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Author: Professional Technician Staff

  • Nevada community college adds 3 new tech program certificates

    Nevada community college adds 3 new tech program certificates

    Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC) in Reno, Nevada recently said it is strengthening its commitment to preparing students for careers as diesel and heavy equipment technicians with the introduction of three new stackable skills certificates debuting this fall.

    These additions to TMCC’s Diesel Program provide clear pathways toward certificates of achievement and ultimately an associate of applied science degree, specializing in either diesel technology or heavy equipment technology.

    This fall, TMCC introduced three new certificates the college said are designed to provide students with specialized, stackable credentials:

    • Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Diesel Equipment Technician, Heavy Equipment Electrical Skills Certificate
    • Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Diesel Equipment Technician, Heavy Equipment Hydraulics Skills Certificate
    • Heavy Equipment Maintenance Technician Certificate of Achievement

    “These new certificates allow students to quickly gain targeted skills and progress step-by-step toward advanced qualifications and career growth within the diesel industry,” said Jeremy Coggin, Lead Diesel Instructor at TMCC.

    At the heart of TMCC’s Diesel Program is immersive, hands-on training in fully-equipped shops, according to the college. Coursework includes critical heavy equipment systems such as hydraulics, brakes, electrical systems, and fuel diagnostics. Instruction aligns closely with ASE certifications, ensuring graduates possess the competencies employers demand.

    “Students don’t just learn theory—they work on real equipment to master the skills their future employers expect,” Coggin explained.

    TMCC’s Diesel Program benefits from strong partnerships with local and national industry leaders. Companies like MOPAR CAP and Caterpillar provide students access to cutting-edge technologies, internships, and employment opportunities. A recent alliance with Speed of Air, a leader in clean engine technology, exemplifies TMCC’s forward-thinking approach, according to the college.

    “Our updated Heavy Equipment Maintenance Technician CoA and AAS emphasis are designed specifically to meet workforce needs,” said Coggin. “Graduates leave the program ready for high-demand roles.”

    For information, contact the Applied Technology Division .

  • TechForce & NTHS announce 2 scholarship winners

    TechForce & NTHS announce 2 scholarship winners

    Two leading skilled trade nonprofits — TechForce Foundation and National Technical Honor Society (NTHS) — recently announced the first recipients of a joint scholarship.

    Nicholas Sinotte (Lakes Region Community College) and Dylan Powell (Itawamba Community College) each received $2,500 toward their technical education. This collaboration provides students with resources and critical scholarship support to excel in their technical education and successfully transition to the skilled technician workforce.

    Both scholarship recipients started trade school this fall, are National Technical Honor Society members, and actively participate in the TechForce Network. Their involvement and passion for technical education helped them stand out amongst their peers, according to a statement from the two organizations.

    “I am working toward a college degree and certifications in both automotive and marine technology,” said Sinotte. “My family’s finances are limited …this scholarship provides critical support as I work toward that goal. This scholarship brings me one step closer to that future, and I am truly grateful.”

    Powell has taken classes or worked in construction, painting, and welding, and interned with an electrical engineer.

    “The most fun of these was definitely manufacturing,” said Powell. “When it came time to pick a career pathway, industrial maintenance is the only thing I felt I would enjoy. I am excited for the hands-on work and challenging, new skills I will learn!”

    The scholarship, funded by NTHS and administered by TechForce, was created in May in celebration of the partnership between the two organizations. NTHS and TechForce are connecting students to combined educational resources including training content, scholarships and grants, industry connections, and career opportunities. More information is available at NTHS.org/TechForce/.

    “Students like Dylan and Nicholas see the opportunities in a technician career, and we are proud to help them achieve their goals,” said Jennifer Maher, TechForce Foundation CEO. “TechForce Foundation is solving the disconnect between emerging talent and industry needs, starting with technicians. Our nonprofit-to-nonprofit partnership with NTHS brings us closer to realizing that vision. Together we are connecting more students than ever to the TechForce™ workforce platform, designed to connect industry and education in real, measurable ways.”

    Peyton Holland, NTHS Executive Director said, “At NTHS, we’re proud to recognize the brilliantly skilled students in Career & Technical Education who are building not only their own futures but the foundation of our workforce and communities. Partnering with TechForce Foundation allows us to celebrate and support outstanding students like Dylan and Nicholas, who are pursuing challenging, high-demand careers with passion and purpose. Together, we’re elevating the profile of technical education and expanding opportunities for CTE students nationwide.”

  • sun says latest acquisition improves efficiency, creates opportunities for employees

    sun says latest acquisition improves efficiency, creates opportunities for employees

    Sun Auto Tire & Service recently announced the acquisition of seven Vannoy’s Tires locations in the greater Pensacola, Florida region.

    Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

    Founded in 1985 by brothers Gordon and Charley Vannoy, Vannoy has been a trusted name for tire and automotive repair serving the Pensacola area for over four decades.

    Its addition to the Sun Auto Network marks the latest step in strengthening Sun’s Gulf Coast presence, and adding strategic infill to existing Jacksonville and Gulf Coast markets recently bolstered by new stores in Alabama and Mississippi, said a statement by Sun.

    The company recently acquired five Fausak Tire locations in greater Mobile, Alabama, along with the opening of a new facility in the same market. Sun now operates nearly 50 locations across the region, including Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida.

    “The Sun Auto Network is continuing to grow with purpose nationwide while concentrating on regions where we can build on an established foundation,” said Chris Ripani, Chief Operating Officer of Sun Auto Tire & Service. “With the addition of Vannoy’s Tires in Pensacola, we’re able to improve efficiency, create new opportunities for our teammates, and ensure guests benefit from both the strength of a national company and the care of a trusted local business.”

    Sun Auto Tire & Service is a national network of over 525 neighborhood tire and service shops.

  • Tampa and local college launch technician training program

    Tampa and local college launch technician training program

    The City of Tampa, Florida and Hillsborough College are joining forces to launch GEAR UP, a new workforce development program designed to build a pipeline of certified, job-ready fleet technicians to meet growing local and national demands, according to a statement from the city.

    The GEAR UP program gives participants paid, hands-on experience in the City’s Fleet Maintenance Division while they complete their education at HC. The City of Tampa will cover the full cost of program tuition and training for participants while they are employed with the city.

    GEAR UP is being created in response to a growing shortage of qualified automotive technicians across the country and in Florida, the city’s statement said. The program will help ensure reliable service for the city’s essential vehicle fleet while creating a clear pathway into stable, skilled careers for local students.

    The first three students selected to GEAR UP are Christopher Figuereo, Michael Daniels, and Maurice Daniels. Each are top students in their class, recognized by HC instructors for professionalism, enthusiasm, and potential to contribute to city operations.

    “Programs like GEAR UP show what’s possible when we invest in people who are already part of our community,” said Mayor Jane Castor. “Every great city depends on the people who keep it running, and our fleet technicians are at the heart of that, keeping patrol cars, fire trucks, and service vehicles ready to serve our residents every day.”

  • New Diesel Technician program available at South Texas VoTech

    New Diesel Technician program available at South Texas VoTech

    Ancora Education announced its South Texas Vocational Technical Institute (STVT) campus in Arlington, Texas is adding a Diesel Heavy Truck Technician program.

    The Diesel Heavy Truck Technician (DHTT) program is designed to prepare students for careers in the diesel medium-heavy truck technician industry. Classes combine theory with practical application of physical job skills.

    Ancora said students will be taught by industry-experienced instructors in a hands-on classroom lab, gaining practical experience in diagnosing and troubleshooting complex mechanical issues. All courses include the use of hand and specialty tools and emphasize equipment and shop safety procedures.

    The program will cover:

    *Diesel Engines & Fuel Systems

    *Brakes & Suspension, Steering

    * Basic Electrical & Fundamentals of Heating, Ventilation & A/C

    * Diesel Drivetrain and Chassis Electrical Systems

    * Electronic Systems & Preventive Maintenance Inspections

    During the program, students can sit for the EPA 609 A/C Technician certification test and upon program completion, graduates should be prepared to sit for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) exams, and Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Training Certification.

    Enrollment for the program at Arlington is now open. Ancora said the program can be completed in as little as 13 months, and new terms start every five weeks.

  • New Canadian truck dealership has 20 bays, 18 techs and 8 master techs

    New Canadian truck dealership has 20 bays, 18 techs and 8 master techs

    Mack Trucks earlier this week announced that its dealer TransWestern Truck Centres relocated and opened a new full-service facility in Southeast Calgary, Alberta, Canada. The investment in the new location will improve serviceability and operational efficiency, according to a statement from the company.

    TransWestern Truck Centres’ 52,000 square-foot new dealership rests on 5.25 acres of fully fenced and secure land. The facility offers $2.1 million in parts inventory, 20 service bays, 18 technicians and eight master technicians. In total, 43 people are employed at the Calgary location.

    “Mack invested in Calgary due to the fact that Calgary is a strong market with outstanding customers that need to move freight all over North America,” said Matt Davison, Mack senior vice president of distribution and channel development. “We had outgrown our previous facility and wanted to provide a better customer experience with greater accessibility and more amenities for all customers in Calgary or traveling through Alberta.”

    The new facility is a Mack Certified Electric Vehicle (EV) Dealer and is certified to service Mack Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) customers. The Calgary site also has the capability to expand for hydrogen fuel. TransWestern Truck Centres in is a Mack Certified Uptime Dealer.

    TransWestern Truck Centres is a heavy-duty truck dealership located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, with a focus on selling, servicing, and providing parts for heavy and medium-duty trucks, particularly Mack trucks. There also is a location in Lethbridge, Alberta for parts and service. TransWestern Truck Centres has been a corporate-owned store for more than 10 years.

    “This new, expanded facility in Calgary represents a massive step forward for TransWestern Truck Centres and, more importantly, for our customers across Southern Alberta,” said Randy Muller, general manager of TransWestern Truck Centres in Calgary. “The increase in parts warehousing, service bay capacity coupled with the latest diagnostic technology, allows us to deliver on our commitment to maximize our customers’ uptime.”

  • Massive recall of Dodge Darts; shifter issue may cause rollaway

    Massive recall of Dodge Darts; shifter issue may cause rollaway

    Automaker Stellantis has issued a recall for more thaan 200,000 cars due to a transmission issue that coukld lead to the cars rolling away.

    The recall applies to 298,439 model years 2013-2016 Dodge Darts. Some 2% of those vehicles may have the defect, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

    According to the NHTSA , “Some 2013-2016 Dodge Dart vehicles may experience a transmission shift cable failure. The suspect period began on Feb. 24, 2012, when the first suspect vehicle was produced, and ended on Oct. 4, 2016, when the last suspect vehicle was produced.

    “A failure of the shift cable to maintain connection to the transmission can cause an unexpected and unrecoverable loss of PARK (“LoP”) function and/or a vehicle movement in an unintended direction.”

    NHTSA said that a fix for the recall is still under development.

    The agency said the company were to notify dealers on or about Oct. 16, and begin notifying owners on or about Nov. 6.

  • Stellantis to spend $13 billion to upgrade four plants in the Midwest; largest investment in company history

    Stellantis to spend $13 billion to upgrade four plants in the Midwest; largest investment in company history

    Stellantis announced earlier this week plans to invest $13 billion over the next four years to grow its business in the critical United States market and to increase its domestic manufacturing footprint. The investment is the largest in the Company’s 100-year U.S. history and will support the introduction of five new vehicles in key segments; production of the all-new four-cylinder engine; and the addition of more than 5,000 jobs at plants in Illinois, Ohio, Michigan and Indiana, according to a statement from the company.

    The company said this new investment will increase vehicle production by 50% over current levels. The new product launches will be in addition to a regular cadence of 19 refreshed products across all U.S. assembly plants and updated powertrains planned through 2029.

    “This investment in the U.S. – the single largest in the company’s history – will drive our growth, strengthen our manufacturing footprint and bring more American jobs to the states we call home,” said Antonio Filosa, Stellantis CEO and North America COO. “As we begin our next 100 years, we are putting the customer at the center of our strategy, expanding our vehicle offerings and giving them the freedom to choose the products they want and love.

    “Accelerating growth in the U.S. has been a top priority since my first day. Success in America is not just good for Stellantis in the U.S. — it makes us stronger everywhere.”

    The $13 billion investment plan includes research and development and supplier costs to execute the company’s full product strategy over the next four years as well as investments in its manufacturing operations, according to the company. The details of the investments include:

    Illinois
    Stellantis said it intends to invest more than $600 million to reopen the Belvidere Assembly Plant to expand production of the Jeep Cherokee and Jeep Compass for the U.S. market. With an initial production launch expected in 2027, these actions are anticipated to create around 3,300 new jobs.

    Ohio
    With an investment of nearly $400 million, assembly of an all-new midsize truck, previously allocated to the Belvidere plant, plans to move to the Toledo Assembly Complex, where it will join the Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator, according to Stellantis. The production shift could create more than 900 jobs. Launch timing is expected in 2028.

    The Company also intends to continue with investments in its Toledo operations as previously announced in January. This includes additional technologies and strong product actions for both the Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator, and more components critical to production at the Toledo Machining Plant.

    Michigan
    Stellantis plans to develop an all-new range-extended EV and internal combustion engine large SUV that will be produced at the Warren Truck Assembly Plant beginning in 2028. The company said it will invest nearly $100 million to retool the facility. It is anticipated that the new program will add more than 900 jobs at the plant, which currently assembles the Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer.

    The company also expects to invest $130 million to prepare the Detroit Assembly Complex – Jefferson for production of the next-generation Dodge Durango, reaffirming its commitment from January. Production is anticipated to launch in 2029.

    Indiana
    The Company confirms its January announcement to make additional investments in several of its Kokomo facilities to produce the all-new four-cylinder engine – the GMET4 EVO – beginning in 2026. The company said it plans to invest more than $100 million and to add more than 100 jobs to ensure that the U.S. will be the manufacturing home of this strategic powertrain.

    Stellantis’ U.S. footprint includes 34 manufacturing facilities, parts distribution centers and research and development locations across 14 states. These operations support more than 48,000 employees, 2,600 dealers and nearly 2,300 suppliers in thousands of communities across the country.

    Stellantis manufactures, and markets vehicles under 14 brands: including Dodge, Chrysler, Fiat, Jeep, and Ram trucks.  

  • There’s been a slew of new shop openings & Aquisitions

    There’s been a slew of new shop openings & Aquisitions

    A number of auto repair companies have recently announced either opening new locations or adding existing business to their fold.

    New Plaza Tire in Illinois

    Sun Auto Tire & Service recently announced the opening of a new Plaza Tire Service location in Fairview Heights, Illinois, further extending the brand’s presence in the Greater St. Louis Metro area. The new store is Plaza Tire Service’s 83rd location overall and 11th in Illinois.

    Like other Plaza Tire Service locations, the new facility features over 6,500 square feet of space with eight service bays, outfitted with state-of-the-art equipment for tire installations, repairs, alignments, and comprehensive vehicle maintenance.

    “St. Louis has been a hub for Plaza Tire Service for almost as long as we’ve been open,” said Rob Kingery, Regional Vice President. “Extending our reach further into Illinois allows us to provide exceptional service to even more guests in the Midwest.”

    The compamny said in a statement the expansion reflects its broader strategy of growing its national network through a combination of organic development and acquisition, positioning the company as one of the largest independent tire and automotive service providers in the U.S.

    Telle Tire adds 2 stores in Missouri

    Telle Tire & Auto Centers recently opened a store in Ballwin, Missouri, and another in Chesterfield, Missouri.

    The openings give the Webster Groves, Missouri-based dealership 16 Telle Tire-branded locations in the St. Louis, area. Telle Tire & Auto Centers also operates three stores in the St. Louis market under other names.

    The Ballwin store has five service bays and six Telle Tire & Auto Centers associates. The Chesterfield store has seven associates and 10 service bays. Both locations were former Tire Choice outlets owned by Monro Inc.

    Telle Tire & Auto Centers now has 67 overall locations.

    Southern Tire @ Pilot expanding

    Southern Tire Mart at Pilot said it is opening six locations during the third quarter, giving the joint venture more than 90 stores nationwide.

    “We’re expanding and renovating our network across the country as we work to help provide professional drivers nationwide with a quick and efficient truck repair experience,” said John Boynton, president of STMP. “The work that drivers do is instrumental and we’re working to help keep them safe and on the move, no matter where they are.”

    The new locations are located in Houston; Burleson, Texas; Sulphur, Kentucky; Salt Lake City; Sayre, Colorado; and Hudson, Colorado.

    STMP plans to have 100 locations by the end of 2025.

    VIP Tires opening in Connecticut

    Auburn, Maine-based VIP Tires & Service recently said it will open its Wallingford, Connecticut store Oct. 21.

    The five-bay outlet is a former Wallingford Tire & Auto store that VIP Tires & Service acquired. The location has been “a 41-year-old staple in New Haven County,” according to VIP Tires & Service officials.

    The acquisition was finalized earlier this year and the grand opening event will be a ribbon-cutting ceremony that features VIP leadership and members of the Wallingford community, the company said in a statement.

    “VIP is thrilled to officially open our new Wallingford location, a community staple in a wonderful Connecticut town with nearly 45,000 residents,” says VIP Tires & Service CEO Tim Winkeler. “Wallingford Tire & Auto has served this community for over four decades, and we look forward to serving the local customers in the years ahead, building on a legacy of success. VIP’s Wallingford store not only grows our footprint in Connecticut, but also carries on the tradition of helping people in this great town that Wallingford Tire & Auto started.”

    Auto Care Plus acquires Ronnie’s

    Auto Care Plus, a Straightaway brand, recently announced the acquisition of Ronnie’s Car Care in Tewksbury, Massachusetts.

    Auto Care Plus, emphasized the role the acquisition will play in expanding its presence in the northern Massachusetts market.

    “This acquisition is another exciting step forward for Auto Care Plus,” said John Manelas, brand president of Auto Care Plus. “We are thrilled to welcome the Ronnie’s Car Care team into the Auto Care Plus family. With additional resources and support, we know this team will continue delivering the best-in-class service customers have trusted for years.”

    “For decades, our customers have trusted us to keep them on the road, and I’m confident Auto Care Plus will carry that same legacy forward,” said Ronnie McNulty, owner of Ronnie’s Car Care. “They’re not only keeping our team intact but also investing in renovations to provide an even better experience for the Tewksbury community.”

    This becomes Auto Care Plus’ 18th location.

  • Harbor Freight hands out $1.5 million in awards to skilled trades instructors

    Harbor Freight hands out $1.5 million in awards to skilled trades instructors

    A major tool retailer recently honored 30 skilled trades instructors from schools around the country with cash prizes to their schools and themselves.

    Harbor Freight, through its Tools For Schools Prize for Teaching Excellence, handed out a total of $1.5 million in cash prizes to schools and teachers in 18 states.

    The grand prize winners include:

    • Jerry Agan, Agricultural Mechanics, Elizabethton High School, Tennessee
    • Michael Driscoll, Industrial Technology, Bay View High School, Wisconsin
    • Benjamin Peters, Industrial Technology, Nekoosa High School, Wisconsin
    • Hugh Roberts, Carpentry, Cabell County Career Technology Center, West Virginia
    • Terrell Taylor, Construction, Merrillville High School, Indiana

    Each prize is $100,000, which includes $70,000 for their school’s skilled trades program and $30,000 for the teacher.

    Also, 25 other prize winner awards include a total of $50,000. Of that amount, $35,000 goes to the school’s skilled trades program and instructor receives $15,000.

    The prize, now in its ninth year, was created to recognize excellence among high school skilled trades teachers, a group of educators who Harbor Freight said are frequently overlooked and underappreciated. As of today, over $10 million has been awarded to more than 180 teachers and their programs through the prize.

    “Through a rigorous application process, our prizewinners shared their unique depth of experience and skill for teaching the skilled trades,” said Danny Corwin, executive director of Harbor Freight Tools for Schools.

    This year there are winners are from Arizona, California, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Minnesota, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming. A full list of winners is here.

    The Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Prize for Teaching Excellence was started in 2017 by Eric Smidt, owner and founder of Harbor Freight Tools.

    This year there were more than 1,000 applications for the prize. The application process included three rounds of judging, each by an independent panel of experts from education, industry, nonprofits, and philanthropy.