Every school day, 26 million U.S. school children count on nearly half a million school buses to get them to school on time. And, with a long track record as a leading U.S. manufacturer of school buses, Thomas Built Buses knows what it takes to keep those vehicles running efficiently and reliably.
To help ensure school bus technicians have the educational tools they need to help them work effectively and efficiently, Thomas Built Buses and its dealers offer more than 300 factory-certified classes per year. The Thomas Built Institute, held twice a year, is a signature component of that training program. The first of two 2012 Institutes will take place April 24-27 at Thomas' High Point, N.C., facility.
The weeklong curriculum of the Thomas Built Institute is designed to complement existing school bus maintenance programs. Participating technicians receive hands-on training in small classes that cover a variety of subjects.
"We realize that it's hard to keep up with new technologies, as well as changing EPA standards," said Mike Stotler, service education manager for Thomas Built Buses. "The annual Thomas Built Institute offers school bus technicians first-hand experience in small classes, taught by Thomas Built pros."
The 2012 curriculum includes:
- EPA Emissions Systems
- Advanced Electrical
- Coolant, Maintenance and Cost Savings
- Utilizing Websites, Resources and Wire Diagrams
- Factory Tours
- A Choice of one of the following tracks:
- Type C: Multiplex, Service Link and Troubleshooting; or,
- Type D: Electrical and Fan Drive
Participating technicians select the track they want and receive 28 credit hours of continuing education in less than a week.
To register for the 2012 Thomas Built Institute April 24-27, 2012, visit thomasbus.com/about-us/events. Early enrollment is recommended. Registration is limited to 100 participants to ensure small class sizes and personal attention.
The training is $275 a person, and includes breakfast and lunch.
Thomas Built Buses will offer a second session of the Institute in the fall of 2012 in Omaha, Neb.
