Student Spotlights Truck Driving Champions Alumni of all Stripes
In this issue:
News About the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics and the Aviation Industry
Winter 2010
Three Generations One General Consensus
G. Null
One Friday in July, three generations of PIA graduates graced us with a visit. Albert Greenaway (’47), Charles Baker (’72), and Scott Baker (’96) joined us for a tour and conversation. By coincidence, their tour came to town the same week that the B-17 Liberty Belle was making its travels around Pittsburgh. The summer rain held off long enough for a walk out in front of AGC’s terminal. Albert, a WWII B-17 top turret gunner, was given the chance to take us up into the bomber and talk about his experiences over Europe. He flew on the Mamie Yokum, a bomber that trained new aircrews just arriving in theater. Albert even got to sign the access hatch of the Liberty Belle, where his name joined the countless other signatures of past airmen who survived their bombing runs to meet up with this plane in the future. After WWII, Albert enrolled in PIA and received his A&P in 1947. He joined Capitol Airlines, was instrumental in PIA’s acquisition of the Vickers Viscount, ran an FBO with his nephew, and retired as a
pilot from United Airlines in 1980. Albert took advantage of the chance to continue his own love of aviation at PIA. Through his education here and the people he met through the school, he learned that there are many different aviation options out there. His advice to current and future students: Pay attention because everything you learn here you will use. His nephew Charles graduated from PIA in 1972. During this time, he would go to school all week followed by a fulltime job right after school until 11PM. He worked with his uncle at Pittstown Aviation in New Jersey for five years and moved on to Erie Airways. Today he is a Director of Maintenance for a corporate fleet in Meadville, PA. Charles, like his uncle, agrees that the general public has no idea how many aviation opportunities are out there for young men and women. Coming to PIA, he said, opened his eyes to these opportunities. Scott earned his Associates Degree and FCC GROL from PIA in 1996, differing slightly from his uncle’s and father’s A&P
shoes. Like his dad, Scott worked after school to pay his way. He originally went and worked as an avionics technician in North Carolina and is now an Avionics Specialist at Flight Options of Cleveland. Scott appreciates how PIA teaches its students to become productive workers. The schedule makes the student get up and off to school on time and prepared for a full day of activities. This led to an easy transition into full-time work. Each graduate was proud of this school and kept going back to one distinct point: lifelong learning. Albert, Charles, and Scott proclaimed a want and a need to learn something new everyday. Charles may have put it best by saying that all students come out of here with “a license to learn.” The foundations taught at PIA go far beyond just the course work. All told, this family has 90 years of aviation experience between them. We always welcome alumni to call, email, or stop in. Next time you find yourself in West Mifflin, make sure you come in for a visit.
(From left) PIA alumni Scott Baker, Charles Baker, and Albert Greenaway join us for a tour of the school and the B-17 “Liberty Belle.” Albert adds his name to the hatch where 60 years ago, he climbed to complete missions as the top turret gunner. All three of them noted how much things have changed since they attended, but each was also happy that the foundation that PIA has been built upon has not been touched. EDITORIAL STAFF CONTRIBUTORS: Todd Kruszka & Greg Null, Co-Editors Brian Allen, Randy Davis, David Hevel, Frank Klatte, James Frank Bria, Associate Editor/Photography/Layout Mader, Suzanne Markle, Robert Marshall Cover Shot: PIA’s newest acquisition is thoroughly checked out by the Youngstown campus students. For more information, see the article on page 9. (photo by John Graham III)
2 Technician
Alumni Spotlight: Michael Mascia Charles Taylor Award winner Michael Mascia has kept busy since he graduated in August 1961. Right out of school, he worked for Mohawk Airlines and then followed the mergers (Mohawk to Allegheny to USAir) all across New York, back to Pittsburgh, and finally landing in Orlando, FL. He retired in 1992. The story does not end there. Mr. Mascia wanted to keep busy so he volunteered at the Sun N Fun Museum in Lakeland, FL. He was put in charge of aircraft restoration and has many aircraft to his credit: a SE-5 WWI replica and an OX-5A proudly hanging in the Lakeland Linder terminal building, an Aeronca LB that sits in the museum, and an R3350 engine for display to name a few. On top of this, Mr. Mascia is also involved with the FAA National Resource Center where he works the cameras, microphones, and other equipment for the FAA Safety Team (FAAST) weekend web show. This show covers all aspects of aviation safety and can be watched live via the internet every Monday at 11:00AM EST. Go to www.faasafety.gov for more information. Mr. Mascia’s Taylor award was well deserved. His love of aviation led to a long career and many volunteer hours. He is proud of his education at PIA and we are happy to hear from him. What is the Charles Taylor Award?
Michael Mascia (Aug ’61) stands next to the Aeronca LB that he restored for the Sun N’ Fun Museum in Lakeland, FL.
Touch-N-Go After 39 years with United Airlines, Jim Blackhurst (Dec.’48) retired as a Supervisor of Aircraft Inspection in 1990. Since then he has been building and flying RC aircraft, shooting photos, and honing his flying skills on computer flight simulators. After graduating from PIA, Mark Richter (Oct. ‘70) was immediately drafted in the US Army and was an instructor for the computer repair of the launch system. After much traveling with both United and Evergreen, Mark is now an FAA Inspector at FSDO Chicago. Ralph Rice (May ’72) is a Quality Assurance Specialist with the NAVICP-Mechanicsburg, PA and has moved from inspecting military aircraft to submarines! He retired from the PA National Guard after 21 years (and numerous deployments) of keeping CH-47, CH-54, and
Charles Taylor was the Wright Brothers mechanic, making him the first aviation maintenance technician. Those eligible for this honor must pass the following criteria: 1. US citizen 2. Worked for a period of 50 years in aircraft maintenance 3. Valid FAA A&P certificate
PIA scholarships
Wish to nominate such a technician? Review AC65-26C for additional requirements.
Outside awards:
OH-58 helicopters flying. Dennis Ludlow (Aug. ’72) retired from the Indiana Army National Guard in 2005 after serving as an Aircraft Maintenance Systems Supervisor in Bosnia. Retirement has brought him more time to be with his grandchildren and a chance to work on his 1956 Chevrolet street rod. Martin Cunningham (July ‘82) just celebrated his 26 years at Pratt and Whitney Aircraft in E. Hartford, CT. Currently he holds the title of Senior Configuration Management Specialist and is also Chair of the Manufacturing Change Board for all military engine programs. Michael Cooper (Mar. ‘04) now leads the Fedex A300-600 and A310 lines at Timco in Greensboro, NC. Check out other Prestigious Grads on our website. www.pia.edu/prestigious-grads. html
• 2009 Memorial Scholarships were awarded to Richard Hanzel, George Masavage and Ashley Turnbull • William J. Graham Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Jonathan Kiser • George Warmbrod Scholarships were awarded to Chase Denny, Daniel McKenzie, Joseph Rodriguez, and Kane Wallick • Ronald Benaquisto Scholarship went to Ashley Turnbull • Richard Hanzel Giant Eagle Education Assistance Program • Jonathan Kiser The Aviation Foundation • Shawn Smith Helicopter Association International Scholarship • Brian Brunner ATEC 2009 Student of the Year • Whitney Oppe and Lydia Daniels ATEC scholarships Winter 2010 3
PIA BECOMES AN NCATT ACCREDITED TRAINING PROVIDER
F. Klatte
In March of 2009, PIA’s Aviation Electronics Technician (AET) Program was found worthy of recognition for meeting or exceeding industry needs by the National Center for Aerospace and Transportation Technologies (NCATT). This makes PIA one of only eleven NCATT Accredited Training Providers across the country. NCATT is an industry-driven organization created to establish standards and
B. Allen
certifications for training in aerospace and transportation disciplines. NCATT has a working relationship with more than twenty industry partners. These partners include major air carriers, aircraft companies, powerplant manufacturers, avionics manufacturers, and aviation maintenance operations. These partners serve as subject matter experts in the development of standards and certifications.
Gas Grill Challenge Technical people cannot stop themselves from trying to improve things. When looking over the school’s gas grill, which is used to cook hotdogs and hamburgers at school events, Mr. Chuck Boles thought that PIA deserves a stylish, oneof-a-kind grill that can cook lots of food at one time. We have decided to turn this challenge over to our alumni. Send us a three view (orthographic) drawing of your design for PIA’s grill and, if your design is chosen, PIA will send you a $50 gift card.
IA Renewal Course Seminar
The grilling surface should be 3’x5’ and do not worry about designing burners. Send your name, contact information and plans to “The Gas Grill Challenge” c/o PIA, PO Box 10987, Pittsburgh, PA 15236. The competition will close on Feb 28, 2010. Good luck!
Think about this..., No one ever says “It’s only a game” when his team is winning.
During the past two years we have held an IA Renewal Course Seminar here at the main campus with great success. We’re no stranger to this type of training and we even offered this renewal training in the past. We decided to get back involved with this training again after the new regulation for IA’s was implemented and our local FSDO was glad to help. I began planning for the first seminar that we held on February 22, 2008, better than nine months prior to the event, which was a complete success. We had over sixty in attendance for that session. After the final closing remarks, I asked all those in attendance to complete the survey form to be used for an evaluation and review on the course content and performance. It was well received by all with the comment section that was full of requests to continue this training on a yearly basis. As in the previous seminar, I began planning the next event while working with our local FSDO to ensure validity as well as updates and changes to foster as much learning during the next event. All of this would not be possible without the assistance of each of the volunteer guest speaker which enables us to produce a quality show at a minimal cost. To be more specific, the fee we charged allows us to supply all the materials needed during the event in addition to providing a continental breakfast followed by a delicious lunch for the crowd. Here at PIA, we are always looking to provide a quality service to the aviation community and we take pride in our excellence in educational services. If you have an idea for a topic that would benefit the community at large be it aviation or another technology, feel free to contact us to see if we can be of assistance. I once read an article that stated that learning is an on-going process, and as I chase my older years, I see how true it is.
IAs from all over the area converged at PIA for the 2009 IA Renewal course. The inspectors not only learned the newest trends in the field, but also had the chance to meet and network with other aviation maintenance professionals.
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The long way to a degree B Marshall- June 2009
Editor’s note: Bob Marshall is known around campus for his kindness and work ethic. He earned the right to speak at graduation as the June 2009 Class Salutatorian. The following is his speech. I would like to thank all of our family and friends for coming today and showing your support for us graduates. Most everyone here has made sacrifices to help us get to where we are today. Special thanks to the great PIA staff for all their help. There is not one request I have made that was put off or turned down by these fine educators. Even if I did not have them for any classes, they went out of their way to help me. It has taken all of us a long time to get here---in my case, it was been a very long time. I started here at PIA way back in 1969 and dropped out before finishing. Here I am, 40 years later finally standing on this stage. There has not been a week
go by in those 40 years that I didn’t think about what I would be doing if I had just finished this school. In history class last year we talked about the first moon walk in July 1969. I thought about it for a minute and realized—heck, I was a student here when that happened. That’s not history. That’s current events! A lot has happened since 1969 but one thing remains the same. Every graduate here has dreams and visions of the future. In these tough economic times, it is not going to be easy, but with hard work and persistence, I know we all can be successful in our chosen career. I would now like to thank my family, my friends, and my fellow classmates that have accepted me and made me feel young again, you would have to spend some time with these guys to know what I mean, right, Mr. Nicholson? And thanks again to the awesome PIA staff that made it all come together here on our graduation day.
Bob Marshall (June ’09) addresses his classmates at graduation.
One last thought: when things look like they are never going to work out the way you planned, just remember the “old guy” you graduated with; it all worked out for him. Set you goals high and never give up on your dreams.
PIA and Mountain State: More Options for Continuing Your Education J. Mader
Because of a special agreement between the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics and Mountain State University, credits from a PIA degree can be applied at no cost toward a bachelor’s degree in either aviation or leadership. The agreement allows PIA alumni to transfer up to 67 credits from PIA toward a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in aviation, or 61 credits toward a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership (B.S.O.L.). Those with additional college credits may be eligible to transfer up to 80 hours into either program. The B.S. in aviation focuses on current and projected industry needs as it provides preparation for advancement in aviation management and flight operations. Much of the coursework for the program is available through individualized study, in which students learn at their own pace
under the direction of a faculty member. The organizational leadership degree program is designed to provide a broadbased understanding of organizational dynamics along with skills in critical thinking, problem solving, and decision making. It is offered at MSU’s Center Township campus and online in a convenient format with one evening a week in the classroom (real or virtual) and additional assignments and projects between sessions. MSU is an accredited university and is approved by PHEAA to offer financial aid to qualifying students. For additional information, visit MSU’s website at www.mountainstate.edu, or contact Enrollment Coordinator Betsy Kubacki at MSU Center Township by phone (866.656.9400) or e-mail (bkubacki @ mountainstate.edu).
Upcoming Continuing Education Schedule Sheet Metal: Contact instructor Creighton Bryan (412-346-2171) Composite Course: Contact instructor Tom O’Keefe (412-346-2159) Composite Seminar: Contact instructor Tom O’Keefe (412-346-2159) IA Authorization: Mar 13, 2010 contact Brian Allen (412-346-2168) Winter 2010 5
A Family Affair T. Kruszka
and hopes for a career working with jet propulsion in the future. “His education at PIA benefited him at Purdue. He was chosen for the internship because he was the only one in his class with an A&P license.”
The Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics is a school rooted in tradition. Only 26 years after the Wright brothers took flight, the school was founded in 1929. In December of 1944, William Graham bought half of the company. PIA has stayed in the Graham family until this day and looks to continue that way. That is not all. Seven current employees of this institute have recognized PIA’s dedication to excellence and watched as their own children graduated from the school. Those former students have gone on to great things. Instructors Randy Reynolds and Tom O’Keefe, along with High School representative Bob Allison, financial officer Donata Clark, and Assistant to the President Peg Jackson all had sons that attended PIA. More amazingly, Warren Guthrie had two sons attend PIA while Dean of Students Dr. Mader had three. While it might sound like PIA is filled with overprotective parents that brought their children here to keep an eye on them, it is not the case. Each of these parents stated that they might have encouraged their sons to attend PIA, but none of them were forced. “I exposed him to it but he decided in the 7th grade to become an aircraft technician.” Bob Allison said. His son, Ryan, is currently working as a flight line technician at Chautauqua Airlines. “It was his idea, but there’s no doubt I marketed it” said Peg Jackson, whose son graduated in October 2008. “I knew it would be good for him because he was involved in NHRA drag racing since he was nine and wanted to work with something mechanical.” Jackson’s son, Scott, is working on Blackhawk helicopters. He recently interviewed at L3 Aviation to continue doing more of the same type of work there. After graduating, he has definitely had job security. “He said going to the local gas station is like going to the class reunion. [He’s leaving his] $17 an hour job for a $20 an hour job in Kentucky,” said Jackson. Scott isn’t the only one still working in aviation. 6 Technician
Dr. Mader’s son Adam has left aviation, but Dr. Mader knows the time at PIA worked out for the better anyway. “It was a good move, even though he changed his mind about being in aviation, he learned a lot.” (From left) Jim Delancey, Walt Delancey, and Office Manager Peg Jackson congratulate Scott Delancey (Oct ‘08). Scott joins a long line of graduates who have attended their parents’ workplace for a great education.
Warren Guthrie, whose two sons graduated from PIA in 1986 and 1996 respectively, have had long and storied careers in aviation. One Guthrie boy started as an AMT and the other as an AET, but both eventually did a double ticket. The older son, Todd, spent 20 years at Delta, and now works with ETOPS certified aircraft for Airborne Express. The younger son, Douglas, has worked all over the field, having held jobs with Timco, TWA, and Northwest. He now works at Delta as a lead technician. ``The boys have done alright with their training at PIA. They’ve been coming here since they were kids, so I knew they would end up working in aviation.”
As long as PIA stands, a steady stream of eager technicians will flow through its halls, and a few of them will know their mom or dad’s encouragement isn’t far away.
Photographer Chris Wawro and the PIA calendar PIA is proud to deliver 2010’s edition of the PIA Aviation Calendar. Chris Wawro lent his expertise in aircraft photography to the project. In this series, Wawro photographed WWII-era aircraft with transparent cowling so the viewer can see both the engine and airframe. All of the aircraft’s engines are visible in the pictures, making for an interesting calendar. For more on Wawro and his photography, go online to www.aero-fotografik.com.
PIA graduates have made it into all parts of the aviation field. Tom O’Keefe’s son, Tom Junior, has made it into the skies as a television technician with the Goodyear blimp. Dr. Mader’s stepson Bryan is a fixed base operator, while his younger son Brett works as an AMT at Pratt and Whitney. While PIA graduates almost always have the opportunity to go straight into aviation, some choose to continue their education or take another route. Donata Clark’s son, Daniel, is attending Purdue University studying Aeronautical Engineering. He has a summer internship
Chris Wawro’s interesting photos grace the 2010 calendar. For more information on Chris and his work, go to www.aero-fotografik.com
Using PIA’s Placement Services G. Null
As an alumnus of PIA, you can receive on-going placement services. This service is absolutely free. At any time during your work life, you can contact us for help or advice. Due to the economic conditions that started last fall and still follow us today, there has been an uptick in alumni contacting PIA’s placement office. At one point, the figure hovered around 20 new alumni contacts per month. As the Placement Supervisor, I have attempted to keep all interested alumni informed of job openings, on-campus interviews, and job fairs. In these challenging times, information is very important. So what can we do for you? Resume review: Any alumnus can email, fax, or drop off a resume for review. If you are having trouble updating or creating a resume, I suggest that you contact me and set up an appointment. If you no longer live in the Pittsburgh area, we can talk over the phone too. It is also important that I have your updated resume on file.
tion date and you will be added to the list. Make sure that this email does not accidentally get sent to the junk mail! PIA’s Blog: This is the newest weapon in our arsenal. The weblog on our website can inform you about different happenings at PIA plus it too will include job information. By clicking on the “tags” at the bottom of each post, you can even sort through the entries to find AMT or AET only jobs. The blog is dynamic so we ask you to join in on the conversation. Type in www.pia.edu/blog and send your comments. Scheduling: All year long, employers contact me with opportunities. Some employers set up on-campus interviews, where both students and alumni can come here to learn about the company and then interview with recruiters. Other employers cannot make the trip and would rather review resumes. Still others ask us to pass their website along so alumni can apply. Every November and March, a job fair is planned in either Pittsburgh or Youngstown, OH, and all alumni are invited and encouraged to come. As with all interviews, bring your resume and come dressed for success.
Write for this publication: Whether it is an article on your company or your coworkers, or an update in our Touch-N-Go column, let us know by emailing gnull@ pia.edu, calling 412.346.2101 or writing to Technician, 5 Allegheny County Airport, West Mifflin, PA 15122. Donate: PIA is a non-profit institution that strives to teach the next generation of aviation professionals. If you were helped through the Placement office or just proud of your education here, consider making a donation to our scholarship fund or join us in September for the golf outing. Any amount helps. If your employer has some equipment that they wish to get rid of, tell him or her to donate to PIA. As a 501(c)(3), all donations are tax-deductible. Contact Steve Sabold (ssabold@pia.edu/ 412.346.2122) for the golf outing and Frank Bria (fbria@pia. edu / 412.346.2136) for equipment donations. Above all, hang in there, be patient, and keep in touch. When you graduated from here, you earned this.
Career counseling: There may be times during your career when you are worried about possible layoffs, transfers, or other changes. If you need someone to discuss these issues with, feel free to contact the Placement office. I strive to keep on top of aviation and related-industry news and may be able to offer suggestions such as continuing your education, relocating, or moving up the career ladder.
This is how PIA can help you. So how can you help PIA?
Up-to-date job opportunities: When an employer contacts the office with opportunities, this is how I get it to you: Facebook- If you have a Facebook account, befriend PIA PLACEMENT for the most up-to-date job information and schedules.
Companies Hiring Our Technicians
Email Blasts: Once a week, I send out a mass email detailing the week’s opportunities, along with a schedule of on-campus interviews, and other resources that you may find helpful. Send gnull@pia. edu an email with your name and gradua-
Keep us posted: Is your employer hiring? Talk to your HR representative and have them give me a call (gnull@pia.edu /412.346.2101). Or let us know personally about how we can get our alumni and students involved.
Tell me, and I’ll forget. Show me, and I may not remember. Involve me, and I’ll understand. -Native American proverb
Chautauqua Airlines: Columbus, OH • Corporate Air: West Mifflin, PA • Custom Hydraulics: Burgettstown, PA • Delta Airlines: Atlanta, GA • Dynamic Aviation: Bridgewater, VA • Dyncorp International: Lothian, MD • ExpressJet: Shreveport, LA • Gulfstream International Airlines: Dubois, PA and Ft. Lauderdale, FL • L-3 Communications: Lexington, KY • Life Net Helicopters: Portsmouth, OH • Lockheed Martin Aeroparts: Johnstown, PA • Piedmont Airlines: Salisbury, MD • Port Authority of Allegheny County: Pittsburgh, PA • Rivers Casino: Pittsburgh, PA • Schweizer Aircraft: Horseheads, NY • Super Laundry: Ambridge, PA • Winner Aviation: Youngstown, OH • Trans States Airlines: Washington, DC Want to see exactly where our grads are working? Search “PIA Grads are Working” in Google Maps to see a complete list.
Winter 2010 7
Employee Anniversaries!
Frank Bria
Frank Bria, Director of Publications and Facilities, is celebrating his 40th year with PIA. Mr. Bria originally came to PIA to work in the print shop where he helped crank out all of PIA’s manuals, workbooks, and paperwork. He took over the publications department in 1984 and has overseen this and daily maintenance around the Pittsburgh campus. Mr. Bria is active with this publication and has many of the photographs within these pages and is the creator of the PIA calendar that is sent to our staff, alumni. and employers. Always an aviation lover, he holds an A&P with Inspection Authorization and is a commercial pilot with a single engine land & sea, multiengine land, instrument airplane ratings and is a member of the Deer Lakes Pilots Club. He lives in Aspinwall with his wife and two cats.
Bill Dudash is celebrating 20 years at PIA. During this time, he has been honored with several awards and distinctions including the Pratt & Whitney Aviation Maintenance Facility Award for contributing to international aviation maintenance. Dudash has also developed several technical workbooks for PIA and developed and taught courses on composites and sheet metal. Prior to his career at PIA, Mr. Dudash was a member of the United States Air Force where he was trained as a specialist in field level fabrication and repairs of metals and aircraft systems. During his time in the Air Force, Dudash worked on a variety of different aircraft and missions. Prior to this, he was employed with the Hanlon & Wilson Company as an aircraft welder. He is now an instructor at the Youngstown campus.
Bill Dudash
Dave Koehler, one of PIA’s electronics and instruments instructors, is known for the breadth and depth of his lessons. Few may know that Mr. Koehler, now celebrating his tenth year at PIA, climbed North America’s highest summit of Mt. McKinley in 1986. After a career that began with auto repair, he enrolled at PIA and graduated in 1992 with both an avionics and aviation maintenance degree. He worked up from a line mechanic to maintenance controller to Manager of Planning and Records, before joining the faculty at PIA. Mr. Koehler still enjoys working on cars and is President of the Washington County Model Aviation Association. Dave Koehler
Peg Jackson has been at PIA for ten years working as the Office Manager and now Assistant to the President. Some of her responsibilities include running board meetings, technical support, employee events and compliance reporting. Mrs. Jackson also helped start and is chairperson of the PIA Golf Outing that raises funds for scholarships at the school. The outing has taken place for nine years now and has raised over $30,000 for the scholarship fund. Before coming to PIA, Mrs. Jackson worked for an engineering firm for ten years. She holds a degree in Accounting and is working towards her bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management.
Suzanne Markle
Peg Jackson
Suzanne Markle, Director of Admissions, celebrates her 10th employment anniversary with PIA. She began her tenure with PIA as a member of the instructional staff in 1999, and since then has worked in a number of capacities throughout the organization, including program development and regulatory compliance. She served as Director of Placement from 2005 until 2008, when she was appointed to her current role overseeing the Admissions department. Mrs. Markle received her undergraduate degree in Secondary Education from California University of Pennsylvania, and her Master of Business Administration degree from Seton Hill University. She currently resides in Belle Vernon, PA, with her husband, Dave, and daughter, Sydney.
Randy Reynolds, the director of PIA’s Youngstown campus, celebrates his 10 year anniversary too. Mr. Reynolds, a Vietnam and Gulf War veteran, served in the US Air Force for 24 years, starting as a C-130 crew chief and DC-9 taxi instructor. For twelve of those years, he was stationed at Andrews Air Force Base as the crew chief of Air Force-2, the aircraft that transports the US Vice President. He oversaw the jet through the Ronald Reagan and George HW Bush terms. After retiring, he began his own security firm before joining the faculty at PIA. For the last three years, Mr. Reynolds has served as the first Campus Director at our Youngstown campus. Randy Reynolds
Sue Veverka has been a math and aviation history instructor at PIA for the last five years. Prior to this, she held teaching positions at Baldwin High School, Bethel Park High School, Robert Morris University, and the Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC). She has also worked as a cost accountant, an income tax preparer, and a free-lance accounting consultant. Mrs. Veverka has a master’s degree in Business Education and a bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Robert Morris University. Sue Veverka
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Student Spotlights Do Italian Gelato and electronics go together? They do if you are behind the counter. Anthony Mercurio’s family runs Mercurio’s Mulberry Creamery in Pittsburgh’s Shadyside neighborhood. When he is not “spading” [scooping] the store’s famous gelato, he is troubleshooting electronics at PIA. His store’s website is http://www. mulberrystreetcreamery.com/ 1. What is gelato? A. Gelato is a popular dessert in Italy. Gelato means frozen and is different than ice cream: it is smoother, creamier, contains less butter fat, calories and carbohydrates. The ingredients are pasteurized egg yolk, milk, sugar, and fresh fruit. 2. Why electronics and not the family shop? A. I have always been interested in electronics, but my curiosity only took me so far. I decided to go to college for electrical engineering, but that wasn’t what I wanted to do either. I wanted to take over the family business. However it is important to continue your education. So I looked for a program where I could learn electronics in a one-on-one environment and a schedule where I could still run my store. 3. Is there anything that you learned from gelato that helped you at PIA? Or vice versa? A. Gelato and electronics are very different but work together, since you need electronics to run machines and appliances. With running a business and going to school, it is important that I manage my time. Also, when working in the food industry and with electronics, you need to learn patience. Take your time and don’t screw up.
make and the time you spend at PIA. Second Quarter AMT E.J. Esposito has a future maintaining aircraft, but he also has a history with another high-speed machine: the dirt bike. Esposito is an accomplished arenacross racer (indoor motocross). The Technician sat down with Esposito for a few minutes to talk about his participation in the sport. 1. How long have you been racing? A. Eight years. I started when I was twelve years old. The first time I rode, I broke both my fibula and tibia, but I still loved doing it.
4. Where do you see yourself going with arenacross racing in the future? A. Nowhere, really. It’s really just for enjoyment now that I’m a full time student. I haven’t raced in a long time. I’m worried about hurting myself and missing too much time here at PIA. 5. If you did have the chance to race professionally, though, would you take it? A. In a heartbeat. Esposito plans to continue competing, but his next race is not scheduled.
2. What is your biggest accomplishment as a racer? A. Definitely going to Las Vegas for the U.S. Open Toyota Arenacross Series. I was ranked fourth in the east, so I got to go out there and compete. I took ninth place. 3. How did you get into racing? A. My dad rode bikes. It was always something that was around the house. I got my first motorbike when I was seven or eight.
(From left) PIA students Anthony Mercurio and EJ Esposito.
From the Cover: This issue’s cover shot is of a 1977 Cessna 150, which was donated by Barbara J. Fausnight from Akron, OH. After some help from Ultimate Air Center, our fearless pilot David Board, and others, the 150 made its way to our Youngstown campus. This workhouse will be used for taxi training, 100 hour inspections, and other projects. The photo also points to just how much the campus has grown over the last few years. With a school director, three full-time instructors, and three classes running at the facility, hangar #3 is one busy place. The third YNG class will graduate in December. Right now the student population is steady at 45 students and we look forward to its continued growth and success.
4. Any wisdom you would like to pass down to future AET students? A. I will say make sure you work hard and try not to miss a lot of time. As a business owner, I know how important attendance can be. I have fired employees for showing up late or leaving early. I have enjoyed the teachers, students, and the friends you
PIA’s newest piece of project-ready equipment stands in front of the Youngstown campus hangar.
Winter 2010 9
Short term training for long term success: PIA’s Jump Start Division S. Markle
PIA’s Jump Start division consists of short-duration training programs which prepare students for new careers. Unlike the 2-year degree programs offered through PIA’s School of Specialized Technology, the Jump Start programs begin and end in as little as 4 weeks. The Jump Start division offers Professional Truck Driver (CDL) and Heavy Equipment Operator training, as well as instruction delivered via computer, such as Medical Office Assistant, Microsoft Office Professional, and Network Support Technician programs. Currently, there are five Jump Start training cen-
ters: One at PIA’s main campus, and four throughout the state of West Virginia. The current economic situation in the United States has made the value of an education that much more apparent, and the school has seen an influx of individuals who are looking to receive training and get back into the workforce as soon as possible. The Jump Start programs provide just what they need – high-quality training to quickly qualify them for employment. Those interested in learning more about PIA’s Jump Start division can contact the Admissions Office at 1-800-480-3003.
PIA CDL Instructor leads the way! R. Davis
The Mid-Atlantic Professional Truck Drivers Association held its annual 2009 Charity Fun Drive Truck Driving Competition in Lexington, Va. on September 12. This rodeo was formed to promote the professionalism and safety of commercial truck drivers, while improving driving skills, encouraging friendly relations among drivers, and promoting good will toward the trucking industry. Mid-Atlantic Professional Truck driving competition, held in Lexington, VA, benefits the Make-A-Wish Foundation and involves a course of ten (10) skills tests and an optional pre-trip inspection. Drivers from across the country come to compete for prizes and awards. Anthony Wright, Senior Lead Instructor for PIA Jump Start Programs, has competed in this event for the last couple of years. This year Anthony won First Place in the 5- axle class (tractor and 48 ft trailer combination).
PIA’s Jumpstart CDL driver training program uses Freightliner trucks and 48-foot trailers, just like those used throughout the US. These classes are available at the Pittsburgh campus plus our Charleston, Weirton, and Clarksburg, WV locations.
PIA’s Heavy Equipment in use. These classes are available at the Pittsburgh and Clarksburg, WV campuses.
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Anthony scored 320 points out of a possible perfect score of 500. Second Place score was a 310 and third place was 250 points. Anthony was competing against drivers from Yellow/Roadway, WalMart, Conway Freight and many others who drive everyday for a living. Way to go, Anthony!
PIA Lead CDL Instructor Anthony Wright won the 5-Axle Class (tractor and 48-foot trailer) Skills Competition.
National Drving Championships J. Mader
The David L. Lawrence Convention Center sits along the southern bank of the Allegheny River, its sloping silver roof offering an extraordinary addition to the Pittsburgh skyline. As one drives across the Veteran’s Bridge from the North Side, the Convention Center overshadows the landscape, its reflection glistening dominantly in the river. It is here that the 75-year old American Trucking Associations (ATA), Inc. decided to conduct its 2009 National Truck Driving Championships. David L. Lawrence’s cavernous modern interior is a perfect fit for the long courses, hyped up driving fans, and electronic scoring displays needed for the competition. For four days, from August 19 through August 22, the Convention Center provided the ideal venue for determining the Nation’s best drivers in nine different categories. The National Truck Driving Championships have very little to do with speed – this isn’t a NASCAR event. The competition is all about accuracy and safety. Champions from all 50 states plus Canada and Mexico participate. Drivers must maneuver through a course set up to test their abilities to steer between obstacles that allow only inches of clearance, turn on a dime (or, in this case, a plastic duck),
back into a stall that is only a few centimeters wider than their trailer, stop at an exact distance from a faux railroad crossing, and overcome the pressure that goes with competing for a national title. If a driver is able to negotiate the course and its six tests, perfectly, s/he receives a score of 300 points. Each day, participants with the highest scores advance to the next round of competition, and each day, the test course is changed. Fans faithful to individual companies, like YCR, Con-way Freight, ABF, and Pitt-Ohio, or to their home state driving champions, cheer their support as the competitors carefully work their way through the test courses. As each driver completes his/her turn, loyal followers wait patiently to see the points totals light up on the electronic scoreboard. Waiting anxiously in areas cordoned off by thick dark curtains are the upcoming contestants. They can hear the action, but have no way of seeing the course and its tests prior to entering the competition area. Surprisingly enough, the Convention Center’s state-of-the art ventilation system keeps contestants and fans alike from being exposed to exhaust fumes, even though there are a number of trucks operating at any given moment.
The rubber duckie is spared in this exercise where the driver must get as close to it without hitting it. From the cab, the driver cannot see how far his/her wheels are from the tail feathers. Only experience gets the truck this close.
PIA Jumpstart Dean Randy Davis judges the events at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh, PA.
Thanks in part to the efforts of former PIA Truck Driving Dean and current Director of Safety for the Arizona Trucking Association, John Backowski, and thanks in part to their experience at the state level of competition, PIA Jump Start Dean Randy Davis, and Senior Lead Instructor Anthony Wright, were selected to the panel of judges for the 2009 event. They helped whittle the field down to the group of finalists who competed on Saturday, eventually resulting in winners in the various categories. As if to illustrate that Pennsylvania is still the home of champions (Steelers, Phillies, Penguins), Robert J. Dolan, a driver for Con-way Freight, and representing the Keystone State in the Straight Truck Category, won his event, and was crowned as one of the nine National Champions. PIA hopes to some day see one of its own graduates win a National Truck Driving Championship. In the mean time, the school will continue to support the ATA with judges and volunteers whenever the event is within a reasonable distance. Next year’s championships will be held in Columbus, Ohio. If you can make it, come watch the competition. Have some fun, and cheer for the plastic ducks (or cheer against them!). There is no entrance fee. Hopefully, Mr. Davis and Mr. Wright will see you there. Winter 2010 11
Technician Trivia #1 Miss Pittsburgh, the famous Waco 9 air mail plane that was refurbished at PIA and now hangs in the Pittsburgh International Airport, had two “sister planes.” What were their names? _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ AND _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ N T F F D J HMR F E J B M NTFF NXOZZFI JKE Remember that N = M and O = K. The first person to accurately answer the question will receive PIA merchandise. Email gnull@pia.edu with your answer today!
Will You Be At Airventure 2010? For the last three years, PIA has gathered its students and staff for a photo under the arch. This year, we want all alumni in attendance to join us! If you will be at the EAA Airventure in Oshkosh, WI next year on July 30 and would like to join us, contact Butch Adams at 1-800-444-1440 or badams@pia.edu. Have your shirt size ready and we will see you under the arch in 2010!
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Mail your $14.95 donation to Cliff Ball Wing OX-5, DVD Dept, PO Box 18561, Pittsburgh, PA 15236.
412-346-2100 • Fax 412-466-0513 • 1-800-444-1440 • www.pia.edu
This 1927 OX-5-powered Waco 9 was flown on the first airmail flight from Pittsburgh to Cleveland on April 21, 1927 and has been on exhibit at PIT since 1995. This high quality DVD makes a great gift and can round out your aviation history video library.
Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics P.O. Box 10897 Pittsburgh PA 15236
The Cliff Ball Wing of the OX-5 Club has chronicled the acquisition, removal, transportation, and the PIA restoration of Miss PittsburghN2574. This documentary closes with the installation of Miss Pittsburgh at the Pittsburgh International Airport landside terminal.
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