National Express School (NEXS) tech are back in the classroom. Just after announcing their team going through IC Bus University, the company has now shared that 11 team members have completed another school bus-specific training: Thomas Built Institute’s three-day advanced training sessions for both electric and standard school buses.

The team in Ann Arbor, Mich., participated in advanced-level (HV3) electric school bus training — the final and most advanced level of electric training provided by Thomas Built, according to the company's announcement. The session focuses specifically on high-voltage processes and tests insulation integrity, high-voltage ground resistance, and de-energizing the battery electric vehicle (BEV).

Prior to the final training, team members also completed two other training sessions: level one (HV1), focused on the features of electric vehicles and the differences between maintaining and owning an electric vehicle (EV) fleet vs. a standard school bus fleet, and level two (HV2) on low and high-voltage systems with an extra emphasis on safety processes.

In addition to EV school bus training, training for standard school buses took place in Greensboro, N.C. and Irving, Texas. There, participants received hands-on training focused on advanced diagnostics on different engine platforms, advanced electronics, and other bus components.

Eleven technicians attended the training on the following topics:

• Advanced Electrical Skills

• Advanced Multiplex Systems

• Air Conditioning

• Coolant Class

• Detroit and Cummins Engine and Aftertreatment

• Electrical Charging systems

• Electronic Resources

• Introducing Electric Thomas Bus Familiarization

• Seating Systems

• Wheelchair Lifts

• Type C Conventional reviews the multiplex electrical system, troubleshooting information, and software available.

“We understand the importance of continuously providing our teams with training opportunities to help them flourish in their craft and expertise,” said Wayne Skinner, senior vice president of maintenance for National Express. “The trainings also help ensure that our technicians possess the necessary and most up-to-date skills to maintain our fleet at the highest standards while also increasing engagement and productivity. We will continue developing our relationships with our original equipment manufacturer and electric vehicle partners so that we can ensure our technicians are always performing at their best and able to reach and further advance their potential, and ultimately, their careers.”