TravelCenters of America (TA) has registered its longstanding diesel technician apprenticeship program with the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL).

“One of the benefits … is to help TA gain national and industry recognition for our commitment to technician training,” TA Lead Recruiter Chad Estle said.

Having a DOL-registered apprenticeship program should attract more veterans, Estle added. TA also is pursuing a benefit that would allow veterans to tap into their G.I. Bill aid for cost-of-living expenses while enrolled.

The program offers guided, hands-on experience, teaching trainees to maintain and repair technologically advanced heavy-duty vehicles. Participants work full time at a TA truck service facility while completing their training, which can span from 12 months to 36 months, depending on the technician’s skill level.

The tech receives recognition by the DOL as a Journeyman Diesel Technician upon successful completion of the training.

TA developed the program in partnership with FASTPORT Inc., the DOL industry intermediary for the transportation and logistics sector.

“The apprenticeship program provides a tangible starting point for men and women seeking a new career, members of the military looking for a second career, or for current technicians wishing to advance their skills,” Skip McGary, TA’s executive vice president, said.