WHS cuts ribbon for Kubota Diesel Tech Certification program

On Wednesday, the automotive students at Wasilla High School celebrated the newest certification program available as part of the popular automotive program.

The Level One Kubota Diesel Technician certification program is the latest in several technical career certifications that the school offers through a partnership with the National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3).

The NC3 is a network of education providers and corporations that embody passion for innovative CTE models and produce a sustainable, highly-skilled workforce.

There are currently 16 colleges and CTE high schools in the United States offering Kubota Tech programs and 23 Kubota TECH Instructors. Wasilla High School recently received the NC3 START Award for implementing technical and engineering courses in their school, making it the only school offering this certification and courses in Alaska.

“One of the reasons why we really picked this is because we’ve been looking at the need in industry and where we can really get our students jobs.”

Last month, the Auto class got an early introduction and was able to explore the new Kubota equipment. During the open house, students and guests were able to meet the dealer and have lunch, after which there was a tour of the facility before the ribbon was cut and the program enjoyed its official opening.

The Kubota Diesel Technician certification has been attracting the interest of students since it was announced last school year and is the latest program added to a robust CTE program offered throughout the Mat-Su Borough.

Students who enroll in the program can expect to learn about parts assembly, maintenance and the operation of Kubota equipment. The course will span over a semester in length. Students can expect to spend about 80% of their time doing hands-on training in the automotive shop, and 20% in the classroom. There will also be opportunities to visit the Kubota dealership in Anchorage and other shops in the area.

Robert Gold, the Career and Technical Education (CTE) teacher and automotive instructor is also a certified Kubota instructor, has an opportunity to become a Kubota Master Trainer with the implementation of this program. By receiving this certification, Gold would be able to train Kubota Technicians outside of the high school.

“Through these certifications, we’re creating a workforce that’s going to be plugged right into the community and ready to. And more people can grow from it.”