Long Haul Trucking donates truck for HTC student learning
Brooklyn Park, Dec. 8, 2021 – Hennepin Technical College (HTC) received a donation of a 2017 Peterbilt truck for use in its Medium Heavy Truck Technology program. Long Haul Trucking, a company based in Albertville, Minnesota, donated the truck, valued at $60,000.
Students who are learning to become diesel technicians will practice repairing the truck. It provides an opportunity for students to work on the latest technologies including collision avoidance, braking and safety systems.
“The truck is extremely valuable for real-world learning for students. Because it’s a 2017 model with roughly a half a million miles, it needs maintenance and may need some repairs,” said Dale Boyenga, faculty, Medium Heavy Truck program, HTC. “The donation is greatly appreciated and benefits the quality of instruction.”
HTC’s Medium Heavy Truck program has a fleet of 10 trucks in its classroom lab and this is the first Peterbilt available for student use. Not only are trucks expensive, they are also difficult to find. Due to supply chain issues, there’s typically a year-long wait to buy a Peterbilt.
Trucks are scarce and so are trained technicians in the industry. For several years, there’s been a severe shortage of diesel truck technicians in Minnesota and nationwide.
“We have a commitment to supporting technician education. Techs are critical to the success of our company and the future of our industry. We are excited to help students enter their profession as well-trained as possible,” said Jason Michels, chief executive officer and president, Long Haul Trucking.
Because HTC’s Medium Heavy Truck program is a learn-while-you-earn program, students are required to work in the industry while enrolled at the college. Employers often compete even to hire new students who are seeking paid internships. Upon graduation, HTC’s program has 100% job placement for diesel truck technicians.
About Hennepin Technical College
Founded in 1972, Hennepin Technical College is the largest stand-alone technical college in Minnesota. With campuses in Brooklyn Park and Eden Prairie, the college has a diverse student population and offers degree and non-degree courses in over 45 programs. HTC is a member of Minnesota State, which includes 30 colleges and seven state universities.