For Conrad Weiser senior John Tharp, his journey into diesel technology started with a simple interest in working with his hands—and a few lawn mowers. 

Now in his third year in BCTC’s Diesel Technology program, John knew he wanted to spend his time learning skills that would prepare him for a career he could enjoy. “I looked at BCTC and thought, that’s where I want to invest my time in and it is something that I like,” he explained. 

His interest in diesel technology came naturally. Growing up around diesel trucks, John was always fascinated by the machines. His hands-on experience began with smaller engines, working on lawn mowers before eventually moving on to increasingly larger equipment. 

That progression took another step forward this summer when John began a co-op experience at Reading Regional Airport. His BCTC instructor recognized that he was ready for the responsibility of a real-world job, in part because John had worked ahead in the program and demonstrated that he could work independently and at his own pace. 

At the airport, John has had the opportunity to work on a wide variety of equipment, including snowblowers, snowplows, utility trucks and lawn mowers. The experience has allowed him to apply his BCTC training to equipment of many different sizes and types. 

One of his next challenges will be helping replace a timing chain on one of the airport’s utility trucks. While he has not worked on a timing chain at BCTC yet, he is looking forward to learning alongside the airport’s head mechanic. A timing chain keeps the engine’s components operating in proper sequence, making sure everything happens at the right time. 

For John, the combination of classroom instruction, hands-on shop experience and co-op training has been a valuable part of his BCTC experience.  “They really touch on everything,” he said. “They teach you everything here.” 

That well-rounded preparation is helping John look ahead to his future. After graduation, he hopes to work on semi-trailer trucks, drawn to space and accessibility of diesel equipment compared with the more compact design of many automotive vehicles. 

He will continue his co-op at Reading Regional Airport during the school year, working approximately four days a week. The opportunity gives him something many students dream about: the chance to continue learning while getting paid to gain real-world experience. 

John encourages younger students who are considering BCTC to explore their options and find something they genuinely enjoy. “Do your research, find something that you enjoy doing,” he said. “You won’t have to work a day in your life if you love what you’re doing.” 

For John, that passion started with a few small engines and has grown into a future working with some of the biggest ones.