Wednesday, Dec. 07, 2011

Wake Tech receives gift

A hefty donation rolled into Wake Technical Community College last week.

Waste Industries USA donated a $115,000 heavy-duty, commercial front-end loader to Wake Tech's Heavy Equipment and Transport Technology Program. The 2007 Condor, equipped with a Cummins engine, will provide an opportunity for hands-on training for students.

Waste Industries Chief Executive Harry Habets handed over the keys in a special ceremony.

"Our five-year partnership with Wake Tech has proven to be a positive force in the community-college system - especially for the students," Habets said. "For 41 years, Waste Industries has supported the communities in which we operate, and we are proud to co-sponsor an educational program designed to enhance the technical competence and professional level of the participating students."

As a supporter of Wake Tech, Waste Industries provides financial support through scholarships, training as an employer-partner and long-term employment opportunities for program graduates. Waste Industries is a member of the Heavy Equipment and Transport Technology Advisory Committee, which helps keep the program relevant and up to date. In addition, Waste Industries' founder and board chairman, Jim Perry, currently is chair of the Wake Tech Board of Trustees.

"Waste Industries' generous donation strengthens our program, enhancing learning for our students and having a ripple effect throughout the community by helping to prepare skilled and competent workers," said Dr. Stephen Scott, Wake Tech president.

"Community partnerships are vital to Wake Tech's mission of providing quality education and training, and we're very proud to have the support of such an important industry leader."

The truck, made by American LaFrance, is equipped with a Heil Classic commercial, front-loading refuse body, which is heavy-duty. It features an Allison transmission and Telma driveline retarder, a rear camera system and strobe lights for added safety.

This high-tech educational tool will supplement classroom lectures and offer laboratory experiences on industry-current equipment such as electronic engines and complicated hydraulic systems.