TLDR:
- Four Careerline Tech Center students excelled at the Regional SkillsUSA Diesel Equipment Technology competition.
- They demonstrated technical skills in areas like running engines and braking systems, as well as soft skills in mock employment interviews.
A quartet of students from the Ottawa Area Intermediate School District’s Careerline Tech Center stood out at the Regional SkillsUSA Diesel Equipment Technology competition. The competition, held at Lansing Community College, saw students from the Diesel/Heavy Equipment Mechanics program sweep the top three places in the Diesel Technology contest, with another student earning second place in the Heavy Equipment Operator contest. The students showcased their skills in various areas, such as engines, drivetrain components, and braking systems, and also had their soft skills evaluated in mock employment interviews. Each student will now move on to the state competition in Grand Rapids in April. The Diesel/HEM program at CTC provides students with a comprehensive two-year program that covers operation, maintenance, overhaul of diesel-powered equipment, and hands-on experience with troubleshooting and repairing customer-owned equipment. Program instructor Jason Alberda expressed pride in the students’ accomplishments and their willingness to step out of their comfort zones. Overall, the success of these students highlights the quality of education and training offered at Careerline Tech Center.