Truckworx and Wallace State Community College announced an enhancement of the longtime partnership between the company and the college’s diesel technology program on Sept. 10.

The partnership now includes the donation of a 2016 Kenworth T680 daycab truck, Paccar engine, and Endurant transmission for use in both Wallace State’s traditional and “Diesel by Distance” programs.

In addition to serving traditional students on campus, Wallace State’s Diesel by Distance program allows students to earn the same academic degrees and certificates with limited visits to the school’s campus, located in Hanceville, Alabama. These distance learning students also have the ability to work at dealerships and trucking companies while learning in an academic environment.

The program utilizes virtual reality headsets to train its students, in addition to traditional hands-on learning in the shop. Each student is equipped with a headset, in addition to a computer and WiFi access, if needed.

Overall, Wallace State’s diesel technology program consists of 53 students, with 18 of those participating in the Diesel by Distance program, including six female students.

Through the ATA Foundation, the Alabama Trucking Association has created its Workforce Development Initiative, solely focused on recruiting new talent and individuals into the trucking industry. The initiative uses persona research to determine which individuals might be a good fit for the field.

Truckworx currently employs six graduates of Wallace State’s diesel technology program, in addition to another employee who is currently enrolled in the Diesel by Distance program.