He started working at Franklin Marine Inc. in Hixson at an entry level job but has since obtained certification as an OMC technician. Elzie Engle of Tracy City, Tenn., a 1999 graduate, was very familiar with boats when he came to Chattanooga State. He worked on small craft during a 25-year career in the Navy, but the work involved diesel, not gasoline, engines. He got up to speed on gasoline engines at Chattanooga State and is now working at Superior Marine in Soddy-Daisy. The Chattanooga State program is set up to be completed in three semesters, depending on the student's skills.
Students do everything from minor adjustments of engines to major rebuilds.
I try to be very selective about the projects we take on. Students use the same machinery and tools found at a dealership. They are trained to use computers to search for engine parts just as they would at a dealership. Training tapes used in manufacturers' factory schools are part of the curriculum. In addition, Mr. Jones regularly attends factory schools to keep abreast of the changing technology and maintain his certification.