A Wisconsin International Truck dealership is taking the technician shortage into its own hands. In what it calls a “groundbreaking” move to tackle an ongoing talent shortage in the diesel mechanics industry, Lakeside International Trucks has launched its own school to prepare a new generation of diesel truck technicians.

It's called Lakeside DieselTech Academy. And the goal of the new school is to develop home-grown new technicians in less than a year.

The educational initiative is designed for graduating high school students who prefer hands-on learning over the traditional college route.

A New Standard in Workforce Education

Headquartered in Milwaukee, Lakeside International Trucks operates locations in Milwaukee, Janesville, Madison, Monroe, Racine, Sheboygan and West Bend, Wisconsin, and Rockford, Illinois.

By addressing the talent shortage with this approach, Lakeside International Trucks said it is setting a new standard in workforce development.

“Helping Lakeside build the academy has been an incredible experience,” said Darrell DeBoer, diesel technician instructor and curriculum specialist. “Our program is different than a typical technical school. Lakeside brings together both the structure of a school curriculum with the practical aspect of working in the field.”

DeBoer has more than 20 years’ experience as a diesel power instructor.

Valued at $54,000, Lakeside DieselTech Academy offers an intensive 800-hour industry-recognized training program, comprehensive toolkits and full room and board during training weeks—all at no cost to participants.

Lakeside said the “forward-thinking program” is a “game-changer” in developing skilled technicians to meet the high demand in the industry.

“Lakeside realized the need to innovate to find up and coming skilled diesel technicians, especially with fewer young people entering the trades,” said Rob Durham, vice president of marketing and human resources at Lakeside International Trucks.

“This new approach not only addresses the critical talent shortage but also provides a unique, hands-on learning experience in a small group setting. We're opening doors for young people who love problem-solving and who like working with their hands.

"Lakeside DieselTech Academy is about more than education — it's about creating opportunities and building the future of our industry to support it and the broader economy.”

On-the-Job Training

Participants become paid employees of Lakeside International Trucks from day one of the 10-month program, which integrates 80 hours of instructor-led training with 80 hours of on-the-job training per month.

The curriculum spans eight units and culminates in over 12 industry certifications, including an opportunity to obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL).

“Participants are not just students — they're valued employees,” Durham said. “We provide them with competitive wages, full benefits and a state-of-the-art learning environment."

"Our ‘earn as you learn’ model ensures that they receive real-world experience and industry certifications, setting them up for a successful career. This program is a game-changer for both our industry and the young people who join us.”

“We recognize that investing in the training and development of diesel technicians is not just an investment in our business, but an investment in the future of the entire industry," said Bill Reilley Jr., CEO and president of Lakeside International Trucks.

“By equipping our technicians with the latest skills and knowledge, we ensure that our customers receive the highest quality service, and we contribute to the growth and sustainability of the trucking sector.”

Applications for the fall 2024 inaugural class are now being accepted. For more information, visit the Lakeside International Trucks website or contact Rob Durham.