Diesel Students Afforded Instructive Look at Hybrid Coca-Cola Truck

Diesel majors in Pennsylvania College of Technology's School of Natural Resources Management recently were given a close-up look at a hybrid vehicle, courtesy of the Coca-Cola Co. and an alumnus of the college's predecessor institution.

A Coca-Cola 2008 International 4300 series truck equipped with a hybrid-electric and automated drivetrain system was brought to the college's Schneebeli Earth Science Center from the Bronx, N.Y., during a March 11 Career Fair and remained at the Allenwood area campus for the rest of that week.

The visit was arranged by Brett A. Reasner, assistant dean of natural resources management, and James D. Onufrak, fleet supervisor for Coca-Cola and a 1982 diesel mechanics graduate of Williamsport Area Community College.

"Coca Cola's generous loan of this vehicle has allowed our students and faculty the opportunity to interact with the industry's cutting-edge technology," Reasner said. "It also highlights Coke's commitment to being good stewards of the environment." After two years of testing hybrid vehicles in its bottling enterprise, Coca-Cola reported in 2006 that it experienced a marked reduction in emissions and a 32-percent improvement in fuel economy.

Access to the truck provided diesel students with an up-to-the-minute look at the industry into which they'll graduate, and Coca-Cola has expressed an interest in contributing to the college's diesel curriculum in the near future.

The School of Natural Resources Management offers associate degrees in diesel technology and diesel technology: Mack emphasis, as well as a certificate in diesel technician.

For more information about the school, visit online or call (570) 320-8038. For general information about Penn College, visit online, e-mail or call toll-free (800) 367-9222.