WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. — Twenty-eight students from a variety of career and technical education schools participated in Pennsylvania College of Technology’s inaugural diesel competition at the institution’s Schneebeli Earth Science Center (ESC).
The well-planned Dec. 10-11 event — which shone a spotlight on hands-on learning, as well as illuminating the corporate partners who encourage students and hire graduates — resulted in scholarships to three top performers should they enroll in the college’s heavy equipment technology (Caterpillar, operator or technician emphasis), diesel technology or electric power generation: diesel emphasis majors.
Northern Tier Career Center (NTCC), which won first place overall and received a $5,000 certificate for training aids from Cleveland Brothers Equipment Co. Inc., also claimed the top-finishing student: Adam Leonard, who won a $10,000 Penn College scholarship. Second place ($7,500) went to Aidan Nunan, from Berks Career & Technology Center (diesel); Bryce Hahn, from North Montco Technical Career Center, was third ($5,000).
“The Northern Tier Career Center is extremely appreciative of Penn College’s initiative in hosting this competition. We are extremely proud of our students and Mr. Richard Decatur, NTCC diesel technology instructor, for their efforts and dedication to their industry,” said Gary Martell, director of the Towanda-based center. “Also, we are extremely grateful for the monetary recognition received from Cleveland Brothers to enhance our program.”
“I can’t say enough about the effort of my students,” Decatur added. “They, along with their parents, continue to show their willingness to support our program. The parents exhibit their encouragement of their children’s education by going above and beyond the normal school day.
“I would like to thank Penn College and all other supporting businesses and partnerships for their inspiration to the students in all schools. With their help and support, students are able to carry on with their career goals.”
Penn College President Davie Jane Gilmour and Justin W. Beishline, assistant dean of diesel technology and natural resources, welcomed guests to dinner, served Friday (Dec. 10) in the Thompson Professional Development Center on main campus. Michael J. Sormilic, of Southbury, Connecticut, added his perspective as a student in electric power generation: diesel emphasis and building automation technology, and sponsors shared the worth that Penn College alumni provide to the industry.
“Thanks to our valued corporate partners, successful alumni and skilled faculty, you have a team of industry experts at your disposal while you are here,” the president told visitors. “In between competition, I encourage you to explore, ask questions and envision your future. You are building your legacy toward rewarding and sustainable careers.”
On Saturday (Dec. 11) at the ESC south of Williamsport, students cycled through 10 industry-sponsored stations and were judged on their aptitude in air brakes, data analysis, differential adjustment, electrical circuits, engine valve adjustment, precision measuring, preventive maintenance inspection, starting and charging, tire wear inspection, and wheel end adjustment.