Midland College hosted the Warren CAT Internship program signing day on May 22, recognizing three high school seniors who earned certificates and will now intern at Warren CAT. Announced in a Midland College Facebook post, the partnership aims to provide students with practical experience and financial assistance as they advance in their careers.
According to the post, Felix Camplos, Royce Knight, and Fidel Gardea are recent graduates from Midland Independent School District (MISD) who have completed their Level 1 certificate in Diesel Technology through the MC/MISD dual credit academies. The students will also be continuing their education at Midland College, with a focus on heavy equipment.
Each intern will receive $16,100 in support from Warren CAT, which includes $9,600 for tuition, as well as tools and toolboxes necessary for their work and education, according to the post.
According to Midland College Department Chair and Associate Professor of automation, automotive technology, diesel technology, natural gas compression, and petroleum energy technology Erik Gutierrez, these courses have prepared students to pursue their associate of applied science in diesel technology with a heavy equipment specialization and begin working under lead technicians in the engine rebuild shop through the internship.
An associate of applied science for diesel technology prepares students for entry-level employment as a certified diesel mechanic who can diagnose, repair, and maintain diesel engines. According to the Midland College website, the program is accredited by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF), and the curriculum is designed to prepare students for completion of the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) national certification.
To learn more about the Diesel Technology program at Midland College, visit their website.