For those considering a career in fleet main- tenance, Pendergraph said, “I would emphasize that this profession allows you to make a signifi- cant impact. You witness the fruits of your labor over the years, contributing to the development and safety of the next generation, which is both rewarding and fulfilling.” Outside of work, Pendergraph said he
treasures time with his wife, children and grandchildren, and enjoys reading. “Life is too short not to spend it with loved ones or engaging in passions,” he concluded.
John Warming: Willingness to Learn Mechanic/Technician
School Administrative District 06 — Bonny Eagle, Maine
John Warming works on a fleet of around 60 school buses, focusing on service to diagnostics to assisting drivers with additional school bus knowledge. He holds nine cer- tifications including several from Blue Bird and ROUSH CleanTech, as well as a S.A.F.E. Lift 2 – Forklift Trainer, CPR certification and behavioral safety training. The certifications from Blue Bird and ROUSH are especially important, as over the past 10 years MSAD6 has transitioned to primarily propane school buses. With 85 percent
propane, Warming said the transition “brought about the need for additional understanding of not only the fuel but the maintenance. We have certainly seen less emission issues and have worked through the understanding of the electric portion of the fueling system.” As new buses enter the fleet, Warming said the garage is able to keep
up the diagnostic tools and programs needed to maintain the fleet in house. MSAD6 recently installed an 18,000-gallon propane filling station. “We are able to embrace the latest technology by giving our mechanics and technicians the ability to take additional training and attend indus- try related conferences to continue to network and have the connections needed,” he said. Warming is on his third year in pupil transportation after being rec-
ommended for the position by a co-worker. He said his favorite part of the job is the diagnostic process, noting that he likes to problem solve and continue to further his knowledge. While MSAD6 does a great job maintaining their fleet with two technicians and a lead foreman, Warming said the department could use one more technician. To newcomers entering the industry, he advises them to take every
opportunity to learn something, leaning on training and networking opportunities. Outside of work, he enjoys playing disc golf and spend- ing time with his wife and two children.
www.stnonline.com 39
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52