How Reed Mundy decided to become the solution for struggling techs

Reed Mundy spent over two decades in the heavy equipment and heavy truck repair industries, experiencing the technician shortage firsthand. Shuffling through underprepared and undereducated technicians got old, quick, as did the stresses that came with being a fleet manager. In his own words, “I got very tired of not being able to find quality technicians, so I decided to become the solution.” Mundy has now been an educator for six and a half years, currently serving as Lead Diesel Instructor at Baton Rouge Community College. He already knows that he’ll spend the rest of his career educating and training the next generation. 

Q: How has the field changed with technology evolving so quickly? How do you prepare students for a field in flux?  

Mundy: First and foremost, I educate myself. ASE program accreditation requires 20 hours of annual training, and that’s the minimum. Personally, I do at least 40 hours a year, often closer to 80 or more. I go through module updates from multiple OEMs, so I know what’s coming. I’m not in the shop every day, so I also visit industry partners and learn in person. It’s how I stay relevant. There’s no point in teaching outdated technology that hasn’t been produced in 10 years and is barely on the road anymore. 

Q: Have you had any students you’re particularly proud of? 

Mundy: I could go on and on. I have students who are top performers across entire dealership groups in terms of efficiency. I’ve had students win at the state level in SkillsUSA competitions and place in the top ten nationally. A couple of young women in particular—one is now one of the best diagnostic technicians at United Rentals in all of Louisiana. I could brag about my students all day. 

Q: What role does ASE play for you as an educator? 

Mundy: I think it’s essential. I wish the heavy truck industry valued it more. Some companies really do—FedEx, for example, gives a $7 per hour raise to master truck technicians. Others recognize it but don’t value it as much. The companies that do value it tend to understand that ASE plays a major role in education as an accreditation body. 

Q: Do you try to teach your students that they’re earning certifications for themselves—not just checking a box? 

Mundy: Absolutely. We have a lot of certifications built into both our automotive and diesel/heavy truck programs. We let students know that some of these are essential for improving their education, starting with basic safety and building from there. This industry is constantly changing. Every six months, there’s something new in every part of it. Continuing education and earning certifications show that you’ve been trained to work on the latest technology. 

Q: What are your thoughts on the ASE Instructor Conference? 

Mundy: I attend four or five conferences each year, and this one is hands down my favorite. I talk to the same instructors year after year. I especially enjoy meeting first-year instructors who are trying to navigate everything. They’re excited and eager to learn, and it’s great to see. 

I have a huge amount of respect for ASE and what they’re doing, especially considering the limited budget they give themselves, so I just want to say thank you for supporting us.