Diesel technicians are getting up-to-date, accurate information about biodiesel compliments of a National Biodiesel Board (NBB) training program. The program is a partnership between NBB and Universal Technical Institute, a provider of entry-level technicians to the transportation industry. So far, more than 300 instructors have been taught about biodiesel through the program.

“I’ve found that students are very curious about biodiesel, but they come in with misinformation,” said Jason Mosler, UTI instructor and technical team leader. “They think that it’s fryer grease, that you can make it in your backyard. When we can clear the air on those misconceptions and explain what commercial biodiesel really is, their eyes are opened.”

The success of the training program has spawned additional local level programs. Recently, the Iowa Biodiesel Board (IBB) received a grant to conduct similar training sessions. Both NBB and the Iowa Soybean Association have supported the IBB program.

“People listen to their automotive technicians, and if there is an information gap there, techs are not likely to recommend biodiesel to their customers,” said Rachel Burton, who leads NBB’s Biodiesel for Diesel Technicians program. “By increasing awareness at that level, we grow biodiesel acceptance in general and will ultimately help biodiesel reach its full potential, with all its benefits.”

For more information on training opportunities for OEMs and dealers, visit www.biodieselautomotive.org.