The Brief
- TLG Peterbilt donated a 579 EV truck to Pittsburg State University’s automotive lab to enhance hands-on learning opportunities
- The electric truck will serve multiple classes including air conditioning, highway truck maintenance, and electric vehicle programs
- Students will be able to disassemble and rebuild the truck as part of their educational experience
PITTSBURG, Kan. (KOAM) — Pittsburg State University’s automotive program received a significant boost with the donation of a brand new electric Peterbilt truck, expanding educational opportunities as the transportation industry shifts toward electric vehicles.
TLG Peterbilt donated the 579 EV truck to the university’s automotive lab, providing students with hands-on experience working with cutting-edge electric vehicle technology. The donation addresses the growing demand for technicians trained in electric commercial vehicles as the industry undergoes a major transformation.
“It allows us to cross over to several different classes,” said Tim Dell, PSU Diesel & Heavy Equipment Coordinator. “So our air conditioning classes can learn about the thermal management side of it. Or our on highway truck class can learn about the on highway truck side of things. Our EV classes are electric vehicle classes can learn about the electric side of the truck as well.”
The truck will serve as more than just a demonstration vehicle. Students will have the opportunity to completely disassemble and rebuild the electric truck, providing comprehensive understanding of its systems and components.
“They’re all about tearing stuff down to nothing and rebuild them. They can absolutely do that with this truck,” said Jeff Venning, director of new truck sales for TLG Peterbilt. “And, you know, we’re here to support the university with our service and parts background at TLG.”
Venning brings a personal connection to the donation, having graduated from Pittsburg State’s automotive program 20 years ago. He noted the dramatic changes in the industry since his time as a student.
“We were just starting to see the pre as we were just starting to see EVs and hybrids and they really weren’t out there in the commercial truck market,” Venning said. “So for us to be at the leading edge of this EV revolution that we’re going through right now and have that opportunity to have this truck here.”
The donation comes as electric vehicles create new career opportunities in the automotive field. The shift toward electric commercial vehicles is opening additional pathways for students entering the workforce.
“There’s just more opportunities to continue to learn about the vehicles,” said Randy Jones, PSU Program Manager Automotive Tech. “The diesel heavy equipment is here to stay. It’s just, again, continue to grow over the years.”
The partnership between TLG Peterbilt and Pittsburg State University demonstrates the importance of industry collaboration in education. By providing access to current technology, the donation ensures students graduate with relevant skills that match employer needs.
The 579 EV truck will allow students to gain experience with electric powertrains, battery systems, charging infrastructure, and the unique maintenance requirements of electric commercial vehicles. This hands-on training will prepare graduates for careers in a rapidly changing automotive landscape.
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