2008 Nevada Skills & Training Competition

The 2008 STN EXPO presents the inaugural Nevada state qualifier for the America’s Best School Bus Inspector & Technician Training and Skills Competition, which will be held this year Sept. 11 through 12 in Tulsa, Okla. The Nevada training event is scheduled for July 28 at Washoe County Schools. Concurrent maintenance workshops will also be held for non-participants.

2008 EXPO Maintenance Track

“Preventative Maintenance”
Perhaps the most important activity in the garage, a regular fleet maintenance schedule can identify potential problems before they occur on the road and save the district costly repairs that can adversely affects students by grounding school buses.
Session Presenter(s): Denny Coughlin, Ralph Knight, & Brent Chaston

“Selecting the Proper Computerized Maintenance Program”
This presentation on computerized maintenance programs will explore the search process, requirements of implementing a system, costs of operating a system with alternative methods, and the real cost benefits to the fleet in evaluation of your current operation and tracking of records.
Session Presenter(s): Denny Coughlin

“America’s Best Competition - Nevada State Qualifier”
The inaugural training and skills competition for Nevada school bus inspectors and school bus technicians to qualify for the national 2008 America’s Best event to be held Sept. 10-12 in Tulsa, Okla.

“Engine Transmission Controls”
This presentation and panel discussion will provide valuable information on this innovative and cost-effective approach to reducing fuel consumption. Custom programming offers the capability to increase both fuel economy over the life of the bus and projected service life of the transmission and driver train, and reduce harmful emissions and the overall noise level.
Session Presenter(s): Dale Goby

“Pre- and Post-Trip Inspections”
This presentation will outline an effective pre- and post-trip inspection for the mechanical items and adds awareness to the security factor. Items covered will include cleanliness of the bus, what are accessible hidden compartments, the trash can, and post-trip walk around.
Session Presenter(s): Joe Scesny

“Retrofitting Rear Dual Wheels to Single Wheels”
For about 15 years the high capacity rear “super-single” has been available and making inroads in the marketplace, offering the driver the convenience of being able to check the tire pressure and reduced labor in tire/wheel changes. This presentation and panel will explore the advantages of using innovative “super single” rear tires in school bus applications.
Session Presenter(s): Dale Goby

“Best Practices for Vehicle Procurement”
This panel discussion takes school bus professionals through the step-by-step process of how state school bus specifications are created. Attendees will also visit with school bus OEMs during the EXPO Trade Show to create their own specifications. Session presenters will grade the results.
Session Presenter(s): Mike Kenney, Brent Chaston, Joe Scesny & Bill Schroyer

“Best Practices in Fuel Procurement”
With the rising price of fuel, the industry is forced to obtain the best price possible. This program will look at traditional and emerging methods of purchasing fueland will explore ways to more accurately budget for this highly volatile commodity.
Session Presenter(s): Denny Coughlin