Deutz Corp. and Gwinnett Technical College of Lawrenceville, Ga., are helping students in the college’s Heavy Diesel Service Technician program to prepare for their future careers. As part of the new Deutz Technical Education Partnership, the company has donated seven diesel engines to the program, giving students hands-on experience with modern technology.
The program educates students on both theory and diagnosis of the basic diesel engine systems found in heavy equipment, safety and fuel systems.
“Our industry is suffering from a lack of well-trained technicians,” said Robert Mann, Deutz Corp. president and CEO. “Off-highway diesel engine emission regulations have become increasingly stringent, necessitating the use of electrical controls and exhaust after-treatment systems. As a result, diesel engine technicians need additional in-depth training.”
“The Heavy Diesel Service Technician Program is at the core of our Automotive Service Technology and Automotive Technology programs,” said Dr. D. Glen Cannon, president of Gwinnett Technical College. “This particular program attracts students who want to pursue careers in the diesel repair industry to Gwinnett Tech, and with our in-depth instruction and new equipment, we expect its popularity to grow. It is such a crucial program to our school, and it is an honor to partner with Deutz Corporation, a training and equipment leader in the diesel engine industry.”
By donating engines and training, Deutz Corp. hopes to help increase the number of trained diesel technicians available within the heavy equipment industry. Students beginning the program in August 2016 will have a full academic year to complete and obtain their certificates from Gwinnett Technical College.
Approximately 40 students will be under the tutelage of Johnny Stalling, a Gwinnet Tech instructor with an extensive diesel engine background. Stalling will periodically return to Deutz for additional training. Also Deutz plans to monitor the progress of students in the program to see how the training prepares them for their careers. If the program proves successful, Deutz will roll out the program to other technical schools across the country.
