Quality technicians are in high demand around the country, the Outdoor Power Equipment course at the Greater Altoona Career and Technology Center is an industry-recognized training site certified by the Equipment and Engine Training Council (EETC). 

Students entering the program will receive instruction in the following maintenance areas: Four-stroke cycle and two-stroke cycle engine design, fuel systems, ignition systems, cooling systems, lubrication systems, governor systems, drive systems, troubleshooting techniques, and overhaul procedures. Students will also receive instruction in parts identification, inventory control procedures, and business operations. 

Students will be given the opportunity to take industry-certified testing from OPESSA, EETC, Kohler, Tecumseh, and Briggs & Stratton. Manufacturers are now requiring a certified technician on staff in order for a dealership to retain its license.

The students work on the following types of equipment: weed trimmers, chainsaws, lawn mowers, lawn tractors, snow blowers, generators, rototillers, cement mixers, and pressure washers. Recreational equipment is also included in the outdoor power equipment field and students have the opportunity to service motorcycles, ATVs and outboard engines.

Upon graduation, there are many post-secondary educational opportunities for those who choose to further their education. Some of the institutions students may attend are Universal Technical Institute, Penn State University and York Technical Institute.

In an ever expanding market, there is a high demand for qualified technicians, sales people, dealership owners, and distributors who are able to provide customers with products and services in a timely manner. The compensation paid for these services is as much as $65 per hour. 

Local employers who have hired graduates include: Maple Mountain Equipment, Seltzer Honda, Blair Auto Service, F.L. Smith, Norfolk Southern Railroad, Scotch Valley Country Club, Sinking Valley Country Club, Keystone Kawasaki, The Small Engine Shop, and Hines Equipment.

Occupational Profile: For information on this occupation’s description, required knowledge, job tasks and related job titles, state and national wages, and employment trends, visit the U.S. Dept. of Labor’s site for this career field at:      http://online.onetcenter.org/link/summary/49-3092.00