Saturday, May 7, 2016
Photos by Tom Wilson, writer/editor-PCToday
A recent retiree from Pennsylvania College of Technology’s faculty has been honored with an award named for the first aviation mechanic in powered flight.
On May 6 at the college’s Lumley Aviation Center in Montoursville, the Federal Aviation Administration presented the Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award to James E. Doebler.
The award – named for the Wright Brothers’ mechanic – is earned by airmen who have exhibited professionalism, skill and expertise for at least 50 years in the aviation maintenance profession.
James E. Doebler (left) receives his award from John Sibole, program manager for the Federal Aviation Administration Safety Team. Sibole, based in the Flight Standards District Office in Harrisburg, is a former Lycoming Engines research engineer.
Doebler earned his first aviation mechanic certificate in 1965 at Williamsport Technical Institute, the earliest forerunner to Penn College. From 1966-69, he served as a commissioned officer in the Army Ordinance Corps, with responsibility for quality control in the CH-47 Chinook helicopter rebuilding program at New Cumberland Army Depot.
From 1969-80, he was employed as an aircraft mechanic and shop supervisor by King Air at the Williamsport Airport and at Towanda Aviation. In 1980, he joined the Williamsport Area Community College (Penn College’s immediate predecessor institution) as an instructor in its aircraft maintenance program and, from 1984-88, was employed by Lycoming Engines in Williamsport as a technical instructor for piston and turbine engines.
A faculty member since 1988, Doebler retired this year as an associate professor in the college’s Aviation Department, serving as its head for 18 years.
From 1980 until 2015, he was designated by the Federal Aviation Administration as a Maintenance Examiner, during which time he tested over 1,100 Aviation Maintenance Technician applicants.
Doebler resides in Muncy Valley with his wife, the former Randi K. DeWees.
For information about Penn College, a national leader in applied technology education and workforce development, email the Admissions Office or call toll-free 800-367-9222.
Co-workers and other well-wishers left words of tribute on historic photos of the aviation center.
Among colleagues sharing their reminiscences is William F. Stepp III, associate professor of aviation.
The ceremony included a pin for Doebler's wife of 46 years.
What's a celebration without a commemorative cake?
Doebler shares a moment with fellow retiree Robert M. Werkmeister Sr., who was presented with Charles Taylor Master Mechanic honors in 2006 ...
... and with Brett A. Reasner, dean of transportation and natural resources technologies. Both men have received the college's Master Teacher Award: Doebler in 1995 and Reasner four years later.
Get Penn College News in your inbox each morning.