Murray's Boats and Motors, Dave Wright: "Its a great place to get the basics under your belt." (pictured above, top left)

Bill Marsh Pit Row, Jim McManus: "I got my start at TBA, now I hire the students for co-op positions."

Owner Precision Tune, Dean Jamison: "Learn the basics - they are the same for all engines. TBA Small Engines is where I got my start. Set goals! My goal in high school was to own a repair business and today I do!" (pictured above, top right)

Paul's Repair, Paul North: "Be serious about what you do, too many kids take the class for the wrong reasons, work hard, the program is great."

Ferguson's, Mike Witkowski, Tim Thomas, Jerry Novak: "TBA is where you need to start like we all did. All of us competed in Skills USA VICA and were glad we did! If you're considering a career as a technician, start by taking the Small Engines class at TBA."

Great Escapes Motor Sports, Jason Wagner: "I use the information I learned at TBA every day."

Great Escapes Motor Sports, CJ Carmien: "I can't tell you how many times I remember and use what Mr. Tarr taught at TBA. About 50% of what we do involves repair of the electrical system. Learn as much as you can on electrical."

Great Escapes Motor Sports, Duane Pleva: "You need to be dedicated to doing the job right. Start at TBA - that's great, but you also need to continue your education with post-secondary trade schools and factory service classes."

Tim's Recreational Repair, Randy Adcock: "I've owned my own business and worked for a couple of area dealerships. I enjoyed my experience at TBA. I learned a lot, participated in co-op, and won a medal in Skills USA VICA. I recommend the class for young people looking to break into the business." (pictured above, lower left)

Stricker's Outdoor Power Equipment, Kevin Stricker: "It's a great place to start. I received help in finding jobs and referrals after I graduated. I currently serve as chairman of the program's Advisory Committee."

Grand Bay Marine, Brett Chalker: "TBA was a great class, I learned a lot and thoroughly enjoyed myself. The marine industry has a severe shortage of good technicians."
(pictured with Mr. Tarr, program instructor: above, lower right)

Accreditation
The Small Engines program was recently evaluated by representatives of the Engine Equipment Training Council. Program curriculum, facilities, budget, placement, equipment/tools, training aids, instructor credentials/qualifications, and reference materials were all reviewed. Upon completion of the review, the program was granted accreditation for two- and four-stroke cycle engines - the first such accreditation in the state.

In addition to being featured in trade publications nationally, the program will be publicized by the manufacturers on their dealer network as a resource for trained, technically competent workers. The accreditation and industry support should prove to be priceless in the form of engines/equipment, training materials, and advice to TBACTC students.

Organizations
Briggs & Stratton, Master Servicing Dealer Test Site
OPE (Outdoor Power Equipment Association) Technician Test Site
Skills USA-VICA
ASE

Scholarships
Dave C., St. Francis, $1500 TBA Scholarship
Ryan K., TCC, NMC Presidential Scholarship

Skills USA-VICA
Jeremy P., Glen Lake, Silver Medalist Motorcycle Mechanics
Dave C., St. Francis, Bronze Medal, Air Cooled Engines
Derek C, Glen Lake, Regional President Skills USA VICA

We have participated in VICA for 19 years, earning over 30 top three finishes at the state leve, and five top ten finishes nationally.

Co-op Placements