From Dallas Express · Dallas Express · · 1m 20s
Dallas students learn bus repair alongside DART mechanics
Fourteen high school seniors are getting hands-on diesel maintenance training through a new partnership with the city's transit agency.
In brief
Fourteen high school seniors are getting hands-on diesel maintenance training through a new partnership with the city's transit agency. A new Dallas ISD and DART partnership gives 14 high school seniors hands-on bus maintenance training and a pathway to careers starting at $33 per hour. Originally reported by Dallas…
New bus maintenance externship launches
Fourteen Dallas ISD seniors will spend the semester learning bus maintenance alongside DART mechanics. It's the first program of its kind in the district.
Students paired with professional technicians
The 14 seniors train alongside DART bus maintenance technicians. They learn vehicle inspections, engine fundamentals, and climate system maintenance.
Addressing the diesel mechanic shortage
DART says the partnership helps address a shortage of diesel maintenance mechanics while expanding career opportunities for students.
“DART recognizes just how important it is to support education in the region, and to cultivate the next generation of diesel maintenance mechanics.”
Real world problem solving
Dallas ISD's deputy chief says students grow most when solving real problems. The partnership creates immediate impact in high-demand career pathways.
“Our students grow the most when they're in the real world solving real problems.”
Preparing future transit leaders
DART's chairman calls it an investment in people who could eventually lead the agency. The program prepares both DART and its future workforce.
“Are we simply preparing DART for the future, or are we preparing the people who will lead DART into the future?”
A career, not just a job
One student told administrators he's getting a career, not just a job. He learned from technicians that starting pay is $33 an hour.
“You know, Mr. Jones, I'm not gonna get a job out of this. I'm gonna get a career.”
What to remember
A new Dallas ISD and DART partnership gives 14 high school seniors hands-on bus maintenance training and a pathway to careers starting at $33 per hour.
