Wayne County hosts diesel skills competition

Jarrett Fleet Services recently hosted the second annual Diesel Technologies Skills Competition for students enrolled in the Wayne County Schools Career Center’s diesel technologies program. The event provided students with a real-world opportunity to demonstrate their technical knowledge and hands-on abilities while preparing for the 2026 SkillsUSA competition.

“Our partnership with Wayne County Schools Career Center continues to grow stronger each year,” said Mike Jarrett, president and CEO of Jarrett. “We’re proud to support student career development by creating opportunities for students to apply their technical training in a real-world environment and gain experience that prepares them for the workforce.”

The Diesel Technologies Skills Competition featured challenges designed to simulate real-world scenarios diesel technicians encounter daily including truck braking systems, engine diagnostics and additional technical evaluations. The competition was a collaboration between Jarrett Fleet Services, Wayne County Schools Career Center, and local industry partners including Centerra, Santmyer Oil, Smetzer’s Tire Center and Superior Diesel/Bell Power Systems.

Award winners include Christian Thomas (first place), Peyton Davis (second), Ashton Tucke (third), Caleb Koch (fourth) and Christian Strickland (fifth).

“Jarrett Fleet Services continues to be an incredible partner to the WCSCC diesel technologies program,” diesel technologies instructor Ben McConahay said. “Providing our students with the opportunity to compete in a real-world setting strengthens their technical skills, builds confidence and better prepares them for the upcoming SkillsUSA State Championship in Columbus. This local competition also shows the students their strengths and what they need to improve for employment in the transportation industry.”

The experience provides a valuable foundation for students pursuing careers in diesel-related fields. The diesel technologies program at Wayne County Schools Career Center equips students with the skills necessary for a variety of career paths including fleet technician, heavy equipment operator and commercial truck driver.

Through the program students also participate in SkillsUSA, a national organization that promotes leadership development, technical excellence and career readiness through competition and community involvement.

To learn more about Jarrett, visit www.gojarrett.com.