CLEVELAND, WI – A collaborative effort between Lakeshore Technical College auto collision repair students and the Manitowoc Fire Department resulted in two refurbished pick-up trucks for the department, all while saving taxpayer dollars. The trucks, refinished in fire engine red paint, were unveiled at a recent celebration to mark completion of the project.
Bill Manis, Fire Chief for the City of Manitowoc noted, “We needed the rust and dents taken care of and new paint work done to keep our fleet all looking the same. They were really beaten up.” Chief Manis contacted Jack Charles, Lead Instructor for LTC’s Auto Collision Repair program, to see if the college would be able to schedule repairs.
Charles said the project was great for students as the repairs and painting needs matched up with coursework requirements for LTC program completion. “LTC looks for student training opportunities and the Manitowoc Fire Department needed a cost effective way to update their fleet, so it is a win-win all around as both the college and fire department work to make best use of taxpayer dollars,” according to Charles.
“We had a fun year and good time with Jack, he has lots of experience and is an informative teacher,” said Ben Schultz, a student who worked on the fire truck project, “we had fun doing something for the fire guys, we’re really happy with the outcome of it.”
Kevin Glaeser, Fleet and Parks Manager for the City of Manitowoc Department of Public Works was also on hand to see how the trucks turned out. “After re-alignment of transportation needs of the city, these two heavily used, but serviceable trucks were available, we are happy to see them re-purposed by another Manitowoc department,” explained Glaeser.
“The mechanics were all great,” added Manis, “and so is the result. The trucks turned out perfect.”
About Lakeshore Technical College
Lakeshore Technical College is a leading provider of technical education offering 100 career programs including associate degrees, technical diplomas, technical certificates, and apprenticeship programs. In addition, LTC offers distance learning, customized training to business and industry, and continuing educational opportunities.
Serving a 200,500-resident population in east central Wisconsin, LTC operates a main campus in Cleveland; additional learning sites at LTC Manitowoc and LTC Sheboygan; Community Education Centers at area high schools in Kiel, Mishicot, Plymouth, Random Lake, Reedsville, and Two Rivers; and 27 distance learning sites. LTC’s mission is to enrich lives and strengthen the economy by preparing a workforce that is skilled, diverse and flexible. On average, 79% of LTC graduates work in the LTC District which includes Manitowoc and Sheboygan Counties, and parts of Calumet and Ozaukee Counties. Visit LTC at: gotoltc.edu.
