a $50,000 donation to the Greater Johnstown Career and Technical Center (CTC). This contribution will enhance the CTC's aviation program with new equipment, training, and scholarship funds, representing a significant investment in regional students and toward the larger statewide goal of transforming the aviation education pipeline in Pennsylvania.The official check presentation took place at GJCTC, with state and local leaders, educators, and students gathering to celebrate the launch of this partnership.

Dr. Larry J. Nulton, Chairman of Aerium, emphasized the broader vision behind the donation. “Today’s investment is about much more than equipment—it’s about laying the groundwork for Pennsylvania’s future as a national leader in aviation and drone technology. By providing students with access to cutting-edge tools and industry-relevant training, we’re not just preparing them for careers—we’re fostering innovation and economic growth for our state.”

John Augustine, Administrative Director for the Greater Johnstown Career and Technical Center Kicks off the funding announcementAerium Chairman, Larry Nulton, provides insight into Aerium's MissionAerium Executive Director, Glenn Ponas, explains how the GJCTC can play a role in the "hub and spoke" model for aviation education in Pennsylvania

John Augustine, Administrative Director for the Greater Johnstown Career and Technical CenterState Senator Wayne Langerholc (R-35) speaks to stakeholders about the strength that collaboration brings to developing aviation workforce development

Devin Irvin, GJCTC HVAC Instructor, talks about the uses of drones in virtually every industry sectorPadraic Griffin, GJCTC student, explains how the Aerium donations will give him invaluable hands-on experienceState Representative Jim Rigby (R-71) talks about statewide impact of initiatives like Aerium

Aerium’s Executive Director, Glenn Ponas, spoke about the initiative’s educational impact. “This partnership exemplifies Aerium’s mission to equip schools with the resources, curriculum, and support they need to succeed. By fostering career pathways, we’re not only preparing students for future opportunities but also addressing critical workforce gaps in emerging industries.”

John Augustine, Director of GJCTC, underscored the local impact. “This investment provides our students with access to tools like drones and flight simulators, which translate directly into workforce-ready skills. By integrating this advanced technology into our curriculum, we’re creating new opportunities for students from Greater Johnstown and surrounding districts.”

Instructors shared their excitement about the program. Devan Irvin, GJCTC HVAC Instructor, remarked, “This program gives the students a chance to work with technology I never thought they’d have access to. Drones are used extensively in many career fields, including HVAC. I’m thrilled about the opportunities it will create for their future.”

State leaders praised the initiative for its role in fostering economic growth.

Senator Wayne Langerholc called Aerium’s donation a “vital step in preparing our students for emerging industries. By fostering partnerships between education and industry, we ensure Pennsylvania remains a leader in aviation and workforce readiness.”

Representative Jim Rigby echoed this sentiment, noting, “This partnership directly connects local talent with industry needs, paving the way for economic growth and job creation across our region and beyond.”

The celebration concluded with a demonstration of the new equipment in GJCTC’s state-of-the-art simulation lab. Students and educators showcased how the tools will accelerate career preparation, including drone operations, simulator-based flight hours, and readiness for FAA knowledge exams.

The GJCTC event is the first of several Aerium donation events across the state. Aerium supports multiple high school aviation programs across the state through its role as an Educational Improvement Organization in the state’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Program. 

Aerium’s comprehensive efforts statewide to create STEM and Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs that prepare students for aviation and aerospace careers demonstrate Aerium’s and Pennsylvania’s leadership in helping the industry overcome critical personnel shortages. Aerium continues to work closely with the Pennsylvania Department of Education and Career and Technical Centers across the state to revolutionize aviation CTE education. Recent successes include the statewide adoption of aviation Classification of Instructional Program Codes, Standard Occupation Classification Codes, High Priority Occupation Designation, and reasonable and rigorous teacher CTE certification standards for aviation programs.

For more information on how businesses, organizations, and individuals can participate in the EITC program to receive tax credits that help students realize their aviation and aerospace career dreams, please contact Aerium Executive Director Glenn Ponas at glenn@aerium.org.

Aerium is a philanthropic 501(c)(3) organization established to be a catalyst for change in the aviation sector, focusing on education, workforce development, and creating career opportunities for students in Pennsylvania.

Greater Johnstown Career and Technology Center is not your typical school. We are committed to ensuring student achievement in career and technical education and to leading our students and graduates to high-skill, high-wage employment. Our mission is to ensure student success, and our well-respected, quality programs create a positive impact on our community as we carry out this goal.