Every year, school bus manufacturer Thomas Built Buses like other large bus producers provides hands-on workshops to keep bus technicians up to speed on everything from proper maintenance to the latest technology.
Designed to complement school districts’ existing training programs, this year’s Thomas Built Institute will be held May 7 to 10 in Greensboro, N.C. A second session will be held in conjunction with the STN Expo at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nev., July 23 to 26.
“We know how tough it is to keep up with ever-changing technology, EPA standards and safety regulations,” said Mike Stotler, service education manager for Thomas Built Buses. “The annual Thomas Built Institute has become a very popular opportunity for school bus technicians to get hands-on training and a factory-certified curriculum in small classes, all in less than a week’s time.”
Participating technicians select the track they prefer and receive 28 credit hours of continuing education. The company recommends enrolling early, as registration is limited to 100 participants to ensure small classes and personal attention. The cost is $325 and includes lunch and ground transportation.
“It’s the best training I’ve been to in 26 years,” said Duane Chapman, fleet coordinator for 72 vehicles at Shawnee Heights (Kansas) Unified School District 450. “Thomas Built Buses’ hands-on training helped me learn faster ways to keep the buses running smoothly.”
The 2013 institute curriculum includes the following:
- 2013 Emissions System;
- Advanced Electrical; and
- A choice of one of the following tracks:
- Type C: Multiplex, Service Link and Troubleshooting; or
- Type D: Electrical and Fan Drive;
- Coolant, Maintenance and Cost Savings;
- Utilizing Websites, Resources and Wire Diagrams; and
- Factory Tours
Headquartered in High Point, N.C., Thomas Built Buses, Inc. is a subsidiary of Daimler Trucks North America LLC.
