November 15, 1999
US Airways Presents Mayor Williams with Pratt & Whitney Jet Engine for University of the District of Columbia's Technology Program
(Arlington, VA) Mayor Anthony A. Williams joined by University of the District of Columbia's President, Julius Nimmons, was presented with a jet engine by US Airways Chairman Stephen M. Wolf. The Pratt & Whitney JT8D jet engine was donated for students of U.D.C's Aerospace Technology Program during a presentation at Reagan National Airport.
The jet engine was removed from service on May 14, 1999 and was presented to Mayor Williams exactly 23 years after entering service on a new DC-9 aircraft on November 15, 1976. The engine and a corresponding CD-ROM repair manual will allow the students the opportunity for hands-on training to execute a range of aircraft engine repairs and maintenance activities.
"I am pleased that this public/private partnership with US Airways has come to such a wonderful opportunity for students of this program," said Mayor Williams. "The donation of this jet engine is just one example of how these types of partnerships can be beneficial to the education of our students at U.D.C and to the citizens of the District in the long run. I look forward to a lasting relationship with US Airways."
The Aerospace Technology program at the University of the District of Columbia started in 1967 in Hangar 10 at Washington National Airport as part of the Washington Technical Institute. The program has since moved to Hangar 2 at Reagan National Airport. The program owns seven airplanes and several million dollars worth of aviation equipment.
"I feel strongly about the importance of education and I feel strongly about giving an opportunity to those who seek to better their lot in life. That is what UDC is all about and that is what this program is all about. They represent the best of both ideals and that is why it is important for us to support them," said Chairman Wolf.
Past graduates of the Aerospace Technology program that are currently employed by US Airways were also on hand for the presentation. This event marked a new relationship between the District Government and one of the area's largest employers.
