Follow Us
Subscribe
TRENDING

Author: Professional Technician Staff

  • Need to get organized? There are plenty of good storage options

    Need to get organized? There are plenty of good storage options

    Tired of looking for that wrench or screwdriver? Does your workspace feel more like a search and rescue mission than a mechanic’s shop?

    Keeping your space organized, with tools easily accessible may seem at times like a bridge too far; however, with a few tips and tricks and the right system of organization you can turn your work space into a well-oiled machine. 

    Transforming your workspace into a functional one is achievable with the right strategies and tools. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you declutter and optimize your tool storage, along with a curated selection of organizers to fit various budgets.

    To begin, sort your tools into categories that make sense to you. For example, hand tools, power tools, fasteners etc. Get rid of any duplicates or items that you no longer use. Once everything is sorted, decide how you want to maximize the space you have available and what kind of storage system will fit your needs.

    Utilizing vertical space by mounting pegboards, magnetic strips, and wall-mounted racks will keep tools easily accessible and visible while freeing up valuable bench space. Next you will decide what storage options will best suit your shop’s functions. Tool storage solutions range from small toolboxes to heavy duty mobile workbenches. You may find that you need a variety of storage options. 

    Toolboxes are small, easy to transport but, of course, have limited storage capacity. Modular storage systems provide more space, are customizable, stackable, and flexible. If you’re looking for something more substantial, then a mobile workbench might be the best solution. A mobile workbench comes at a higher price point; however, it provides maximum storage space and is very durable. At the end of the article, you will find more information and links for different storage solutions. 

    Once you have determined the best way to store your tools, clearly label everything in your workspace. Label bins, drawers, and shelves. Not only will labeling keep you better organized, it will speed up tool retrieval and clean up, especially in a shared workspace.

    By implementing these organization strategies and selecting the right storage solutions, you can transform your workspace into an efficient and clutter-free environment.

    There are tool organizers for every budget.

     Budget-Friendly Options (Under $50)

    • Keter Stack-n-Roll Two Drawer Tool Box: A modular system perfect for small parts and power tool accessories.KETER
    • “THE UNSPRUNG” Modular Plier Organizer: Keeps pliers upright and organized with magnetic backing.UNSPRUNG
    • Modular Pick Organizers: Ideal for small tools like picks and precision screwdrivers.MODULAR

     Mid-Range Solutions ($50–$200)

    • Stanley 028001L 28-Inch Structural Foam Toolbox: Offers ample space with water-resistant features. STANLEY
    • Craftsman 3-Drawer Portable Chest: Provides organized storage with included wrench organizers. CRAFTSMAN
    • Dewalt TSTAK Deep Tool Box: Stackable design with a large volume body for versatile storage. TOOLBOX

    Premium Choices ($500 and Above)

    • Husky 52 in. Heavy-Duty 9-Drawer Mobile Workbench: Combines a spacious work surface with ample drawer storage. WORKBENCH
    • Mobile Service Workbench: Features multiple drawers and a durable worktop, ideal for professionals. MOBILE BENCH

  • Trucking company names top 10 technicians for competition

    Trucking company names top 10 technicians for competition

    Ruan holds its eighth annual Top Technician Competition, which showcases the skills and technical expertise of the company’s maintenance professionals.

    The Des Moines, Iowa-based trucking, warehousing and brokerage company recently announced the top 10 technicians who achieved the highest scores in the first phase of the competition, a 100-question online assessment. These individuals will advance to the final round, a hands-on skills competition, July 31 in Ankeny, Iowa:

    • Brandon Crews, Cedartown, Georgia
    • Alberto Urquijo, Yuma, Arizona
    • Jacob Grayson, Smyrna, Tennessee
    • Jacob Pack, Smyrna, Tennessee
    • Jesus Rodriguez Jr., San Antonio, Texas
    • Jonathan Mendoza, Phoenix, Arizona
    • Jose Sosa, Denton, Texas
    • Mitchell Shoppa, Muscatine, Iowa
    • Phillip Rorrer, Brooklyn, Ohio
    • Ricardo Gomez, Ankeny, Iowa

    This event is held in partnership with Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC). The hands-on portion of the competition will take place on the DMACC campus.

    Ahead of the main event, 10 DMACC diesel technician students will also participate in a student competition on July 30.

    Final scores will be determined by combining results from 11 individual hands-on skills stations. Winners will be recognized during an awards banquet the evening of July 31 and will receive a plaque and monetary prize in recognition of their achievements.

    In addition, Ruan’s top three technicians will go on to represent the company at the Technology and Maintenance Council (TMC) National SuperTech Competition in Raleigh, North Carolina.

    Ruan will also sponsor the top DMACC student competitor to compete in the SuperTech student competition.

    View Ruan technician career opportunities. 

  • Peterbilt’s Nashville Technician Institute graduates first class

    Peterbilt’s Nashville Technician Institute graduates first class

     Peterbilt Technician Institute (PTI) recently honored its inaugural class of certified technician graduates at its newly opened campus in Nashville.

    Launched earlier this month, the Nashville facility is a state-of-the-art training center designed to support the program’s expanded geographical reach established through a partnership with the Lincoln Educational Services Corporation (Lincoln Tech) in 2023.

    The PTI Nashville graduates comprise the program’s 140th class, a testament to its proven track record and well-rounded curriculum, according to a statement from the company. The graduates have already received employment offers from several Peterbilt dealers.  

    “This first graduating class at the new Nashville campus reflects our dedication to building a strong pipeline of skilled service technicians throughout North America equipped to support today’s advanced vehicle technologies,” said Danny Landholm, Peterbilt director of dealer network development. “We congratulate these graduates and are proud to help prepare them for opportunities across the Peterbilt dealer network and broader industry.”

    The PTI program leverages a learning approach that combines classroom and hands-on training to build practical experience. It emphasizes teamwork to enhance communication skills and incorporates web-based skill-building activities to ensure technicians possess comprehensive technical knowledge, enabling them to excel and deliver maximum uptime for Peterbilt customers.

    Upon completion of the program, students will earn factory-trained technician credentials that can fast-track them to careers at more than 430 Peterbilt dealerships across the United States and Canada.

    Interested students can learn more about the PTI program by visiting it online.

  • New Heavy Diesel Mechanics facility opens in southeast Ohio

    New Heavy Diesel Mechanics facility opens in southeast Ohio

    Buckeye Hills Career Center (BHCC) In Rio Grande, Ohio recently held a ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating the completion of two new facilities on its main campus: a Heavy Diesel Mechanics and Commercial Driving License (CDL) complex, and an Electrical Trades Building Complex.

    The CDL and Heavy Diesel Mechanics Complex includes a 9,256 square-foot instructional facility with modern lab bays designed to replicate real-world conditions, as well as a 24,000 square-foot CDL pad. 

    The center will provide about 100 students annually with immersive, hands-on training and will be home to BHCC’s CDL program and Ag and Heavy Equipment Technician program.

    Classes are expected to begin in the new facilities in August.

    BHCC received over $3.7 million from the State of Ohio’s Career Tech Construction Grant for the project, and a $1.5 million grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission’s (ARC) Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization program in partnership with the Governor’s Office of Appalachia.

    “Today, we proudly unveil two transformative facilities that will shape the future of Southeastern Ohio,” said Jamie Nash, BHCC Superintendent. “These two facilities together symbolize more than expansion. They represent hope, opportunity, and a bold commitment to workforce readiness.”

    Buckeye Hills Career Center is operated by the Gallia-Jackson-Vinton Joint Vocational School District and has served Southeast Ohio for almost 50 years.

  • New Holland Construction Launches W100D Compact Wheel Loader

    New Holland Construction Launches W100D Compact Wheel Loader

    New Holland Construction’s new W100D compact wheel loader marks the next generation of the brand’s compact wheel loaders and redefines the operator experience with a fully redesigned cab built for a variety of jobsites, according to a statement from the company.

    Engineered for landscapers, agricultural operators, snow removal crews and more, New Holland said the W100D combines reliable power with an intentional design to deliver productivity and performance in a compact class size where there have been few options.

    “The W100D is all about giving the operator a better experience, from the layout of the cab to the responsiveness of the controls,” said Dan Kakareka, product manager for New Holland Construction North America. “We’ve built this wheel loader to perform in the real-world, where comfort, visibility and intuitive design make a difference day in and day out.”

    New Cab Enhances Operator Experience

    The W100D’s new cab design represents a leap forward in the operator experience. New Holland said it focused on what matters most in real-world operating conditions: space, visibility, control, and ease of use. The cab features a roomier layout and improved sightlines via the redesigned front windshield, which provides clear views to both the bucket edges and tire alignment for more precise operating.

    Inside, operators will find enhanced comforts and advanced features that are typically reserved for larger machines: a standard heated air-ride seat; Bluetooth, FM and AM radio capabilities; HVAC system; and high-visibility LED lighting. A new in-cab LED monitor and standard rearview camera offer access to real-time machine data and elevated awareness on the jobsite, helping operators stay efficient and confident in their surroundings, according to New Holland.

    One of the new cab’s standout features is the seat-mounted joystick, part of a true pilot control system. Unlike fixed joystick configurations, this system moves in sync with the operator’s seat, delivering better control and stability, especially in environments where there is uneven ground. This added precision and comfort improves operator productivity and safety by contributing to fatigue reduction during long hours of operation.

    Ready to Perform, Regardless of the Industry or Environment

    The W100D compact wheel loader is powered by a Stage V certified FPT Industrial engine, delivering performance with the added benefits of fuel-saving features like eco mode and auto idle. Ride control and creep mode comes standard, and high-flow hydraulics options are available for applications that require more specialized performance.

    New Holland Construction said it designed the new compact wheel loaders with jobsite flexibility in mind, featuring a standard JRB-compatible coupler and an optional ISO-compatible coupler to accommodate a wide range of attachments. Operators can choose between the standard 1.9-cubic-yard bucket or a high-capacity 2.2-cubic-yard light material bucket for a wide variety of lifting, loading and scooping tasks.

    Compatible attachments for the W100D include grapples, snow throwers, snow pushers and a full range of buckets. Whether moving bales on the farm, clearing snow or supporting landscape operations year-round, the W100D offers the versatility professionals demand. Complimenting this aspect is its compact size and power-packed capability that make it ideal for operators who need big performance in a tight footprint.

    Maintenance is also made simpler on this machine with three wide-opening service panels offer unobstructed access for efficient maintenance of the engine and other critical service components. A five-year telematics subscription comes standard with purchase, ensuring owners, operators and fleet managers can stay connected in-person or remotely to monitor and manage performance insights and diagnostics.

    Ordering is available through local New Holland Construction dealerships. 

    For more information, visit construction.newholland.com or contact your local New Holland Construction dealer.

  • Students from ASE-Accredited programs win SkillsUSA medals

    Students from ASE-Accredited programs win SkillsUSA medals

    Students from ASE-accredited programs were among the medalists in every transportation category at the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference held last month in Atlanta.

    “We want to congratulate the outstanding students from ASE-accredited automotive, collision and truck/diesel programs that were recognized with medals at the recent SkillsUSA competition,” said Mike Coley, president of the ASE Education Foundation. “These students have gained the foundational skills needed to launch their careers as entry-level technicians and obviously from their success at SkillsUSA, their schools and instructors have prepared them well for their future as automotive service professionals.”

    The medalists from ASE-accredited schools were recognized in the following categories at the 2025 SkillsUSA competition:

    • Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair (High School) Aidan Hawkins (Gold) – North Farmington High School (Farmington Hills, Michigan), Ethan Kesegich (Silver) – West Stanly High School (Oakboro, North Carolina), Joseph Dake (Bronze) – Middleburg High School (Middleburg, Florida)
    • Automotive Refinishing Technology (High School) Alec Windsor (Gold) – Vanguard-Sentinel CTC-Sentinel Campus (Tiffin, Ohio)
    • Automotive Refinishing Technology (College) Aleah Sauder (Gold) – Waubonsee Community College (Sugar Grove, Illinois)
    • Automotive Service Technology (High School) Tyler Blair (Silver) – Overland High School (Aurora, Colorado)
    • Automotive Service Technology (College) Joshua Stover (Gold) – Waubonsee Community College (Sugar Grove, Illinois), Sterling Shelton (Silver) – Montana State University-Northern (Havre, Montana), Will Lamers (Bronze) – Fox Valley Technical College (Appleton, Wisconsin)
    • Collision Damage Appraisal (High School) Kyle Ferguson (Bronze) – High School Academy-Metropolitan Community College (Omaha, Nebraska)
    • Collision Damage Appraisal (College) Cloud Kline (Gold) – Aims Community College-Windsor (Greeley, Colorado) Benjamin Swanson, (Bronze) – Waubonsee Community College (Sugar Grove, Illinois)
    • Collision Repair Technology (High School) Nicolette Favreau (Bronze) Montachusett Regional Vo-Tech (Finchburg, Massachusetts)
    • Collision Repair Technology (College) Mario Saenz (Gold) Aims Community College-Windsor (Greeley, Colorado), Wyatt Leverenz – Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (Green Bay, Wisconsin)
    • Diesel Equipment Technology (High School) Ayden Dobbels (Silver) – Mid-America Technology Center (Wayne, Oklahoma) Caleb Simon (Bronze) – Dakota County Technical College (Rosemount, Minnesota)
    • Diesel Equipment Technology (College) Ben Strupp (Silver) – Madison Area Technical College (Madison, Wisconsin)

    The ASE Education Foundation provides solutions to the technician shortage, working with nearly 2,000 automotive technology training programs and over 100,000 students nationally to provide the transportation industry a skilled entry level workforce through standards and credentials for institutions and individuals.

  • Arkansas crowns its top technicians

    Arkansas crowns its top technicians

    Numerous professional technicians won awards during a competition held as part of the 2025 Arkansas Truck Driving Championship competition

    The event last month was hosted by the Arkansas Trucking Association at the Rogers Convention Center in Rogers, Arkansas.

    The Trailer Technician Champion was Jimmy Eichelberger, who works for Tyson Foods. Runner-up was Michael Cunningham from W&B Service Co. 

    First place winners in the trailer tech competition were: 

    • Alignment: Harold Franklin – J.B. Hunt Transport
    • Electrical: Jimmy Eichelberger – Tyson Foods 
    • Fasteners & Fittings: Mason Smith – Maverick Transportation 
    • Foundation Brakes: Daniel Pallo – J.B. Hunt Transport 
    • PMI: Josh Simmons – Tyson Foods 
    • Tire & Wheel Analysis Josh Simmons – Tyson Foods 
    • Tire Inflation: Jordan Burris – Tyson Foods 
    • Wheel End: Dustin Billy – McKee Foods Transportation 
    • Written Exam: Jimmy Eichelberger – Tyson Foods 

    The Truck Technician champion was Benjamin Kirtley of J.B. Hunt Transport, and the runner-up was Tommy Crenshaw of McKee Foods Transportation.  

    First place winners in the truck tech event included: 

    • Aftertreatment: Benjamin Kirtley – J.B. Hunt Transport 
    • Air Conditioning/Refrigeration: Tommy Crenshaw – McKee Foods Transportation
    • Air Systems & Brakes: Benjamin Kirtley – J.B. Hunt Transport 
    • Drive Train: Haston Hellum – Rush Truck Centers 
    • Electrical: Canaan Silcox – Rush Truck Centers 
    • Engines & Associated: Tommy Crenshaw – McKee Foods Transportation 
    • Fastener & Fittings Benjamin Kirtley – J.B. Hunt Transport 
    • Fifth Wheel: Benjamin Kirtley – J.B. Hunt Transport 
    • PMI: Thomas Pianalto – Rush Truck Centers 
    • Service Information: Benjamin Kirtley – J.B. Hunt Transport 
    • Steering & Suspension: Thomas Pianalto – Rush Truck Centers 
    • Wheel End: Benjamin Kirtley – J.B. Hunt Transport 
    • Written Exam: Thomas Pianalto – Rush Truck Centers 

    The Team Award was won by Rush Truck Centers.

  • Silverado pickups recalled for brake fluid leak, possible fire hazard

    Silverado pickups recalled for brake fluid leak, possible fire hazard

    General Motors recently recalled more than 62,000 pickup trucks because of a potential brake defect that could increase the risk of fire, the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said recently.

    The recall covers 2019-2024 Chevrolet Silverado Medium Duty vehicles.

    The NHTSA said in a statement, “The brake pressure sensor assembly may leak brake fluid into the brake pressure switch and cause a short circuit.”  GM has said the leak could cause a short circuit and potentially a fire. Owners are advised to park their pickups outdoors and away from houss and other structures.

    Dealers were notified by GM as of June 12, and have been instructed to replace brake pressure switch wire harnesses on impacted vehicles. Vehicle owners will be mailed letters by July 28, with another round of letters to be sent out once a repair is available.

    GMC has also issued recalls of some Silverado pickups for an engine problem and for an issue with tailgates.

  • PACCAR TX-12 PRO automated transmission availability expands

    PACCAR TX-12 PRO automated transmission availability expands

    Kenworth recently annnounced it is expanding availability of its PACCAR TX-12 PRO automated transmission, bringing it to several models within the company’s medium duty line. Ranging from Class 7 to light Class 8, the vocational transmission is available on the Kenworth T380 and T480, when matched with the PACCAR PX-9 engine.

    The PACCAR PX-9, with what the company said is one of the highest power-to-weight ratios in the industry, can be spec’d with peak horsepower ranging between 260- and 380 for on-highway and vocational use; up to 450 hp with 1,250 lb.-ft. of torque for fire service vehicles. 

    The PACCAR TX-12 PRO was designed for rugged service and low-end drive performance applications like dump truck, snowplow, or in chassis-mounted tanker configuration, Kenworth said in a statement. Additionally, the TX-12 PRO features an extreme duty clutch for low-speed maneuvering, and rock free mode to help trucks get unstuck in mud or sand. Plus, it has an off-highway calibration tuned for changing soil conditions. The 12-speed gear set provides wide ratio coverage, allowing for excellent maneuverability without sacrificing fuel economy at highway speeds, Kenworth said.

    For those applications requiring a PTO, The TX-12 PRO is available with dual openings – a bottom mount 8-bolt and 4-bolt rear mount for a combined 95 hp capacity.

    To monitor performance and to ensure long-life, the transmission and clutch are both equipped with internal oil temperature sensors. Their temperatures can be displayed on the in-cab 7-inch digital display and can provide driver notifications in situations causing excessive temperatures.

    Oil maintenance intervals for the TX-12 PRO are 250,000 miles, and the clutch is maintenance-free.

  • Nominations open for Women in Auto Care awards

    Nominations open for Women in Auto Care awards

    Women in Auto Care, a community of the Auto Care Association, recently announced that nominations are now open for the 2025 Women in Auto Care Awards, an annual awards program that celebrates the outstanding contributions of women and allies across the automotive aftermarket. 

    Award nominations must be submitted by July 21.

    Each year, Women in Auto Care recognizes excellence in leadership, innovation and dedication through five distinct awards:

    • Women of Excellence (Class of four)
    • Outstanding Leadership
    • Shop Owner of the Year
    • Lifetime Achievement
    • Company Ally of the Year

    See last year’s winners here.

    “The Women in Auto Care Awards are integral to our mission as we, thanks to the nominations from this community, are able to celebrate the incredible achievements of eight women and one company within this incredible industry,” said Elle Lawhead, chair, Women in Auto Care. “Over the past several years, we’ve honored women within varying roles in this industry including warehousing, heavy duty, shops, manufacturers and tech—with roles ranging from shop owner, HR, marketing and CEO—and I look forward to seeing who will be a part of the class of 2025.”

    Administered by the Women in Auto Care Leadership Council and supported by dedicated volunteer judges, the awards are presented at the annual Women in Auto Care Awards ceremony breakfast and reception during the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) in Las Vegas. 

    All auto care industry professionals are encouraged to nominate a deserving woman or company who is making an impact for the 2025 Women in Auto Care Awards.