Denver–Now part of a 43-campus network that spans 17 states, the students at the Lincoln College of Technology’s Denver campus, formerly known as Denver Automotive Diesel College (DADC), are benefiting from a large-scale educational institution.
“National ownership has increased our level of quality training aids, aided in curriculum development, allowed us newer autos and trucks for practice, and given our instructors more time to teach,” said John Holland, education supervisor at the Denver campus.
“In addition, we have an advisory committee with more than 30 local industry members to make sure we have current teaching aids, and we are teaching what is needed in the industry,” Holland said.
The Denver campus offers programs in automotive and diesel technology, Holland said, adding that programs are typically last nine months to 18 months, depending on student goals. The Denver campus is part of The Lincoln Education Services Corp.
A year and a half of study is required for an Associate’s Degree in Occupational Studies, with both day and evening classes offered, he said. About 60 percent of students enrolled in the diesel program and the remaining in automotive. Shared courses are offered in orientation, management, shop procedures, and ethics, he added.
The school is certified through National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF), an independent, nonprofit organization that evaluates technician training programs against standards developed by the automotive industry and recommends qualifying programs for certification through the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).
“We have a lot of industry support,” Holland said, adding that several companies sponsor classrooms. The list includes: Cummins Rocky Mountain, Stewart & Stevinson, NAPA, Snap-on, and Goodyear.
In addition, the Tire Industry Association (TIA), Eaton Corp., and Bridgestone-Firestone use the Denver campus to conduct training, he said.
“Honnen Equipment Co., Western Truck Parts, Diesels Only, and D&R Head & Casting Service also offer strong support for our program, including interrupting their busy schedules to provide tours of their company for our students,” he said.
“A major reason for our success is the dedication of our staff to the success of these students,” Holland said.
“Our students will be good employees, as we stress being able to take direction, understand service manuals, and to be self-directed,” said Michelle Haughton, heavy-transmissions instructor.
“We want them to be successful outside the classroom and be able to think and find resources on their own,” said Mike Slicker, diesel engines instructor. “In my five-week class, the students are required to take apart and reassemble a diesel engine, and it has to run when they are finished.
“We challenge them continually to figure out what is not working and why, and to think for themselves and use their resources,” Slicker said. “They should all be very familiar with factory service manuals and how to use them. The students know they will start at an entry-level position and work their way up.”
All students are taught job interviewing and job application skills, resume writing, and appropriate dress for an interview in the orientation section of the program, Holland said.
“We want them prepared for applying for employment right away,” he said. “Many of our students need to work and attend school at the same time.”
Student Chelsea Franklin said the opportunity to do so much hands-on training is what she likes best about the school. Franklin, who came to the diesel program all the way from Alaska, said she will soon graduate with her Associate’s Degree.
“It is up to you what you get out of this program,” she said. If you have the drive, you will be successful.”
Fellow automotive student Shean Craig agreed.
“The hands-on is the best part of the training,” Craig said. “I like the way we are challenged to find out what is wrong and why, not just replacement of parts. This school is heavy on teaching diagnostic skills.”
“Job placement is strong here, even with the current economy,” said John Glover, director of career services. “We placed 83 percent of our graduates last year.
“We have a national and local job board that students can access anytime,” Glover said. “It is a lifetime benefit for the students and graduates to access the job opportunities posted.
“We also host job fairs three times a year, where employers can interview several students at once and the students can learn about their companies and the opportunities available, both locally and nationally,” he said.
