Tag: #dieselmechanics

Posted on by shaneuttenhove

A Week in the Shop: Summer Camp Gives Students a Real Look at TechKnowledge

More Than Just a Campus Tour

From June 22-26, we welcomed high school students from North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, and Nebraska to the TechKnowledge program at Lake Area Technical College for our first Summer Camp of the year.

Instead of walking through the building for an hour and heading home, these students got to spend an entire day in the shop alongside our current first-year TechKnowledge students. They worked on the same assignments, asked questions, got their hands dirty, and saw what a normal day in the program really looks like.

That’s exactly what we wanted them to experience.

Learning the Important Stuff

This week’s focus was HVAC.

Let’s be honest…it probably isn’t the topic that gets most people excited about diesel technology. But every technician needs to understand it. Today’s equipment depends on climate control systems that are far more advanced than most people realize, and being able to diagnose and repair them is part of becoming a well-rounded technician.

More importantly, students got to see that being a diesel tech isn’t just turning wrenches. It’s troubleshooting, understanding electrical systems, using technology, and solving problems every day.

Learning From Students Who Were Just in Their Shoes

One of the best parts of camp was watching our current first-year students work with the campers.

Not long ago, they were asking the same questions and trying to decide if TechKnowledge was the right fit for them. Now they’re the ones helping the next group of students learn the basics and showing them what life in the program is really like.

It’s a great reminder of how much confidence and experience students gain during their first year.

Looking Ahead to July

Every student who attended left with a TechKnowledge t-shirt, lunch, and hopefully a better understanding of what a career as a diesel technician can look like.

If you missed the first week, there’s still another opportunity.

Our second Summer Camp runs July 13-17 and will focus on Machine Technology. Just like the first week, students will choose one day to attend and spend it working in the shop with current TechKnowledge students.

If you’re curious about becoming a diesel technician, there’s no better way to find out if it’s the right fit than spending a day doing exactly what our students do.

Register here!

Lake Area Technical College- TechKnowledge program information

Celebrating Our Newest Technician Graduates

Posted on by brianhuinker

Celebrating the Next Generation of Technicians at Platte Valley Equipment

Hard work pays off. This spring, Platte Valley Equipment proudly celebrates the graduation of several student technician interns who are stepping into full-time careers with our team. These graduates completed their programs at Southeast Community College in the John Deere Tech program, the TechKnowledge Program at Lake Area Technical College and Northeast Community College in the Nebraska Diesel Technician program.

Their achievement marks an exciting milestone. More importantly, it highlights the dedication, skill, and determination each student brought to the shop floor every day.

From Classroom to Career

Throughout their internships, these students gained real-world experience alongside experienced Platte Valley Equipment technicians. They tackled diagnostics, completed repairs, and learned the latest John Deere equipment technology firsthand.

At the same time, they balanced classroom instruction with hands-on training. That combination prepared them for success from day one.

Now, they officially move from interns to full-time team members.

That transition matters. Agriculture continues to evolve quickly, and skilled technicians play a critical role in keeping customers running. Because of that, Platte Valley Equipment invests heavily in training and development programs that create long-term opportunities.

Building the Future of Service

These Student Technician Programs develop students with strong technical knowledge and practical experience. As a result, graduates enter the workforce ready to solve problems and support today’s advanced equipment systems.

Platte Valley Equipment values that preparation. Even more, we value the work ethic and positive attitude these graduates demonstrated throughout their internships.

Their willingness to learn stood out immediately. In addition, their commitment to customer service reflected the culture we work hard to build across every location.

Congratulations to Our Graduates

Graduation represents more than earning a diploma. It represents persistence, growth, and a commitment to excellence.

Everyone at Platte Valley Equipment congratulates these graduates on their accomplishment and welcomes them into their full-time roles. We look forward to supporting their continued growth as they begin the next chapter of their careers.

Most importantly, we thank them for choosing to build that future with Platte Valley Equipment.

https://plattevalleyequipment.com/

Think Big About Your Future

Posted on by ellenchildress

The future of agriculture is innovative, high-tech, and full of opportunity—and students at the North Bend Central SkillsUSA Think Big Career Fair got a firsthand look at what that future can hold.

 

Held in conjunction with SkillsUSA Week, the event brought together engaged, motivated students and community partners who are passionate about building tomorrow’s workforce. 

Students didn’t just stop by—they came prepared. With interactive bingo cards designed to spark conversation, students asked thoughtful questions and explored what a real career in agriculture looks like beyond the classroom.

One of the most exciting topics discussed was the opportunity to become an Ag Technician—a hands-on, in-demand career that blends mechanical skills, advanced technology, and problem-solving.

Students learned how Platte Valley supports career growth through on-the-job training, mentorship, and the opportunity to attend college tuition-free through the John Deere Technician program. That means less student debt and more time focusing on building a meaningful, rewarding career.

The energy in the room was contagious. Platte Valley Equipment was proud to be part of the conversation.

With community businesses, public services, and statewide colleges all present, students could truly Think Big about their futures.

If you’re passionate about technology, enjoy working with your hands, and want a career that makes a real impact,

Your future in agriculture starts here.

 

Smart Careers: Why You Should Consider a Diesel Service Technician Career with PVE

Posted on by ellenchildress

Becoming a diesel service technician stands out for its blend of hands-on problem-solving, job stability, and strong earning potential.

In today’s job market, where college debt looms large and office jobs dominate discussions, trade careers shine as practical, rewarding alternatives.’

Here’s why pursuing a career in diesel tech is a great idea.

1. Demand is Surging

First and foremost, Diesel engines power essential sectors like agriculture and other industries.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 2% employment growth for diesel service technicians from 2024 to 2034. On average, there are 26,500 annual openings due to retirements and industry needs. Furthermore, supply lags: In 2025, 65.5% of diesel shops were understaffed, with 19.3% of positions unfilled on average.

2. Rewards are Substantial

Next, many complete vocational programs in under two years. Median annual pay hit $60,640 in 2024, with averages around $64,575 nationally, and potential for overtime or specialization pushing earnings higher.

Unlike desk jobs, you’ll enjoy dynamic work: diagnosing electronics, repairing hydraulics, and tackling mechanical issues.

Future-proof.

Lastly, as equipment evolves with tech like precision GPS, skilled techs stay in demand amid a “silver tsunami” of retiring workers. Opportunities span dealerships, fleets, and independent shops, with room for advancement.

Remember: a career in the trades as a diesel technician isn’t just a job—it’s a gateway to security, satisfaction, and impact.

Learn how  you can skip the debt, embrace the tools, and build a life where your skills drive success with Platte Valley Equipment.