Ryder Expands Diesel Training Programs for Technician Shortage

Ryder System is broadening its diesel maintenance technician training programs to bolster the recruitment and preparation of skilled technicians.

The company's diverse learning initiatives are geared towards delivering training, a comprehensive course curriculum, and valuable mentorship opportunities to student trainees, early-career professionals, and military veterans.

Technician Excellence Program

Ryder plans to expand its three existing Ryder Technician Excellence Centers to include several new locations throughout North America in the near future.

Each center will offer a six-week curriculum that delivers instructor-led classrooms and hands-on training on topics such as preventive maintenance, tire and wheel diagnostics and repair, battery and voltmeter basics, circuit testing and fundamentals of air, and hydraulic brake systems.

As the industry grapples with retaining skilled technicians, the learning course is designed to help prepare new and early career technicians through an accelerated learning track.

High School Program

Ryder’s diesel maintenance technician training program updates include the launch of the Ryder Accelerated Maintenance Program (RAMP), which offers high school seniors an opportunity to obtain hands-on experience by working part-time in a Ryder facility.

Through RAMP, student trainees are partnered with certified Ryder diesel maintenance technicians, who serve as volunteer mentors by providing coaching and performance feedback that aligns with a school’s automotive or diesel program.

Upon successful completion of the program, students will have the option of exploring full-time employment at a Ryder location.

Technician Trainee Program

Ryder’s Technician Trainee Program is an intensive eighteen-month, blended-learning curriculum that begins with training on engaging with customers, conducting multi-point vehicle inspections, and fuel vehicles.

Throughout the program, the technician trainee will complete numerous training assignments, from one-on-one interactions with employees in various operational roles to technical instructor-led classes on foundational topics such as air conditioning, heavy-duty electrical systems, and Ryder’s preventive maintenance.

Military Veterans

As part of Ryder’s training initiatives, the company also works to leverage and strengthen military personnel's unique work experiences, transferrable skills, and inherent leadership qualities.

Since 2016, Ryder’s Pathway Home program has been easing the transition to civilian life for hundreds of U.S. soldiers through a twelve-week diesel maintenance technician training course and offering employment opportunities as a Ryder technician upon completion of the training.

From 2011 through 2023, Ryder hired more than 14,000 veterans, including more than 350 soldiers who completed the Pathway Home program.