October 8, 2026

Yahn Takes Over as Director of Physical Plant at Wheeling University

WHEELING, W.Va., October 8 – Robert Yahn, Assistant Professor and Department Chair for Engineering at Wheeling University, also serves as the Director of Physical Plant.

As Director of Physical Plant, Yahn oversees the maintenance and housekeeping operations for the University, as well as providing oversight of projects the university has outsourced.

“Professor Yahn brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to this role. He has been a Wheeling University faculty member for more than 10 years and is a certified professional engineer and project manager. In the short time he has been in this role, Professor Yahn and his staff are making significant improvements to the campus,” said Dianna M. Vargo, Ed.D., President of Wheeling University.

As the Physical Plant director, Yahn is working with the maintenance crew to make repairs and upgrades across the campus. Additionally, he is spearheading several projects with outside contractors, which include installing new LED lights at Bishop Schmitt Field and replacement of the roof at the McDonough Center.

“I am grateful to Dr. Vargo for the opportunity to continue to serve Wheeling University. With the help of our staff, we will continue making improvements around campus,” Yahn said.

Yahn is no stranger to the University’s physical plant. He and his engineering students accomplished lighting upgrades in the performance gym, auxiliary gym, and swimming pool. This work provided Wheeling University students withvaluable experience, improved the lighting, and reduced the University’s energy costs.

Furthermore, Professor Yahn is a retired Air Force Colonel serving more than 30 years. During his time in the Air Force, he flew the U2 spy jet.

Professor Yahn holds a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Lehigh University, a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering from Northeastern University, a Master of Science in Technology Management from the University of Pennsylvania, and a Master of Science in National Security Studies from the United States Air University.