Kenworth and WyoTech Launch NextTech Training Program to Address Technician Shortage
August 22, 2025 - 8:11:43 am

Kenworth has teamed up with WyoTech to create the Kenworth NextTech program, a hands-on training initiative designed to combat the ongoing shortage of skilled diesel technicians. The program was officially unveiled during Kenworth Day at WyoTech in Laramie, Wyoming, an event that included a ribbon-cutting ceremony, campus tours, and a meet-and-greet with students and dealer representatives.

The U.S. diesel technician shortage is a significant issue, with the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) reporting over 40,000 annual job openings and fewer than 11,000 graduates from training programs each year. Through this collaboration, Kenworth and WyoTech aim to cultivate a more robust and skilled workforce of Kenworth-certified technicians.

"The Kenworth NextTech program will create a strong pipeline of trained technicians with hands-on experience on Kenworth's advanced trucks and powertrains," says Kevin Haygood, Kenworth's Assistant General Manager for Sales and Marketing. "Our partnership with WyoTech will be crucial in building a sustainable workforce for our dealers and ensuring our customers receive exceptional service."

Program Benefits for Students

Available to all enrolled WyoTech students, the Kenworth NextTech program provides access to the same training and proprietary service tools used by Kenworth dealership technicians nationwide. The program offers students:

• Free access to the Kenworth Essentials dealer technician training modules, which are mandatory for all new Kenworth dealership hires.
• Enrollment in instructor-led certification courses covering Kenworth Service Systems, Kenworth Electrical Systems, and Kenworth Diagnostics.
• Hands-on experience with Kenworth trucks equipped with PACCAR MX engines and powertrains.
• Access to PACCAR MX engines and specialized tool kits.
• Utilization of Kenworth's DAVIE4 diagnostic service tools and software.
• Support from a dedicated Kenworth program manager at WyoTech.

"This collaboration embodies what WyoTech is all about: industry-focused training, real-world readiness, and creating strong career pathways," states Kyle Morris, WyoTech's Campus President. "Securing this partnership with Kenworth is a key step in providing our students with direct access to the technologies and training the industry demands today. It's about more than just equipment; it's about ensuring our graduates are the top choice for employers from day one."