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Ken Wheeler and Bruce Brockenborough Honored with Standing Ovation at Annual Joint Boards Luncheon

by Justin Jones

Paducah, KY (11/21/2024) — Ken Wheeler and Bruce Brockenborough, two distinguished leaders from Paducah, received a heartfelt standing ovation from the West Kentucky Community and Technical College (WKCTC) Board of Directors and the Paducah Junior College (PJC), Inc. Board of Trustees at the annual joint boards luncheon on Thursday, November 21. Both men, who have served on the PJC Board of Trustees for over two decades, will retire in December, marking the end of an era of dedicated service to their community and the college.

PJC, the foundation for WKCTC, and its boards took the opportunity to recognize Wheeler and Brockenborough for their immense contributions. The special recognition was led by Chris Black, president of Ray Black & Son, Inc., who praised the two retirees for their longstanding commitment to both PJC and the region's educational growth.

Ken Wheeler: A Career Built on Engineering Excellence

Wheeler, a member of the PJC Board of Trustees since 1990, has enjoyed an abundant career, beginning with his graduation from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, TX, in 1956 with a degree in mechanical engineering. He spent 25 years at Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, MS, where he helped build nuclear submarines at a time when the industry was in its infancy.

Throughout his career, Wheeler held leadership positions, including vice president of maintenance and repair at Port Allen Marine, president of Walker Boat Yard, and vice president of Midland Enterprises companies. He served as president of the Propeller Club of the United States (1990-1992) and was past president of the Tennessee River Valley Association. His ability to apply engineering principles and energy management techniques across various sectors has been the hallmark of his career.

When asked about his greatest professional accomplishment, Wheeler shared, "To have the opportunity to build my career around a solid foundation of engineering principles and energy management techniques that served me well."

Bruce Brockenborough: A Visionary Leader in Business and Economic Development

Brockenborough, who has been a member of the PJC Board of Trustees since 2001, has made significant strides in business and economic development. He holds a Master of Business Administration from Vanderbilt University and a Master of Economic Development from the University of Nebraska, where he became the first to earn that degree. Brockenborough has been president and chief operating officer of Hannan Supply Company since 2001 and has been instrumental in its success, having previously held various positions within the company and at Westinghouse Electric Supply.

Brockenborough has also served on the Alumni Board of Directors at Vanderbilt University, further cementing his legacy of leadership and community engagement. His expertise in economic development and business operations has had a lasting impact on both the region and his industry.

A Legacy of Service and Leadership

As they prepare to retire in December both Wheeler and Brockenborough leave behind a legacy of service, leadership, and dedication to the betterment of education and the Paducah community. Their contributions to PJC and WKCTC have been vital in shaping the success of the institution and its students.

The standing ovation during the luncheon was a testament to their commitment to the college and their legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations.

About Paducah Junior College, Inc. (PJC) Paducah Junior College, Inc. (PJC) serves as the foundation for West Kentucky Community and Technical College (WKCTC). For more than 80 years, PJC has supported the growth of WKCTC, which offers a variety of educational programs aimed at strengthening the community and providing valuable opportunities for local students.

Media Attachments

Chris Black, chairman of the Board of Trustees for Paducah Junior College, Bruce Brockenborough, retiring PJC Board member, and Andy Wilson, executive director of the Paducah Junior College Foundation.

Chris Black, chairman of the Board of Trustees for Paducah Junior College, Ken Wheeler, retiring PJC Board member, and Andy Wilson, executive director of the Paducah Junior College Foundation.

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