Investigating Statewide Alternative Fuel Technician Needs

R27-SP57 Investigating Statewide Alternative Fuel Technician Needs 6/30/2024 A statewide lack of maintenance technicians has hindered efforts to maintain transit vehicles at the highest quality, leading to occasional outsourcing for vehicle maintenance. The aim of this project is to work with transit agencies and other stakeholders to support maintenance technicians in Illinois. Researchers will work with educational institutions and workforce development organizations to determine how IDOT can support a system that recruits, trains, employs and retains maintenance technicians on a larger scale, especially for alternative fuel transit vehicles. Better supporting maintenance technicians will reduce premature vehicle failures as well as save on short- and long-term maintenance and capital costs.