Eric Jackson: Keeping the Fleet Moving Head Mechanic |Wa-Nee Community Schools, Indiana
W
hen Wa-Nee Community Schools brought fleet maintenance in-house, Eric Jackson became the district’s first mechanic. More than a decade
later, he remains the backbone of the opera- tion, maintaining a fleet of 56 school buses and four district vehicles while continuing to build on the maintenance program he established. Jackson entered pupil transportation 15
years ago after learning about an opening through his mother-in-law, who worked for the local school district. With 12 years of heavy- truck experience already under his belt, he said the transition felt like a natural fit. Today, Jackson remains the districts only full-time mechanic, working alongside a part-time helper and a fleet manager. His responsibilities range from routine preven- tive maintenance to major repairs involving engines, brakes and aftertreatment systems. Whenever possible, he completes repairs in- house to reduce downtime and keep vehicles on the road. According to his nomination, the district’s fleet is in better condition today than in previous years when maintenance was handled by a third-party provider with multi- ple mechanics. Jackson’s efforts have helped establish a preventive maintenance program that keeps vehicles safe, reliable and ready for service. For Jackson, one of the most rewarding parts of the job is seeing a problem solved quickly. “The best part of my job is resolving bus issues and the driver being surprised to have their bus back the same day,” he said. Wa-Nee’s fleet includes 29 propane-
powered school buses, which require specialized training but offer maintenance advantages compared to some traditional fuel systems. Jackson’s experience with diesel, gasoline and propane engines has helped the district successfully manage a diverse fleet. The transportation department also benefits
from a modern maintenance facility that opened over two years ago. Large service
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bays and column bus lifts have improved efficiency and made repairs easier to complete. Technology plays an important role as well. Jackson uses diagnostic scan tools to communicate with vehicle computers and identify issues more quickly, helping him troubleshoot and complete repairs efficiently. Although he holds a Mobile Air Climate Systems Association (MACS) certification for air-conditioning systems, Jackson said he believes learning never stops in the transportation industry. “Never think you’re done learning and
always do the very best work you can,” he advised newcomers. After hours, Jackson enjoys landscaping his
property and spending time in his home shop working on old cars and tractors.
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