OSU Institute of Technology recently hosted the Komatsu Trainers Alliance on the Okmulgee campus. The event brought together industry leaders, educators, and technicians to highlight the crucial role of partnering industry with education.

Throughout the three-day conference, participants exchanged knowledge, enhanced their skills and engaged in collaborative discussions to advance the heavy equipment industry. 

OSUIT actively partners with Komatsu to recruit students to the Associate in Applied Science in Komatsu ACT program and the newer Komatsu Fast Track program. These educational options, offered in partnership with OSUIT, help strengthen Komatsu and its dealer network, enabling it to better serve customers.

Terryl Lindsey, dean of the School of Transportation & Heavy Equipment, emphasized the impact of industry collaboration. 

“Komatsu has been an integral part of OSUIT for many years. Our program(s) would not flourish without industry support,” said Lindsey. “The receipt of equipment, components and financial support is crucial to ensure the next generation of technicians are ready for the next generation of technology.”

The attendees were able to see the Komatsu programs in action as well as hear from OSUIT representatives.

Speakers included Chris Benge, OSUIT vice president of Operations; Darren Shrum, the ‘first cowboy’ of the OSU system; Lindsay Lynch, OSUIT director of Marketing and communications; and Jake Murphy, OSUIT director of Prospective Student Services. Each delivered valuable, insightful presentations centered on the value of industry and educational partnerships in training and hiring the next generation of skilled technicians.

“We’re proud to have hosted the Komatsu Trainers Alliance on our campus,” said Lynch. “As the undisputed leader in polytechnic education in Oklahoma, this reaffirms the pivotal role of OSUIT in driving innovation and excellence within the heavy equipment industry.”

For more information about OSUIT and its programs, visit www.osuit.edu.