Penske Truck Leasing recently held a dedication ceremony at the Lincoln Tech campus in East Windsor, Connecticut, as the company branded a diesel training lab and adjacent corridor, according to the company's press release. 

The lab will be utilized for hands-on diesel technology training, which introduces students to various topics such as vehicle and engine system maintenance and repair, industry certifications, and career opportunities in the industry.

Over the last 10 years, Penske has hired more than 1,000 Lincoln Tech graduates nationally to work as truck maintenance technicians in its regional operations. 

“The next generation of diesel maintenance technicians is vital to the Penske talent pipeline and the entire industry”, said Andrew Vassil, area VP of Penske Truck Leasing. “As we support Lincoln Tech’s diesel program, that support is also absorbed by the students who receive its first-class training – in an ideal environment. Properly trained diesel technicians fuel uptime and supply chain efficiency.”

According to the release, the U.S. trucking industry hauls more than 70% of all transported freight. Penske works with leading technical schools, and related organizations such as SkillsUSA and the TechForce Foundation, to meet the current and future demand for technicians.

“Teaming with Penske Truck Leasing will not only help our graduates start rewarding careers in a fast-paced, engaging industry – it will also help keep the American economy moving forward as the workforce grows,” said Scott Shaw, Lincoln Tech president/CEO. “Penske’s support of our effort to bridge the skills gap will be invaluable in addressing the ongoing shortage of skilled technicians.”