Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/221076
Workforce ("We Can't Do It Without You" continued from page 49) Dealers not only provide scholarships, but they also help to recruit students to the program. And, says Achemire, dealers and manufacturers also provide training aids, as well as certain parts and pieces that the program needs. "We have also found it extremely difficult to find instructors for the program," he said. "We have had one position open for over a year. The dealers and manufacturers are also trying to find some faculty for us." According to Richman in North Dakota, without local and regional dealership support for a program such as this, it is virtually impossible to have a sustainable program. "They facilitate corporate-level funding support for the program, including the modern technology and up-to-date equipment," he said. "We can't afford to keep the latest equipment in front of the students. The dealers can." They are also in a position to make local students aware of the viable career opportunities through the program, recruit them to the program, and also sponsor them. "Dealer involvement is critical," said Reedley College's Wenter. "In fact, I don't know how you can run a program like this without it. This is an expensive and very capital-intensive education." One dealer, he said, has donated a number of engines to the program. "There is also some equipment that they don't donate, but they provide to us at a significant discount or even loan to us." In addition, if the program doesn't have a specific technical expertise, the dealer will provide it. "In some cases, we even teach over at the dealership," he said. Hurt at Central Arizona College Please visit us in CONDEX Booth 614. 50 | www.cedmag.com | Construction Equipment Distribution | December 2013 agrees that industry involvement is the key to a successful diesel program, whether the school is accredited or not. " If you don't have dealers and manufacturers who are supporting you with equipment, new technology, learning materials, and an avenue for employment after graduation, you can pretty much fold the program up." In his area, service managers from the local dealerships meet with program representatives twice a year. One thing that really impresses Hurt is that, when they visit the college, they "remove their hats" to become brand neutral. "They aren't here representing their companies," he said. "They are representing the industry." While interaction between dealers and school representatives is vital, one key to success is making sure