A new partnership roared to life this spring between Clark College’s Diesel program and Portland Tractor, giving students hands-on access to modern heavy equipment and real-world training.

Through this collaboration, students learned how to assemble – and disassemble – complex heavy machinery, such as tractor gear boxes and transmissions. Portland Tractor graciously donated half of the equipment needed for this training and loaned the college the rest so that students could have full access to the tools that mirror what they’ll encounter in the field.

Students learned how to operate heavy-duty transmissions; tear down, inspect, and reassemble drive chains; read Caterpillar part lists and schematics; and master general mechanic skills and crane rigging and hoisting techniques. For many students, this was their first time handling large-scale equipment – an experience that sparked conversations about potential career paths available in the heavy equipment industry.

Taylor Cusack, operations analyst at Portland Tractor, was key in bringing the partnership to life, serving as the liaison between Clark and Portland Tractor. She created the banner that proudly hangs in the shop on campus and coordinated equipment deliveries.

But the most familiar name may have been John Holbrook, Technical Services Manager at Portland Tractor and a proud Clark alum from the class of 1984. John returned to campus for two weeks to support students and faculty as they worked on the new equipment. His connection to Clark runs deep, studying under Professor Bell as part of the student crew that helped build the campus sundial.

Many of the students who worked with John this term expressed interest in joining the Portland Tractor team, continuing the company’s long history of hiring Clark graduates over the year.

While Portland Tractor has been the program’s largest industry partner, it’s not the only one. The Diesel program also collaborates with Noregon, a computer software company, and Tekton Hand Tools, providing students access to state-of-the-art tools and technology across disciplines.

Partnerships like this one provide students with things that go beyond tangible tools – students receive mentorship, exposure to industry expectations, and the confidence that comes from real-world practice. These collaborations deepen their learning experience and play a crucial role in helping students to graduate career-ready and equipped to thrive in today’s evolving industry.

About Portland Tractor

Since 1976, Portland Tractor Inc. (PTI) has been a leading supplier of Caterpillar rebuilt and used/salvage heavy equipment parts, new OEM surplus parts, aftermarket parts, components, and attachments. Located in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Portland Tractor’s yard in Washougal is spread across 10 acres and includes over 60,000 square feet under the roof and holds not only the machines that they are currently dismantling, but also a wide selection of attachments, tires, wheels, and parts.

Learn More About Clark College’s Diesel Technology Program

Clark’s Diesel program prepares students for entry-level positions in the diesel technician trade, and it keeps up with industry changes through new and improved training in basic electronics and electrical systems. Students learn to work on brake systems, drive trains, electric and electronic circuits, hydraulic systems, and diesel engines, all of which are valuable skills for a successful career.

Learn more about the Diesel program at Clark.

Photos: Clark College/Jenny Shadley

At Clark’s Diesel Technology open house on June 1, faculty and students demonstrated diagnostic tools and systems, and showcased diesel trucks and heavy equipment to visitors. 

Potential diesel students had the opportunity to bring family members for a close-up look at Clark’s diesel program. Professor Don Gonser gave informal tours, and current diesel students answered questions and talked about their experiences in Clark’s program. 

Some high school students who visited the open house currently are studying diesel technology at Cascadia Technical Academy, a high school that includes a diesel program which offers a seamless transition to Clark’s program. 

“We articulate 20 credits from Cascadia Tech’s diesel program,” said Professor Don Gonser, explaining that it saves Clark students two lab classes and substantial tuition expenses. 

Alex Baumgartner, 19, transferred 20 credits from Cascadia Tech. He is completing his first year in Clark’s program and already works as a diesel mechanic at Civil Works NW in Brush Prairie.  

“It makes sense to choose something that’s going to pay you a livable wage,” Baumgartner said as he demonstrated the air brake diagnostic equipment to visitors.  

Stephen Korn is finishing his first year in the diesel program. He has 10 years’ diesel experience in the field, including in the military. He is earning his degree so that he can advance in his career and move up to management.  

Jayden Schauer, a second-year student who is preparing to graduate, said, “There’s so much opportunity in the diesel field. You can work in construction on heavy equipment, in trucking, on marine engines, in power generation used by big data centers, and more.” 

The median hourly wage for a diesel engine specialist in Clark, Cowlitz, and Wahkiakum counties is $29.09 per hour and median annual wage is $60,517, according to Washington Department of Employment Security Data Department/Data Division. 

Clark College’s diesel program offers a Diesel Technician Certificate of Proficiency and an Associate in Applied Science, a two-year degree. 

Those interested in enrolling in Diesel Technology are encouraged to begin the program in summer term but can enter the program any term. Summer classes begin July 10.  

To get started, contact the Welcome Center or contact Professor Don Gonser at dgonser@clark.edu. 

Photos: Clark College/Susan Parrish

Clark College is hosting a free workshop for women interested in advanced manufacturing and the mechanical trades on Thursday, September 9 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Clark College’s main campus. 

This roll-up-your-sleeves event is designed specifically for women to learn about the exciting career opportunities that are available in the mechanical and advanced-manufacturing fields. Guests will be able to tour the college’s Automotive, Diesel, and Welding labs, participate in hands-on activities, and speak with professors.  

Closed-toe shoes and long jeans are required; long-sleeved shirts are recommended. Safety goggles and masks are required and will be provided. 

Properly trained technicians are in high demand in the advanced manufacturing and mechanical industries, and these careers can be rewarding both financially and professionally. However, a recent study found that only 1 in 3 manufacturing professionals are women. 

“We know that, even in this day and age, women can be discouraged from pursuing careers in fields like automotive technology and welding,” said Armetta Burney, Clark College Interim Dean of Workforce Professional Technical Education and STEM. “And yet for years we’ve seen our female students succeed in these programs and enter the workforce. The college is holding this event in hopes of showing women the range of career opportunities available to them.” 

Two $1,800 scholarships will be made available to students who attend this event and enroll in a Clark College Automotive, Diesel, or Welding program by fall 2022. One scholarship was made available by Madden Industrial Craftsmen, the other through an anonymous donor.  

Women interested in attending the event can learn more at https://tinyurl.com/yfb6e6qk or contact Hernan Garzon at hgarzon@clark.edu. The event is free and open to the public, though prior registration is encouraged. Guests will meet in the Automotive Technology lab on Clark College’s main campus (near the Orange 1 parking lot), 1933 Ft. Vancouver Way. Maps and directions are available at www.clark.edu/maps. If you need accommodation due to a disability in order to fully participate in this event, you should contact Clark College’s Disability Support Services Office at 360-992-2314 or 360-992-0901 VP, as soon as possible.   

Clark College expressly prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, perceived or actual physical or mental disability, pregnancy, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, creed, religion, honorably discharged veteran or military status, citizenship, immigration status, or use of a trained guide dog or service animal in its programs and activities. Learn more at www.clark.edu/nds.