Pinellas Technical College's diesel maintenance technician program has a new truck for students to learn on.
MITER Foundation, the charitable arm of residential window and door maker MITER Brands, donated the truck with a non-working engine to help students learn to rebuild an engine.
"The diesel mechanic shortage isn't on the horizon; it's a problem we're facing now," says Karen Previti, MITER Brands' transportation and logistics manager and MITER Foundation Venice outreach committee member. "Through this truck donation, our goal is to give students a real hands-on learning opportunity, from rebuilding an engine to the overall schematics of a commercial vehicle, that will carry them into successful careers. The MITER Foundation is incredibly proud to support programs like this one, and we can't wait to see how students take on the challenge to learn and grow."
Pinellas' program is a 1,050-hour course that covers diesel engine fundamentals including diagnosis, repair and overhaul. It also covers steering, suspension and HVAC systems. It prepares students for ASE certification and lasts about 11 months.
