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The Duncan Aviation Family Trust has established the J. Robert Duncan Endowed Professorship of Technical Operations at Western Michigan University's College of Aviation, marking the first endowed professorship in the college's history.
This initiative builds upon a decades-long Duncan Aviation legacy of actively investing in the future of business aviation. Guided by genuine care and support from the Duncan family, for the business aviation community, Duncan Aviation takes a long-term approach to advancing the industry, ensuring the next generation of technical leaders is equipped to excel.
Named in honor of Duncan Aviation Chairman Emeritus Robert Duncan, the professorship reflects his longstanding commitment to developing people, strengthening technical expertise, and advancing the business aviation industry. The permanent faculty position will support education, research, curriculum development, and leadership in aviation technical operations.
"Duncan Aviation is thrilled to collaborate with Western Michigan University's College of Aviation," said Andy Richards, Chief Operating Officer of Duncan Aviation's Michigan operations. "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. As the industry expands in scope and complexity, WMU has consistently demonstrated a steadfast commitment to excellence. We value this exceptional institution as our partner."
The Endowed Professor of Technical Operations will help keep WMU's programs aligned with the evolving needs of aircraft operators, maintenance organizations, manufacturers, and regulators. Areas of focus will include aviation maintenance leadership, safety systems, regulatory frameworks, technical management, and operational best practices.
The position will also provide students with mentorship and greater access to experienced aviation professionals who understand the real-world demands of maintaining and supporting modern aircraft.
"This is a meaningful investment in our students and our college," said Dr. Raymond Thompson, Dean of WMU's College of Aviation. "Duncan Aviation understands the strength of this industry depends on how well we prepare the next generation of technical operations professionals. This professorship will strengthen our ability to deliver the kind of education that connects directly to the needs of the field."
The professorship will support the development of several new academic pathways, including a technical leadership pathway within the aviation technical operations bachelor's degree program, an aviation technical leadership certificate, and a future graduate program in aviation maintenance leadership.
These programs are intended to prepare professionals who can combine hands-on technical expertise with the leadership, communication, and decision-making skills required to manage complex aircraft maintenance and operational environments.
"Despite being a highly technical field, our industry relies on the talent and passion of its people to drive progress," Richards said.
Duncan Aviation has partnered with WMU's College of Aviation for many years through internships, scholarships, operational support, and hands-on learning opportunities. The company established an aviation maintenance internship program for WMU students in 2008 and created a maintenance scholarship in 2014. Duncan Aviation and WMU also share a presence at Battle Creek Executive Airport at Kellogg Field and have collaborated on educational experiences such as the WMU Aviation Summer Camp.
Duncan Aviation hopes graduates who benefit from the professorship will go on to serve throughout the aviation industry, including potentially joining Duncan Aviation's teams. Strengthening the pipeline of skilled aviation professionals will help the company continue providing customers with the technical expertise, quality, and responsive service they depend on.
The gift was announced March 25, 2026, in conjunction with WMU's Giving Day and reinforces the organizations' shared commitment to preparing the next generation of aviation professionals.
