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Diesel mechanics program off to successful start
 | | Several of the students in the new diesel mechanics program at Dabney S. Lancaster Community College work on an engine during a recent class with instructor Jason Ridgeway. Pictured are (l-r) Casey Bush of Low Moor; Ridgeway; Thomas Randozzo of Millboro; Bryan Dolan of Frankford, W.Va.; and Shaun Smith of Covington. (Photo courtesy DSLCC) |
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CLIFTON FORGE - Dabney S. Lancaster Community College is offering its first diesel mechanics courses this fall and the response has been overwhelmingly positive, with students attending evening classes in a well-equipped lab in Scott Hall on the main campus in Clifton Forge.
The goal of this new program is to prepare individuals to enter employment as diesel mechanics who have a basic understanding of engines and the many integrated systems that must be well-maintained to keep vehicles on the road.
"The development of this program was facilitated through numerous meetings with industry partners throughout the region," explained Earl Dodrill, Coordinator of Continuing Education and Workforce Services. "Equipment has been provided, internships have been made available and jobs are waiting for those who successfully complete the courses. Tuition is very affordable; the current instate rate for tuition and fees is only $81.35 per credit hour. Financial assistance in the form of grants, loans and scholarships is available for eligible students."
"We feel that this program is an excellent option for those individuals seeking challenging and rewarding employment close to home," Dodrill said. "It is perfect for students who like hands-on work and the chance to apply the latest technology."
The College developed this program as a direct response to industry needs. "An important part of our mission is to provide quality and affordable training for those preparing for employment and to assist businesses and industries by providing them with a steady supply of trained workers," commented Dr. Richard Teaff, DSLCC president. "The Diesel Mechanics program is an excellent example of how developing new programs with key community partners can result in a win-win situation for both students and regional employers."
Tom Mohr of Highway Motors, Inc. currently leads the advisory committee that was formed to assist College officials with the development of the curriculum. "Probably the biggest reason that I became involved with the DSLCC program is the need we have for technology-driven employees in our service/parts department," commented Mohr. "It is getting harder and harder to find qualified technicians today because the job has become so computerized. We need to grow our own technicians from the local community who are interested in living and working here."
Mohr shares many of the same observations being made by some industry experts. The technician shortage is not only being felt today, but is expected to worsen as experienced baby boomers retire in very large numbers well into the next decade. Other trends only complicate the situation. Young people are preparing for technician jobs in dwindling numbers and those who do decide to enter that type of employment may prefer jobs in urban areas for the higher wages and amenities not always available in small rural areas.
The importance of employing diesel mechanics who can understand and apply the latest technology cannot be overemphasized. An article in Fleet Owner magazine included the dramatic statement that some trucks on the road today have more computer power, advanced electronics and communication systems than the first lunar lander. The article went on to suggest that even more technological advances will continue to be introduced to address issues such as pollution control, fuel economy and driver comfort so clearly the use of technology will only increase.
The job outlook for those who complete the DSLCC program is very positive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (U. S. Department of Labor) reports in the Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2006-2007, that a career as a diesel service technician or mechanic can offer relatively high wages and the challenge of skilled repair work (and) opportunities are expected to be very good for persons who complete formal training programs. Members of the advisory committee for the DSLCC program have indicated that the lack of qualified mechanics is a concern that clearly impacts their businesses in spite of having numerous openings offering high wages, so employment issues surrounding the technician shortage at the local level reflect those being reported nationally.
Most of the diesel mechanics students hold jobs during the day while attending night classes each week. "It is not an easy program," commented Dodrill, "but the students are doing very well and I am very proud of them. I invite others to join the classes and prepare for great job opportunities."
More diesel mechanics courses are scheduled for evenings during the spring semester that begins the week of Jan. 7: Diesel Truck Electrical Systems on Tuesdays and Wednesdays; Power Trains II on Thursdays; and Air Brake Systems on Mondays. Students may want to take one class on a topic of interest to them, or may choose to enroll in the career studies certificate program that requires the successful completion of ten courses (29 credits) that cover areas such as air conditioning systems, fuel systems, tune-ups, air brake systems, basic welding, preventive maintenance and engine repairs.
Some of the diesel mechanics spring courses have room for new students on a space-available basis, so early registration is encouraged. Students who are not yet a part of the program but wish to enroll in the spring courses should contact Dodrill immediately for details at 540/863-2902 or email edodrill@dslcc.edu.
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