Automotive graduate receives Distinguished Alumni Award

Pennsylvania College of Technology presented James Riedel with a Distinguished Alumni Award at its Fall 2023 Commencement ceremonies, held Dec. 16 at the Community Arts Center.

Riedel earned a Bachelor of Science in automotive technology management in 2007 and an Associate of Applied Science in automotive technology in 2006. He is the national product training manager for Subaru of America Inc., where he has worked for nearly 16 years.

The Distinguished Alumni Award is presented to those who have made significant contributions in their chosen fields, demonstrated the importance of their education at Penn College or its predecessors, participated in leadership roles within the community and demonstrated a commitment to their alma mater.

Riedel began employment with Subaru of America in 2008, holding positions as service management associate, field service training manager, national technical training development manager and regional product training manager before moving into his current role in 2018.

Among his credentials, he earned Subaru Senior Master Technician from Subaru of America and Authorized Technical Trainer from Subaru Corp. Global. He holds several National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence certifications, including Senior Master Diagnostic Technician L1, L3, G1 and A1-A8.

During his years as a Penn College student, Riedel was an active campus leader, serving in a range of roles, including president of the Student Government Association, through which he launched the Student Leader Legacy Scholarship, awarded for the first time in 2007.

He also served as a chair of the Student-Staff Judicial Council, an ambassador to the School of Transportation Technology, an orientation leader, a student representative to the College Town Initiative, a member of the College Council Governance Committee and was a College Leadership Advancement Series graduate.

Riedel continues to support his alma mater through its Wildcat Alumni Career Mentor Program and Tomorrow Makers Program.

Originally from Quogue, New York, Riedel resides in Westville, New Jersey, with his wife and son. Through Subaru, he volunteers in his community.

For more about alumni activities at Penn College, visit the Alumni webpage.

For more about the college, a national leader in applied technology education, email the Admissions Office or call toll-free 800-367-9222.