Sterling, Colo. – Northeastern Junior College’s Applied Technology Campus (NJC) recently hosted a training seminar for Northeast Colorado high school agriculture teachers focused on engine fundamentals on Monday, June 19 and Tuesday, June 27, 2023.
NJC Automotive and Diesel Instructors, Layton Peterman and Jason Rohm provided an interactive learning experience with hands-on activities to reinforce the fundamental engine concepts. Each participant was given a set of diagnostic tools for their classroom to help them teach engine basics to their students.
The goal of this program was to provide additional knowledge and resources that can be used in teaching high school students about rebuilding engines from complete tear down to reassembly for ag mechanics classes. The training covered topics such as engine theory, parts identification, principles of operation, and small engine rebuilding.
Throughout the day, instructors provided demonstrations and guidance so that participants could gain insight into proper techniques and safety considerations for working with small engines. In addition, the attendees had the chance to apply their skills by working on a small engine rebuild project.
The training and the diagnostic tool kits were funded by the Perkins Grant, further advancing NJC’s commitment to Career and Technical Education.
Vice President of Academic Affairs, Sam Soliman said, “This training epitomizes the intersectional missions of career and technical education, community colleges, and secondary and post-secondary collaboration. Opportunities like this arose from NJC having open communications with secondary educators, regional farmers and ranchers, employers, and other community stakeholders. More opportunities, like this training, will emerge in the near future. Last month, regional high school teachers and administrators met with us to discuss new ways we can support each other to equip high school students with career-ready skills propelling them to success whether they immediately enter the workforce or go on to college.”
One of the seven participants in the course, Leigha Henry, a high school agriculture instructor at Genoa Hugo, and 2017 NJC Alumni praised the training stating, “Getting into engine trades especially as a female can be really intimidating, and I was really nervous coming into this class. However, having Mr. Peterman and Mr. Rohm as the instructors has been the most comforting thing. I never thought I would ever have any understanding of basic engine practices, but these instructors make learning easy and comfortable and I think that is so important for ladies in STEM and in the trades. I couldn’t be more thankful for the class, it’s been incredible.”
NJC is proud to support fellow educators in providing quality instruction about small engine repair and maintenance to their students and plans on hosting more trainings like this one in the future.