Navistar announced the implementation of its International Truck and IC Bus Uptime Academy, a 12-month technician apprenticeship program that offers paid, hands-on training in a real-world setting. 

The new program presents a unique approach to technician training from a 90-day dealership rotation to on-the-job class assignments, Navistar says. Students work with multiple vehicle types, including electric and fuel cell technologies. On top of 3,200 hours of on-the-job training, students receive 800 hours of classroom time and lab work, a journeyman toolbox, laptop and Navistar mentor.

“With the technician shortage at an all-time high, this is the perfect opportunity for future potential technicians to get their feet wet and experience working for the country’s largest commercial vehicle service network,” said Ana Salcido, manager, Technician Recruitment, Navistar. “Uptime Academy offers the benefit of working closely with new technologies, sending technicians into the industry prepared for what is to come.”

West Michigan International Service Manager Jason Carley oversees Uptime Academy apprentice Andrew Langeland and his technician mentor Jay Schick. Carley has seen firsthand the knowledge and skills Langeland has gained and considers him a major asset to the Western Michigan International service center.

“We are very excited for the opportunities Uptime Academy has provided to aide Andrew in becoming a master certified technician within our department,” said Carley. “Communication with the academy team has been instrumental, and they continue to support and provide the proper resources to make this program possible. We are already seeing positive outcomes and are excited about future opportunities.”

“Uptime Academy helps me by applying the skills I learn in class to the real world with mentors who are committed to my career success,” said Langeland. “Not only do I get sponsored by a dealer and have my tuition covered, but I also have the great benefit of being paid while learning.”

To further aid technician education, dealers from around the U.S. have donated equipment to local colleges and technical programs through the TECH EmPOWERment initiative. The program supplies accredited technical schools with equipment, real-world advisory counsel and prospects for aspiring technicians.

Recent donations by International truck dealers include:

·         San Jacinto College in Houston, Texas by Kyrish Truck Centers
·         Tennessee College of Applied Technology in Memphis, Tennessee by Landmark Trucks
·         Laramie County Community College in Laramie, Wyoming by McCandless International of Cheyenne
·         Chippewa Valley Technical College in Eau Claire, Wisconsin by Mid-State Truck Service Inc.
·         Wexford Missaukee Career Technical Center in Cadillac, Michigan by Zeremba Equipment Inc.
·         Johnsburg High School in Johnsburg, Illinois by Rush Truck Center of Huntley
·         Oconee Fall Line Technical College in Sandersville, Georgia by Rush Truck Center of Macon
·         Central Georgia Technical College in Macon, Georgia by Rush Truck Center of Macon

To learn more about Uptime Academy, visit www.internationaltrucks.com/support/tech-empowerment/uptime-academy.