A group that trains technicians, fleet managers, law enforcement and first responders on how to handle today’s vehicles fueled by biodiesel, ethanol, hydrogen, propane and other renewables has added another college to its list of training sites.
BlueRidgeNow.com reports that Blue Ridge Community College in Weyers Cave, Virginia is the latest member of the National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium (NAFTC), the only nationwide alternative fuel vehicle and advanced technology vehicle training organization in the U.S.:
“Alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicles, such as those powered by biodiesel, ethanol, natural gas, hydrogen, propane, fuel-cell, and hybrid electric systems, are a means for improving air quality and breaking America’s addiction to foreign oil,” said Al Ebron, NAFTC executive director. “NAFTC National Training Centers help promote the adoption of alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicles through a variety of automotive training programs for technicians, fleet managers, public safety and first responder organizations and the public.”
The NAFTC is also the originator and event headquarters of National Alternative Fuel Vehicle Day Odyssey. This biennial event was first held in 2002, again in 2004 and 2006, and most recently on Oct. 3, 2008. Odyssey is the largest nationwide alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicle awareness event.
“Our faculty and staff have worked diligently to bring this leading automotive training to Blue Ridge Community College,” said Blue Ridge President Dr. Molly A. Parkhill. “During the next year, we will develop additional courses and programs in alternative fuels to prepare our students for jobs in this rapidly growing industry.”
The first class will be an Introduction to Alternative Fuel Vehicles, a short course geared for automotive technicians who want to expand their skills in alternative fuels. It begins January 19th.