Ohio School Bus Mechanics Plan October Annual Gathering

Workers who keep Ohio’s school buses on the roads are invited to attend the 34^th Annual Ohio School Bus Mechanics Association Workshop.

The event, which moves to the Embassy Suites Columbus/Dublin this year, is set for Oct. 2-4. Attendance helps the state’s school bus mechanics meet annual in-service training requirements. Register no later than Sept. 26.

The Open Forum will provide the latest on school bus inspections and vehicle construction standards, presented by Ohio State Highway Patrol Trooper Mark Murray and Jason Heilman from Ohio’s Department of Education.

Classes planned for the workshop include:

• Ohio specifications and new improvements for school bus bodies, hosted by Blue Bird, IC Bus, and Thomas Built Buses.
• School bus maintenance sessions on Allison transmission, camera diagnostics, Cummins engine, EGR cleaning, filtration, fuel injection, and a hands-on welding class.

“I have been a part of this organization for 13 years, and I learn something new every year,” said Chad Klinge, OSBMA’s northwest regional director. “I get to meet new, fellow bus mechanics from all over the state and gain valuable information.”

The event also includes a vendor exhibit show, with more than 35 vendors showcasing their school bus products.

“Attending the OSBMA workshops provides many learning opportunities,” said Kevin Stenerson of South-Western City Schools. “Talking with experienced mechanics and knowledgeable product representatives can eliminate years of trial and error within our fleet. This gives me confidence in my choices of suppliers and products for our district’s fleet. When you are trying to keep a couple hundred buses on the road, every decision matters.”