Duncan Family Trust Endows WMU Aviation Professorship

The Duncan Aviation Family Trust has established an endowed professorship at Western Michigan University’s (WMU) College of Aviation, creating a permanent faculty position focused on technical operations education, research, and curriculum development.

“Duncan Aviation understands the strength of this industry depends on how well we prepare the next generation of technical operations professionals,” said Raymond Thompson, dean of WMU’s College of Aviation. “This professorship will strengthen our ability to deliver the kind of education that connects directly to the needs of the field.”

Named the J. Robert Duncan Endowed Professorship of Technical Operations in honor of Duncan Aviation chairman emeritus Robert Duncan, the position will support academic pathways at WMU, including a technical leadership track within the existing aviation technical operations bachelor’s program. It will also support a technical leadership certificate and a future graduate program in maintenance leadership. The gift was made in conjunction with WMU’s Giving Day in March.

“WMU’s aviation program is recognized internationally for its leadership in aviation education and serves as an essential element in Duncan Aviation’s talent pipeline,” said Andy Richards, COO of Duncan Aviation’s Michigan operations. “As the industry expands in scope and complexity, WMU has consistently demonstrated a steadfast commitment to excellence. Despite being a highly technical field, our industry relies on the talent and passion of its people to drive progress.”

Duncan Aviation and WMU have maintained a formal partnership since 2008, when Duncan established an aviation maintenance internship program for WMU students. A maintenance scholarship followed in 2014. Both organizations have a presence at Battle Creek Executive Airport (KBTL).