Baker College of Owosso, Mich., has announced a $2.5 million facility and equipment investment for the start of a new certificate program in Diesel Service Technology for heavy-duty trucks and buses this fall.

Baker has purchased a 20,000-square-foot building in Owosso Township, at 1900 Krouse Road, to house the program. Renovations to the facility are expected to begin this spring, with classes starting in September.
Baker's new program will help fill an employment shortage of qualified diesel technicians for heavy-duty trucks and buses. According to the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Growth, it is anticipated there will be 280 annual job openings in Michigan alone through the year 2012.
"Our Diesel Service Technology program will appeal to traditional and non traditional students, because in about a year, an individual can be fully prepared to enter a new, high-demand, high-paying job market," said Denise A. Bannan, Ph.D., Baker College of Owosso president.
Like all Baker College automotive technology programs, Owosso's Diesel Service Technology program is designed to meet the requirements for certification by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) through the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF).
The program will prepare individuals to maintain, diagnose and repair medium and heavy-duty vehicles and to perform successfully on the certification exams required for all persons seeking work as diesel mechanics/technicians in the State of Michigan. Students will focus on electrical systems, diesel engines, heavy-duty brakes and suspensions along with other certification/licensure areas of their choice.
Baker's program meets the requirements for financial aid. Students who qualify can receive a variety of grants to offset the costs of tuition. Day and night programs are offered throughout the year.
For more information, e-mail Mike Konopacke at mike.konopacke@baker.edu or call the Baker College of Owosso admissions office at (989) 729-3350 or (800) 879-3797.