Mack, Volvo Trucks to expand diesel education commitment

Mack Trucks and Volvo Trucks North America are partnering with with three colleges next year – one each in Florida, Ohio and Texas – in an effort to train trucking technicians.

The American Trucking Associations’ American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) says the trucking industry will need an estimated 67,000 new technicians and 75,000 new diesel engine specialists by 2022.

By expanding its Diesel Advanced Technology Education (DATE) program, Volvo Trucks curriculum will be taught by dedicated Mack and Volvo-certified instructors at Jones Technical Institute in Jacksonville, Florida; the University of Northwestern Ohio in Lima, Ohio; and  Western Technical College in El Paso, Texas. All DATE program graduates will receive an associate’s degree in diesel mechanics and a certification from the DATE program.

“The DATE program will help our dealer network address the severe shortage of technicians qualified to work in this highly technical field,” says Roy Walton, senior manager of aftermarket training for Mack Trucks.

The 500-hour DATE program will train students to work on Mack and Volvo trucks, including electrical and electronic systems, software and engine diagnosis and repair, chassis components and powertrains.

“The DATE program provides students with the education and skills needed to excel in a career that’s increasingly in demand,” says Matt Flynn, director of Volvo Trucks Academy.