Apprentice diesel technician Tim Beckman of Lakeside International Trucks won first place in this year’s competition. Tim has been working at Lakeside since graduating high school and is currently attending Madison Area Technical College, with plans to earn his degree in Diesel Power. Tim competed against 21 other secondary-school competitors and will be representing the state of Wisconsin, Lakeside International Trucks, and Navistar in Atlanta, Georgia, in June at the National SkillsUSA competition.
More than 25 industry suppliers and dealership professionals from across the state support the annual event. Lakeside International Trucks has been involved in supporting SkillsUSA for more than 15 years.
As an International dealer, Lakeside represents the International® product line for the state and hosts the brake competition station. Jeff Taylor, Lakeside Service Manager, says of the show, “Each year it makes me proud to see these bright, aspiring kids come through the competition. They work so hard to show off what they know as they compete for the title of best in state and trade.”
Rob Durham, Lakeside HR, and Marketing Vice President and former Wisconsin SkillsUSA Diesel Competition Chair, says, “As a company, Lakeside is committed to the industry and is always looking for ways to encourage young talent to consider a career as a diesel technician. Not anyone can do this job because it’s hard work. It requires not only skill but a high level of intelligence and keen problem-solving skills. Lakeside works alongside industry suppliers and competitors over these two days of competition to promote and support the future of our industry. These are great kids who are dedicated to developing their skills. If you’ve never seen this competition, I suggest you find one in your state and support it any way you can. These kids love what they do, and our support means a lot to them.”
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