Thursday, March 21, 2024
Photos by Cindy D. Meixel, writer/editor-Penn College News
A Komatsu PC 290LC-11 excavator, loaned by Anderson Equipment Co. to Pennsylvania College of Technology, is moved into place for a training session at the college’s Schneebeli Earth Science Center. At left is alumnus Garrett M. Langham, a technical communicator/trainer with Anderson Equipment, and in the cab is heavy construction equipment technology student Bryan J. Sames, of New Kensington.
Anderson Equipment Co.’s 24-week loan of a Komatsu excavator to Pennsylvania College of Technology will be greatly advantageous to students in 10 diesel and heavy construction equipment courses – from powertrain and hydraulics to brakes and electronics.
Anderson Equipment, a Corporate Tomorrow Maker that has supported Penn College students for about 25 years (including a similar equipment loan last spring), provided a Komatsu PC 290LC-11 excavator through an ongoing entrustment agreement that enhances instruction in a variety of specialties at the Schneebeli Earth Science Center.
“The addition of this excavator to our labs opens up a multitude of opportunities for enriching our students’ education,” said Chris S. Weaver, assistant professor of diesel equipment technology. “It offers them practical skills, industry exposure, and a broader perspective on heavy equipment repair, operation, and related fields.”
Highlighting Anderson’s expertise and equipment can help students understand the technology, and potentially influence their decisions when they enter purchasing positions in industry, he added.
“Donating the excavator presents a great opportunity for the donor to gain exposure and potentially create a positive brand association among students and faculty,” Weaver said. “Through this loan, Anderson Equipment not only supports education, but also gains visibility and the chance to establish a positive reputation among future industry professionals.”
During one of several training sessions offered by Anderson Equipment Co. to heavy construction equipment technology students, alumnus Garrett M. Langham (in white hard hat) works in tandem with student Bryan J. Sames (in cab), on testing the track cycle time of this Komatsu PC 290LC-11 excavator, loaned to the college by Anderson Equipment. Langham is a technical communicator/trainer with the company.
Anderson Equipment has brought considerable value to the college’s program over the years through such collaborative initiatives as Career Fairs and other networking events, internships, guest lectures, vocational guidance, and service on the Heavy Construction Equipment (Technician Emphasis) Advisory Committee.
By engaging in those ways, Anderson Equipment has established a lasting and impactful relationship with the program and its students, Weaver said, contributing to their education and future careers in the heavy equipment industry.
“Anderson Equipment values the education of Penn College and the skills that graduates have entering the workforce,” said Ed Wallace, academic recruiting manager. “We are glad to be part of making an impact on these students, while showcasing the Komatsu and Anderson name.”
The company is recognized as a member of the Visionary Society on the college’s Donor Wall ($100,000 to $499,999).
“We appreciate the continued partnership with Anderson Equipment and how the company has continued to bring state-of-the-art technology to our students,” said Elizabeth A. Biddle, senior corporate relations director. “Having access to this equipment strengthens our students’ skills and makes them stronger assets to their employers.”
For more about Penn College’s diesel equipment technology and heavy construction equipment technology majors, visit the School of Engineering Technologies site or call 570-327-4520.
For more about Penn College, a national leader in applied technology education, email the Admissions Office or call toll-free 800-367-9222.
Also during the training sessions, held the week of March 18, David Ross, a trainer with Komatsu East, shares technical information with students in the Industry Room at the Earth Science Center.
Ross continues his training on the Komatsu PC 290LC-11 in the lab with Liam C. Grant (seated), a heavy construction equipment technology student from Telford.
Langham has worked for Anderson Equipment for about 10 years. He earned two Penn College associate degrees in heavy construction equipment technology (operator emphasis in 2014 and technician emphasis in 2016).
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