Training opportunities: Trucks and houses

Daimler Trucks North America donated a $125,000 Freightliner Cascadia truck to train diesel service students at Portland Community College. The Oregonian reports that the rig will be used to teach students repair and maintenance techniques using the latest technology. The truck was designed for fuel efficiency, and uses advanced electronics that are becoming more common.


A second article from The Oregonian details $1 million in stimulus funds granted to Oregon for workforce training in home weatherization. Oregon Energy Coordinators, a Salem nonprofit, will handle the training. The organization has been teaching weatherization courses for eight years, and offers training at various locations throughout the state. Courses are available for people who will be doing weatherization, and those who are interested in assessing and auditing the energy efficiency of homes.

The state's goal is to make 5,000 homes more energy efficient. According to a statement from Governor Ted Kulongoski, the state will need 500 new workers to meet this goal.