Retired truck to provide new learning opportunity for students

Waste Management of Canada (WM) has rolled out a big gift for Heavy Duty Commercial/Transport Mechanics students at Malaspina University-College in Nanaimo with the donation of a retired waste collection truck.

The 20 tonne front-end loader was recently retired from the WM fleet and is worth approximately $15,000.  The truck will provide apprentices and students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience working with its engine mechanics, including the complex hydraulics and compaction systems.

“We are happy to provide this working truck to the students of Malaspina so they can get familiar with the kinds of equipment they’ll work on when they enter their careers,” said Glen Tulloch, WM’s District Operations Manager in Nanaimo. “This donation benefits us as well because when these students graduate, their experience with our equipment may lead them to us as mechanics.” Tulloch added that heavy duty mechanics are in huge demand throughout BC and Canada.

According to Fred MacDonald, Dean of Trades and Applied Technology, the truck will be an effective tool for the Heavy Duty Commercial/Transport Mechanics program's hands-on focus.

“This truck provides a valuable learning resource for our students to explore and work with complex systems,”  said MacDonald. “We truly value the generosity and investment Waste Management has provided for our students.”

The Honourable Murray Coell, Minister of Advanced Education, said that partnerships like this help promote a stronger economic future in British Columbia. “Malaspina students get the practical career training and exposure they need to move seamlessly from post-secondary education into their careers.”

Malaspina's 10-month Heavy Duty Commercial/Transport Mechanics program covers all aspects of highway-type trucks and buses, bulldozers, loaders, excavators and earthmovers including shop equipment, safety, mechanical reasoning, air and hydraulic brake systems, power transfer systems, gasoline and diesel engine systems, and welding.

The program consists of classroom lectures and plenty of hands-on training. Successful graduates earn an entry-level certification in heavy duty mechanics and commercial transport mechanics, and can choose one of two apprenticeships they would like to pursue. Each year, the program accepts 36 students. Applications are now being accepted for September 2007. To apply, go to www.viu.ca/advising.