Meritor, Inc. (NYSE: MTOR) announced it has donated two axles, a driveline and brakes to Fanshawe College in London, Ontario, Canada for a 1985 Mack Midliner truck now being built by apprentice technicians. The parts have a combined retail value exceeding $18,000, making Meritor the largest donating sponsor of the project.
“As North America continues to face a growing shortage of technicians, it’s critical that the industry focus on developing the next generation of people who are qualified to maintain commercial equipment,” said James Taylor, general manager, Field Sales, North America.
Students enrolled in the college’s truck and coach technician apprenticeship program are donating their own time to build the truck and have it ready in July for sponsored events and races at the Truck Nationals throughout Ontario.
“In addition to learning about fabricating and assembling different parts, building a truck is an opportunity to harness the workmanship of apprentices and channel their creativity so they can showcase their skills,” said Mark Russell, program coordinator. The project started in July 2015. Students have assembled the chassis and the engine and recently mounted the cab, hood and transmission.
“In terms of the truck’s visuals and performance, we’re working toward a neat, nostalgic look and sound,” Russell said. “We’re getting closer to the appearance and sound we’re looking for, and it’ll be exciting to see and hear engine run.”
Students in the truck and coach technician apprenticeship program work at truck repair facilities. Their employers release them for three two-month time blocks at Fanshawe for a combination of workplace-based training combined with classroom and online sessions. Once their apprenticeship is completed, the graduates earn a 310T technician license issued by the Ontario College of Trades. The licensed technicians can work in all Canadian provinces.
