Jacob Binder, a senior Diesel Technology student from Boyertown, has been immersed in the world of trucks since elementary school. Inspired by his father, a truck driver, he began helping with repairs at a young age. “When he had to do repairs, I would help him. That gave me a good base, but I applied to BCTC to get more knowledge,” Jacob shared.
His experience at BCTC has exceeded his expectations. “It was different than I was expecting. I learned a lot more than I thought I was going to. I got a base of everything and very in-depth with the engines,” Jacob said. The hands-on technical skills gained at BCTC have made his co-op work at CMA Enterprises, Diesel Truck and Trailer Repair easier and more efficient. “Tech has helped me at work. I know how everything goes together and it made the repairs go easier,” he explained.
Jacob has been part of CMA’s team for three summers, learning to navigate both shop work and on-site repairs. “We have a service truck and sometimes we go out to work on a truck, but most times we work in the shop,” he said. Challenges arise, but he credits his co-workers and supervisor for their guidance. “I ask questions when I need help, and everyone there is very helpful.”
Looking ahead, Jacob hopes to work in a semi-truck dealership to gain additional training and experience with larger trucks. “I enjoy working on the bigger semi-trucks,” he noted.
To younger students considering Career and Technical Education, Jacob offers this advice: “Don’t be scared to apply to BCTC. It doesn’t hurt to try something new. If you don’t like it, you can always change.”