Stories @ TCAT

Leesburg, Va. - SkillsUSA has teamed up with leading transportation and logistics provider Ryder System, Inc. to help educate the next generation of commercial vehicle technicians. Ryder is providing grants to enhance diesel technology classrooms nationwide, including a diesel lab at Tennessee College of Applied Technology Harriman in Harriman, Tenn. Local instructor Kevin Human plans to use the grant to update equipment and technology resources. “We plan to use the funds to purchase a new air conditioning recovery, recycling and recharging machine that will help tremendously with effectively training students,” he explained.

 

Nationally, the Ryder Charitable Foundation, which directs charitable giving and support on behalf of Ryder, has awarded five classroom grants of $5,000 each to support the purchase of new equipment or tools. For many years to come, this will impact students who train in these programs. Additionally, up to 22 student scholarships totaling $22,000 will be awarded to SkillsUSA students nationwide who continue their education in Diesel Equipment Technology. SkillsUSA has more than 2,600 student members – 998 college/postsecondary and 3,635 high school members – who are enrolled in Diesel Equipment Technology in 258 classroom labs across the United States.

 

“Ryder is proud to take the lead in committing to help grow the pool of qualified diesel technicians,” said Patrick Pendergast, Group Director of Recruiting Services, Ryder. “Through our partnership with SkillsUSA, we are investing in technological advancements and education, but ultimately, we are investing in the very people who have the power to influence the future of America’s commercial vehicle transportation industry.”

 

“This generous sponsorship from Ryder presents an amazing opportunity for diesel classrooms to upgrade and purchase new equipment,” said Tim Lawrence, SkillsUSA executive director. “We are also thrilled that Ryder plans to provide student grants for those who plan to continue their education in Diesel Equipment Technology after high school. This is a wonderful opportunity for diesel students and schools and we are very grateful to Ryder for their partnership and support.”

 

Ryder, known for quality technicians in the industry, values the importance of technical training for ensuring the quality maintenance of its more than 230,000 total vehicles managed. They have a commitment to quality customer service for Ryder’s lease and maintenance customers.

 

SkillsUSA is a vital solution to the growing U.S. skills gap. This nonprofit partnership of students, instructors and industry ensures America has the skilled workforce it needs to stay competitive. Founded in 1965 and endorsed by the U.S. Department of Education, SkillsUSA serves more than 300,000 students and instructors each year in middle schools, high schools and colleges. This diverse talent pipeline covers 130 technical, skilled and service occupations, the majority STEM-related. More than 600 corporations, trade associations, businesses and labor unions actively support SkillsUSA at the national level. SkillsUSA programs are integrated into career and technical education through a framework of personal, workplace and technical skills grounded in academics. Local, state and national championships, planned and judged by industry, set relevant standards for career and technical education and provide needed recognition to its students. SkillsUSA also offers technical skill assessments and other workplace credentials. For more information, go to: www.SkillsUSA.org.

 

Established in 1984, the Ryder Charitable Foundation demonstrates community and industry leadership and inspires trust by supporting causes that address needs in communities where Ryder does business in the United States. The Foundation proactively solicits proposals from and awards grants solely to IRS certified, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations whose goals align with Ryder’s core values in four strategic pillars – Expertise, Innovation, Safety, and Collaboration. The Foundation is funded by operating profits of Ryder System, Inc., (NYSE: R), a leader in commercial fleet management, dedicated transportation, and supply chain solutions. To find out what diesel technician positions are available at Ryder, click here. For more information, go to: www.ryder.com.