OPEI News: Future Technicians Get Wired at EXPO

Ten up-and-coming service technicians tested their electrical wizardry this year at the International Lawn, Garden & Power Equipment EXPO in Louisville, Ky. Armed with a mess of wires, a wiring diagram, test meters and a panel representative of a tractor, the students skillfully turned the tangle into working connections.

The Engine Equipment Training Council (EETC) booth was an outburst of bright lights and music, attracting attendees to bleacher seats to watch the contestants, all finalists from the June 27 SkillsUSA National Championship in Kansas City, Mo. The students each were sponsored by an EETC member company, including Ariens, Briggs & Stratton, Honda, Hydro-Gear, Kubota, Kohler, Tecumseh and Toro.

Besides demonstrating their electrical knowledge, students also rebuilt engines from a short block and answered question in a Jeopardy-like round robin.

The author is Managing Editor – Special Projects for Lawn & Landscape magazine and can be reached at khampshire@lawnandlandscape.com.