Autonomous technology saves lives, but this innovative technology requires operators and technicians that are properly trained in the use, maintenance, diagnosis, and repair of these technologies. The Minnesota State Transportation Center of Excellence (TCOE) has been awarded an NSF grant to help address this need for qualified technicians. This will be accomplished through three areas:
Professional Development & Curriculum
This grant seeks to increase teacher knowledge and skills related to ADAS, Autonomous Technology, and advanced vehicle technology in the heavy truck/diesel/ equipment sector, along with providing usable curriculum for their classrooms.
Outreach
Working with 33 college campuses in MN, along with numerous industry allies, we will provide outreach specific to ADAS technology to the high schools in MN. These activities, involving local industry employees, will inspire students by showcasing career opportunities and the autonomous technologies used in transportation.
Advanced Technology
Acquire high-tech, hands- on, real-world resources for student learning and outreach activities. High Schools and Colleges will utilize these resources in their classrooms, labs, and for outreach for an estimated 1-2 weeks. The equipment will then rotate to the next college campus.
As we continue this process, we will utilize the annual MTTIA conference as our primary location for professional development training. The TCOE has used the acquired ISA-TOPE technology to develop multiple outreach videos that can be utilized in various outreach activities throughout the state or beyond. The videos are reusable and can provide a consistent message to students about the level of technology in the diesel, truck, or equipment technician and truck driver programs offered at Minnesota State Colleges. Open Educational Resource Curriculum is being developed for diesel technician and truck driver training related to autonomous technology. This curriculum will be utilized at schools, in conjunction with the acquired technology, to provide students with usable training in technology and real-world applications. The TCOE will continue to collaborate with various industry leading associations (i.e. ASE or AED) and aid in the development of national, industry-recognized, industry-influenced, standards that can lead to certifications for both technicians and students.
VIdeos
Can i borrow that?
Yes! You can borrow our Semi-Tractor and our Track Loader with the BB124 Box Blade Attachment by submitting an equipment request form.
2023 Freightliner 114SD
Caterpillar 259D3
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This material is based in part upon work supported by the National Science Foundation (DUE 2054997). Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.
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