Takeuchi-US and United Rentals Support Diesel Training at WyoTech
Takeuchi-US, working with United Rentals, has donated the use of five Takeuchi machines to the diesel technology program at WyoTech in Laramie, Wyoming. These tech programs are important, so cool move noted Takeuchi and United Rentals. The equipment will support hands-on instruction for students preparing for diesel and heavy equipment service careers. The construction and rental industries continue to face technician shortages. An industry report from Associated Equipment Distributors projects the need to fill up to 73,500 heavy equipment technician roles over the next five years. That’s a lot, confirmed by many dealerships reporting job opening rates above national averages. From the press release:
“Training the next generation of technicians is critical for the rental industry,” said Keith Pearson, skilled trades program manager for United Rentals. “Well-trained technicians keep equipment rental-ready, reduce downtime and improve safety on jobsites. Partnering with a respected manufacturer like Takeuchi and a trade school like WyoTech helps ensure students develop the skills our industry depends on.”
Machines Added to the Curriculum
The donation includes three Takeuchi TL8R2 compact track loaders and two TB216 compact excavators. Students will use these machines during diesel and heavy equipment training. The donated units allow students to work with modern hydraulics, electronics and diagnostics. Training covers preventive maintenance, fault-code troubleshooting, engine performance testing, CAN-bus diagnostics and OEM service procedures. This method mirrors life in the field.
“By working with current-generation Takeuchi equipment, students gain hands-on experience with the same technology used on today’s job sites,” said Derek Koontz, national account manager for Takeuchi. “Rotating the machines allows students to work on different models and applications, helping them build confidence and diagnostic skills that translate directly to real-world service and repair environments.”
Preparing Students for Compact Equipment Work
WyoTech’s training model centers on shop time and employer-aligned coursework. Access to compact track loaders and mini excavators keeps instruction firmly focused in the small earthmoving equipment realm. We have to expect graduates are gaining experience on equipment they are likely to encounter after placement, so we’re talking compact equipment techs here. That’s pretty cool. The partnership also connects manufacturers, rental companies and educators around the same shared workforce goals. We’re all in this together.
“Our success comes from keeping students in the shop, learning by doing, with a curriculum shaped directly by employer needs,” said Cindy Barlow, director of industry relations for WyoTech. “Having access to brand-new Takeuchi compact track loaders and excavators allows students to train on modern hydraulics, electronics, diagnostics and service procedures, not outdated technology. That experience prepares them to step into technician roles from day one.”
Keith Gribbins is publisher of Compact Equipment.
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