EACC's Diesel Technology program is ranked highest in Arkansas and 15^th nationwide for the number of courses and certifications successfully completed by students through the Get Ahead program. 

Get Ahead is a partnership program between Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA), diesel schools, and DTNA service network locations, offering diesel schools access to industry web-based training.  Students enrolled in EACC's Diesel Technology program gain extra certifications through the Get Ahead training program.    

EACC has been a part of the Get Ahead program since September 2020 through a partnership with TAG Truck Center, and is currently ranked #1 in Arkansas and #15 among all 306 schools participating in the partnership program. 

The Get Ahead program provides 18 dealer level technician online training certifications available to students, and once completed, the certifications do not expire.  The partnership program gives diesel technology students the opportunity to build advanced skills for working on the Daimler manufacturer's specific technologies and equipment.  DTNA has been one of the nation's top employers of diesel and truck technicians for over 80 years.  The Get Ahead program helps maintain a steady pipeline of new professionals for the company's maintenance and plant facilities. 

"These certifications open the door for our students to get jobs with any Freightliner, Detroit Engines, or Western Star dealership in the world," said Bill Mathes, EACC Diesel Technology instructor.  "With these certifications, our graduates will be sought out and pursued because this is the training that these dealers provide to all of their new employees when they start work.  Our diesel tech graduates will have the advantage of already completing their entry-level training," he added. 

"I am extremely proud of Mr. Mathes and our students for their accomplishments.  The industry credentials students are earning through this program are essential in providing them a successful future," said Christine Williams, EACC Dean of Career and Technical Education.  "High demand, high skilled jobs require employees to be well versed in multiple aspects of the diesel service industry, and our students are walking away with an opportunity to earn additional credentials through this program," she added. 

"Partnerships with industry strengthen student skills and provide training that is current and in high demand.  EACC's Diesel Technology program continues to be on the cutting edge of innovation, which leads to success for our students," said Jack Hill, EACC Vice President for Academic Affairs.

EACC offers Get Ahead certifications as an enhancement to the Diesel Technology program's training. Call 870-633-4480, ext. 427 or email bmathes@eacc.edu to learn more information about the diesel technology program.