the circuit october 2012 - Rosedale Technical College

October 2012
RTI hosts unveiling ceremony of the
Ben Wilke Training Center
President Dennis Wilke, with the help
of Dieselzilla, revealed the “Ben Wilke
Training Center” on Friday September
21, 2012. The student-restored truck
displayed the aptitude and innovation
of Rosedale’s diesel students and provided event guests a sneak peak of
the impressive diesel education opportunities that will be enriched by the brand new Ben Wilke
Training Center.
Rosedale Technical Institute hosted a reception for local
officials, such as County Commissioner Rich Fitzgerald and State
Representative Matt Smith as well as local school officials,
alumni, employers and friends of the school to see first-hand the
innovative diesel facility and resources.
Surrounded by the sounds of the
Montour High School Drum Line,
Dennis Wilke briefed the crowd on
Rosedale’s rich 60 year
history. He highlighted
the evolution of resources that have facilitated job placement
rates much higher than
four-year colleges. These remarkable resources available to prospective students included hands-on instruction, career development and classes, job fairs, and financial aid.
“The job opportunities in Western PA for diesel techni-
cians and truck drivers are exciting. We had 25 companies here for a career fair recently, all looking to
hire our diesel grads. The new building helps us meet
the industry’s needs.”
-Dennis Wilke
Rosedale’s new facility will only augment the institute’s
tradition of industry savvy. Wilke explained the need for
trained, knowledgeable diesel professionals, from mechanics to
drivers, and the lack of qualified individuals. He noted that businesses are actually leaving the region due to lack of excellent
potential employees. Diesel students at Rosedale will graduate
at a supreme advantage, thanks to the new 2.5 million dollar
facility. New resources include a diesel truck driving simulator,
classrooms with Smart Board technology, a full computer lab,
hands-on education stations, housed in a space huge enough to
hold a hand full of diesel trucks to study.
But there was no better example of Rosedale's diesel aptitude than Dieselzilla. The airport trolley engine students transformed was unrecognizable. The truck's complete make-over,
from the homemade biodiesel fuel to the sharp exterior, is a
living testament to the incredible talents of both instructors
and students at Rosedale Tech.
As Dieselzilla’s
engine roared and
spun out, it unveiled
the official name, the
“Ben Wilke Training
Center.”
Ben Wilke, a long
time President of
Rosedale and current
President Dennis Wilke’s
father, has a rich legacy
of unfailing devotion to
Rosedale Tech. As the
current Vice President, he continues to impact the constant
evolution of Rosedale’s academic approaches.
Students have already begun studying and working in the
Ben Wilke Training Center, a space that will serve students for
years to come.
-See more Grand Opening photos on pages 6 & 7.
Political Visits at RTI
Senator
Pat Toomey
Senator
Wayne
Fontana
President Wilke showing Senator Fontana the Mechatronics
Unit (Commercial Conveyor Simulator)
Democratic Senator Wayne Fontana, from Pennsylvania’s 42nd district, made a visit to Rosedale Tech in late August. His goal was to
learn about Rosedale’s programs of study and the environment in
which they are taught. After a brief meeting with Rosedale President Dennis Wilke, the Senator was given a tour of the newly
named, Phil Chosky Training Center. Stops on the tour included
the electrical labs, general educations classrooms, the new cafeteria, “Steel Toe Station”, the vast automotive shop and the HVAC
lab.
After visiting the previously mentioned facilities in the Phil Chosky
Training Center, President Wilke and Senator Fontana moved on to
the new 43,000 square foot Ben Wilke Training Center, home to
the Diesel Technology Program. Here they toured multiple labs and
newly constructed classrooms. Led by their instructors, Diesel
Technology students shared several demonstrations for the Senator in the labs including biodiesel and hydraulics.
Pennsylvania’s Senator, Republican Pat Toomey visited Rosedale
Technical Institute. Also invited were a number of local employers and representatives for educational institutions including
Wright Automotive, Hunter Truck Sales and Service, American
Eagle Outfitters, Lancaster School of Cosmetology and Therapeutic Body Work, Triangle Tech, Laurel Business Institute, Bradford
Schools, Delta Education, Empire Education Group and Education
Affiliates, PAPSA and APSCU.
Senator Toomey and the participants toured RTI’s facilities with
instructors Paul Danner, Lou Levine, Marc Mullin and
J.R. Mangan. After the tour, the group congregated in the “Steel
Toe Station” where President Wilke spoke briefly before giving
the floor to Senator Toomey. The Senator fielded questions on
topics such as the Pell Grant and the development of the Marcellus Shale Project. Rosedale is proud to have been host to Senator
Toomey and also for creating an informative and enlightening
dialogue for both employers and educators.
Auto Instructor
Paul Danner and
Senator Pat
Toomey
Rosedale would like to extend a special thank you to Senator Fontana and his staff for taking the time to tour RTI’s facilities and for
meeting with our faculty, staff and students.
Congressman
Critz
Instructor Brandon Danser’s
class gave a
demonstration on
a/c recovery and
th
recycling. This
Congressman Mark Critz (D-PA 12 District) visited RTI to tour the
procedure not
Ben Wilke Training Center. The development of the Marcellus
only produces less
Shale Project continues to have a major effect on jobs in our area.
waste and miniEmployers have shown no decline in their strong demand for emmizes CFC gasses,
ployees with a background in Diesel Mechanics. The Congressman
Diesel Students Brittany Wenk and Matthew
was interested to see how Rosedale Tech is keeping up with current but also lowers
maintenance
Toro giving Congressman Critz a lesson in
trends in the job force.
costs for the
biodiesel fuel.
The tour started in the biodiesel lab, where Congressman Critz asconsumer.
sisted instructor Rob Murphy’s class in the creation of a batch of
biodiesel fuel. Continuing on, the Congressman spoke with instruc- The Congressman finished his tour with a lesson on the importance
tor Mark Simoneau’s class on the subject of hydraulic hoses, folof air brakes and their features from instructor JR Mangan.
lowed by a brief tour of instructor Karl Kruger’s smartboard
We appreciate the Congressman sharing his time with us.
equipped classroom.
Page 2
The Circuit
The Inside Scoop
The following students have accepted employment with
the subsequent companies. RTI grads have found employment in all levels of the electrical, diesel and automotive
fields within several different industries.
Student Name
Matt Linko (left) with Rosedale Student Services Coordinator
John Fostyk (right)
Employer
Program
Jeremy Batchelor
First Vehicle Services
Diesel
Devin Buchko
Advance Auto Parts
Auto
Andrew Gmys
Budd Baer
Auto
Ryan Coleman
Firestone Complete Auto Care
Auto
Ron Foster
Advance Auto Parts
Auto
Richard Deighan
Carnegie Mellon University
Electrical
Peris Smith
Adecco
Electrical
Rosedale Tech hosted their semi-annual Career Fair in September. Over 40 employers from the automotive, diesel, electrical,
and HVAC fields attended the event. These employers scheduled
72 student interviews which were performed directly following
the career fair.
Yvain Schaffnit
Duncan Land and Energy
Auto
Steven Batemon
Metalico
Diesel
Clayton Cox
MS Energy Services
Diesel
Kolby Carr
Glick Fire Equipment Company
Diesel
One of the employers that visited the fair was Sears Automotive
Group. Matt Linko, a March 2012 Automotive graduate, attended
the career fair recruiting for Sears. Matt stated “it feels great to
come back here to sit on the other side of the table”. Matt’s
secret to success was to “show up and give it everything you’ve
got”. Matt’s passion and persistence in the automotive field got
him to a managerial role shortly into his young career.
Patrick Erickson
First Vehicle Services
Diesel
Joshua Henderson
Mr. Tire
Auto
Eric Fisher
Beemac Trucking
Diesel
Charles Williamson
Sears Auto Center
Auto
Kenneth Lambert
Star Transportation Group
Auto
Matt found many eligible candidates at the Career Fair and he
looks forward to some follow-up interviews.
John Mahn
Riverquest
Diesel
Damean Brannan
Tint Plus 2
Auto
If you are an employer and you are looking to hire a Rosedale
student please contact:
Patrick Hill
Sears Auto Center
Auto
Lindsay Moore
Katko LTD
Diesel
The Other Side
of the Table
John Fostyk in Students Services at 412-250-0043.
ADVISORY BOARDS
Keeps Rosedale
CURRENT
Among Rosedale’s biggest priorities is the placement of its students
into their desired job and/or career. In order to meet this goal, the
school must stay aware of current trends within the industries of
each of the four areas of study. To do so, RTI has established an
advisory board each for Automotive, Diesel, HVAC and Electrical.
The Circuit
Bryan Raykovics
Mike’s Truck Service
Diesel
The advisory boards are made up of employers, community members and specialists in the industry. They meet twice a year to exchange thoughts and ideas.
The information gathered from these meetings helps to develop the
educational curriculum. By doing so, RTI is able to stay ahead of the
always changing trends within the trades and continue to produce
attractive candidates to employers both during and after graduation.
Rosedale realizes that staying current with technology and trends
not only benefits the school, but more importantly the education of
each of its students.
Page 3
The Inside Scoop
Rosedale Tech Awarded
Military Friendly
Schools Title
Rosedale Technical Institute was again voted one of the best places to work by Pittsburgh
Business Times for the third year in a row, as well as by the Pittsburgh Post Gazette for
the first year!
Employees are asked to take a brief
survey detailing the working environment, management styles, and general
company culture. The results determine overall employee morale.
Want To Be A Part Of This Team?
Rosedale continues to search for quality
employees to add to the faculty and staff. If you are interested in applying for a position
with Rosedale please send your cover letter and resume to [email protected].
Sammy Martinez
Wins Scholarship
Diesel Technology student Sammy Martinez was recently awarded a $1,000 scholarship from the Hispanic
Chamber of Commerce. Several letters of recommendation in combination with an essay explaining why
the award would most benefit him led to Mr. Martinez
winning. Financial Aid Director Anna Bartolini made
Sammy aware of the scholarship and encouraged him to apply.
Sammy began his studies at RTI in August, 2011. Along with classwork, Martinez currently
works at Lenzner Coach Lines in Sewickley, PA where he is a mechanic and mainly focuses
on preventative maintenance. He enjoys working at Lenzner and upon graduation, plans
to continue his career there. Everyone at RTI extends congratulations to Sammy on his
impressive accomplishment.
Rosedale Technical Institute was recently
named a Military Friendly School by GI Jobs
Magazine. The 2013 Military Friendly
Schools list honors the top 15 percent of
colleges, universities and trade schools in
the country that are doing the most to embrace America’s military service members,
veterans, and spouses as students and ensure their success on campus.
Rosedale provides Financial Aid assistance
to Veterans who qualify, and makes every
effort to ensure the transition from the
Military to school is an easy one. Over 10%
of the students at RTI are Veterans.
“Inclusion on the 2013 list of Military
Friendly Schools shows Rosedale Tech’s
commitment to providing a supportive environment for military students,” said Sean
Collins, Director for G.I. Jobs and Vice President at Victory Media. “As interest in education grows we’re thrilled to provide the
military community with transparent,
world-class resources to assist in their
search for schools,” said Sean.
Sunday Business Page
President Dennis Wilke and Diesel Technology student Kevin Rock appeared on
KDKA's Sunday Business Times with John Delano to discuss the unveiling of the Ben
Wilke Training Center.
The group discussed the new opportunities granted to diesel students coinciding with
the opening of the new facility, opportunities that facilitate Rosedale's 96% diesel job
placement. Mr. Wilke discussed the need for qualified diesel candidates, reiterated by
Kevin's experience job-hunting before enrolling, and the subsequent myriad job opportunities for Rosedale grads.
President Wilke and Diesel Technology student Kevin Rock on the set of
KDKA’s Sunday Business Page
Page 4
The Circuit
The Inside Scoop
Rosedale Introduces the
Phil Chosky
Training Center
For all of the Rosedale visitors that enter the
lobby of the Rosedale Tech building located
at 215 Beecham Drive you will find a sign
that says “Phil Chosky Training Center”. Phil
Chosky was a long time Pittsburgh resident
and acknowledged philanthropist in the Pittsburgh area.
In 1969 Phil Chosky purchased Rosedale
Technical Institute from William and James
Johnston. Throughout his time as Director of
ON THE ROAD
Rosedale he was very involved in the every
day operations of the school, from Admissions to Financial Aid. In the early days of
Financial Aid programs (1970’s), Mr. Chosky
participated in national and state meetings
to insure that Private Technical Schools were
included in financial assistance programs.
Mr. Chosky was very passionate about the
trades, so much that he remained on the
Board of Directors when Ben Wilke took over
as Director of the school in the year 2000.
One of Phil Chosky’s traditional phrases
(which current President Dennis Wilke frequently uses in his honor) was “at Rosedale
Tech you don’t earn your PhD you earn a
J.O.B.”
In 2004 Mr. Chosky resigned from the Board
of Directors and in 2011 at the age of 85 he
passed away. Rosedale is proud to name
the Beecham Drive location the “Phil Chosky
Training Center” in his honor.
Administrative Assistant Sue Henze
welcomes guests to the
Phil Chosky Training Center.
High School Instructors & Counselors
You and your students are invited to
Rosedale Tech for an action
packed fieldtrip.
Pictured are Diesel Technology
graduates David Gillespie and
Derek Weimer, the first two Rosedale
students to successfully complete the
new Rosedale Class A CDL driving
course in-house. Congrats guys!
RTI fieldtrips are interactive and
include stimulating educational
demonstrations and competitions. We would like the opportunity to showcase our state-of-the-art
facilities and equipment.
If you would like to schedule a tour
or have one of our high school
representatives present to your class, please
contact :
Ben Martin
412-855-4365 (cell) or 412-521-6200 (office).
McKeesport high school students
pose with DieselZilla.
Truck Driving Training and Preventative Maintenance Program NOW OFFERED!
In an effort to meet the rising demand
for truckers in the workforce, Rosedale
is proud to announce Truck Driving
The Circuit
Training as its newest program of study.
Students currently enrolled in the Diesel Technology program will have the
ability to test and train for their class A
Commercial Drivers License (CDL) in
house. Previously students had to go
off-site for training.
New instructor Vaughn Greil
brings years of experience and insight
from the trucking industry into the
classroom. Students will be able to
take advantage of a state-of-the-art
truck driving simulator that mimics
thousands of real life driving circumstances. Rosedale has acquired two
Freightliner 53’ van trailers, a 45’
spread axle, a 45’ flatbed, a 26’ van
trailer and a 40’ low bay trailer on
which students will be trained. Hours
of actual on the road training will now
be conducted on premises and beyond.
Students will be prepped on the three
major facets of the driving Class A CDL
exam; pre-trip, skills and actual driving.
Page 5
SEEN at Ben Wilke Training Center
RTI Retiree
Donna Drudy
& Rosedale
Grad Eric Cook
“EricTheCarGuy”
Rosedale President Dennis Wilke and Vice President Ben Wilke with the
Montour High School Drum Line
State Representative
Matt Smith and Tim
Dillon with Allegiance
Staffing
State Representative Matt Smith signs
the RTI Truck in the Ben Wilke Training
Center
Rosedale Administrative Assistant
Sue Henze and Executive Assistant
Jen Cox sign in guests at the grand
opening event
AVI Chef Ryan Murphy, Director of
Financial Aid Anna Bartolini, and
Student Services Assistant Joni Curl
make sure guests have plenty of
refreshments.
L-R: Fran Panza, Jeanne Panza, Bernie Wilke,
Ben Wilke, Dennis Wilke, Chris Wilke, and
David Wilke
Page 6
Team Hoffman Murtaugh – Melissa
Wilson, Jessica Anselmio, and Dorine
Tucci
Andy
Wisniewski,
and Howard
Boughter
from Kenny
Ross
Chevrolet
(L to R) Lisa Neil (Southwest Training Svcs.),
Lisa Fulton (PA CareerLink), Kathy Stein
(Financial Aid Officer), and Cindy Derrico
(Southwest Tr. Svcs.)
The Rosedale Staff gets together for a photo following the event
The Circuit
SEEN at Ben Wilke Training Center
Lamar ’s
Bruce
Pompeani
and PA
CareerLink’s
Vince Booker
Pennzoil’s Al Saldamarco and Larry
Tamburri tour the Ben Wilke Training
Center
President Dennis Wilke, State
Representative Matt Smith, and County
Commissioner Rich Fitzgerald
County Commissioner Rich Fitzgerald,
Ben Wilke, Dennis Wilke
Diesel Instructor Brian Mullen, Maintenance
Supervisor Tim Weleski, Diesel Instructor Rob
Murphy, and IT Specialist Tony Capriotti
Parkway CTC representatives Jack
Highfield, David Kania, and Liz Lanshcak
The Hite
Company’s
Gene Guiliani
and Joe
Wesolowski
Director of Education Jim Shore, and Allstate
Career College’s Mary Louisa Benny, and Jim
Papariella from Vandalia Consulting
Michelle Kreutzer,
Pittsburgh Chamber
of Commerce and
Rosedale Financial
Aid Rep Kathy Stein
Marketing Coordinator Suzie McGugin,
Director of Education Ed Petrunak, and
Director of Admissions Debbie Bier sign the
RTI Truck
Joe Orlich of Valley Waste Services
with President Dennis Wilke
Student Ambassadors for the Grand Opening included:
(L to R) Robert King, Ryan Wissinger, Jordan Myers, Kevin Rock, Patrick
Metcalfe, and Manuel Vinas Missing from the picture: Logan Cypher, Elmer
Bittinger, Derek Weimer, Steven Neal and Brian Henze
The Circuit
USA
Special
Services
team Zach
Smith and
Rich Smith
Snap On executives (L to R): Bob Rose, Doug Liprando,
Bob Lafredo, and Greg Rintala, with President Dennis
Wilke (center)
Page 7
What’s NEW ?
Steel Toe Station ...OPEN FOR BUSINESS!
Rosedale Tech recently opened its doors to the new state-of-the-art cafeteria, Steel Toe Station.
Steel Toe Station is a fully equipped cafeteria with multiple breakfast, lunch, and dinner options.
The deli offers customers fresh wraps, salads, sandwiches, pitas, and Panini. The pizzeria offers freshly baked pizzas, including deep dish and flatbread style with a variety of toppings. The entrée/hot
food station provides a wide variety of meats and comfort foods with three daily specials per week.
The grill offers fresh burgers and chicken sandwiches, with a variety of foods still to come.
Steel Toe Station is operated by manager Ed Pockl, who has been in the food
service industry for three years. He has always had a passion for customer
service, and the food service industry is as customer friendly as it gets.
Ed is originally from the Pittsburgh area, so he is a huge Pirates, Penguins,
and Steelers fan. He gained his food service knowledge working at
Seton La Salle and Cal U. Ed states “I am here to meet the needs of my customers. If there are any recommendations, questions, or concerns I would
love to hear them.”
He encourages everyone to stop by and visit Steel Toe Station, whether it’s to
talk about sports, grab lunch, or fill out a comment card.
A GIFT that KEEPS ON
GIVING!
Bridgestone Trust Fund donated $10,000
to Rosedale Tech to assist with the purchase of the tables and chairs for the
dining area at Steel Toe Station.
This generous contribution is greatly
appreciated and will serve our students
and staff well for many years to come.
Steel Toe Station recently launched the
Rosedale Refill Cup.
The October cup is
$8.00 and allows students to receive drink
refills on hot or cold
beverages for $.50 per
refill.
Evening Auto student
Chris Whiddon enjoys
his $.50 refills with
dinner.
Page 8
Pictured are Renee Petros and Sherif Kamel from Bridgestone/Firestone with RTI
President, Dennis Wilke.
New Way to Shop
Redwing Shoes of Leetsdale, PA is the new
shoe vendor for Rosedale Tech. Their shoe
showroom visits our facility on the first day
of each new start.
Redwing will provide students and faculty a true
shopping convenience.
The 30 foot Redwing truck is fully equipped with displays of safety shoes in various
sizes. Hours of the truck will be posted on classroom doors prior to
Red Wing’s visit.
The Circuit
What’s Going On with GRADS ?
Rosedale Tech Diesel graduate Josh Roe
was featured on the Discovery Channel
special “Life Changing Medicine”. This
program was produced to highlight all of
the innovative medical procedures UPMC
is practicing to save and enhance the lives
of their patients.
Staying
Connected . . .
Rosedale automotive graduate
Larry Martin not only has a passion for
working on and driving cars, his hobby is
photographing cars.
Editor of the Flashlight Drags program,
Michael Schindel,
Schindel got word of this and
offered Larry a press pass for the August
26th Flashlight Drags event.
Larry accepted the offer, and got some
great shots of the cars. Pictured is one of
the photos Larry took right before the
races began.
Like Father
Like Son
Josh Roe and his son Justin
Prior to attending RTI, Josh was involved in
a near fatal car accident. Josh was in a
coma and doctors predicted he would not
resume brain function.
An advanced medical procedure was performed where the doctors cooled Josh’s
body temperature down to a hypothermic
state. This relieved some of the pressure
on Josh’s brain, and allowed him to recover from the coma. Josh was told by doctors he would not be able to walk, and he
would have a very difficult time performing everyday tasks. As a military Vet, Josh
was not accustomed to giving up. “They
told me I couldn’t do it. No one tells me I
can’t do something.”
Josh thrived in his rehabilitation facility,
and was soon walking, eating, and performing all of the everyday tasks that he
was told he wouldn’t be able to do. Much
of Josh’s motivation was his 12 year old
son, Justin.
When asked what advice Josh would give
to others facing severe challenges like he
did, Josh simply said “Don’t give up, just
don’t give up.”
The Circuit
Ed Mancini graduated from
Rosedale Tech in 1976 from the
Auto/Diesel program. He went on
to work in the field for 13 years,
found his passion was engines &
transmissions, and opened
Mancini’s Transmission in 1989 in
Pittsburgh’s Brighton Heights area.
Ed enjoys his job so much he
states “even on vacation, I can’t
wait to get back to work.”
Ed’s son, Ed Jr., graduated from
Northgate High School in May
2011, and Ed Sr. was sure he was going into a sports medicine or nutrition program, as he
had never shown any interest in the automotive field. Ed Jr. approached his father one
day, said he had changed his mind and he wanted to work at the transmission shop.
Ed Sr. brought him in for a day, gave him some of the dirtiest jobs, and decided if he could
handle it he would bring him on board. Ed Jr. did a wonderful job and was excited about
all of the tasks his father had him completing. There was one more requirement Ed Sr. had
– Ed Jr. must complete his education and receive hands-on training in the automotive field,
like he had.
Ed Sr. attributes much of his success to his education from Rosedale Tech. He said it gave
him a good start, and he would never have been able to “jump right in and start working”
if not for his training at Rosedale. Ed Jr. decided to follow in his father’s footsteps and
currently attends Rosedale Tech.
Ed Jr. is enjoying his hands-on training in the automotive technician program and is scheduled to graduate in June 2013. Upon graduation, Ed Jr. plans to work full-time for Mancini’s
Transmission.
Page 9
Getting To Know YOU!
A Hands
Hands--On Bus Race UPDATE
SUMMER
This year, due to the school
schedule, students received
a three week break in late
July/early August.
While their fellow students
were relaxing, work study
students James McClinton
and Ryan Butterworth were working from 6:00am – 2:00pm. Over
the summer break RTI was given a “face lift” that included deep
cleaning, painting, moving of classrooms, and the biggest project –
the installation of the cafeteria.
In the last issue of The Circuit we featured Diesel student Jordan
Myers and his 007 school bus which RTI students were helping him
prep for the “Back to School Bus Races” in September. Jordan successfully completed the qualifying race at the Lernerville Speedway
in Sarver PA, and then handed the driver’s seat over to RTI Diesel
instructor Rob Murphy to complete the main race.
The main race consisted of 6 buses which had to complete 15 laps
each. Rob Murphy (driver of RTI’s drag truck DieselZilla) easily
took the first place spot. All those years driving DieselZilla really
paid off. Congrats to Rob and Jordan for a job well done!
Rosedale Tech hires students for the work study program in the areas of Financial Aid, Maintenance, Education, and for Propel Schools
(community service). Positions vary based on department needs
and are posted throughout the school when available. To qualify,
students must complete an application process which includes an
interview with Director of Financial Aid Anna Bartolini. The most
qualified students are selected for these positions.
This same hard work and dedication is the reason they have been
successful and will continue to be successful in their fields of study.
(Above L-R) Auto Tech student James McClinton, Maintenance Supervisor Tim Weleski and Auto Tech student Ryan Butterworth.
RTI Instructor Rob Murphy (far left) and diesel student Jordan
Myers (holding trophy) accept the first place award.
Nick Hoovler is a Mudgician
Not unlike many beginning here at Rosedale Tech,
newly enrolled Diesel Technology student Nick
Hoovler has been a gearhead for quite some time.
Beginning in his hometown in Mercer County as a
child years ago under the guidance of his uncle, Nick
has been tinkering with a variety of engines. While
there was work to be done on tractors and beyond for
the farm, real excitement came when working on a
mud racer that his uncle had hoped to enter in competitions. During the school year, he would stay as late as he could
on weeknights hoping to learn as much as possible. In the summers,
when he wasn’t bailing hay or attending to other various chores on
the farm, the majority of his free time was again spent in the garage.
Eventually the work on the racer became more serious and the opportunity to compete became a reality.
Nick’s uncle and their team began with a 545 cubic inch engine,
eventually upgrading to a 712. In 2006, they held the world mud
drag record on the 180 ft. track with a time of 2.416 seconds using a
712 cubic inch displacement. They have competed all over the
country including races in Lima, OH, Bloomsburg, IN, Transfer, PA
and even as far away as Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, the Carolinas
and Missouri. Their team, under the name Mudgician, is a 6 time
National MRA points champion with wins coming in 2004, 2005,
2007, 2008, 2010 and 2011.
Page 10
While diesel engines are a bit different than to what he has become
accustomed, much of his experience prior to Rosedale Tech has
proven extremely beneficial.“I love it here, everything has been
great. Diesel engines are really pretty similar to the ones we use in
racing. Spark plugs are the major difference,” Nick said.
Mudgician, which most recently competed in Transfer, PA in August
in the Modified class, has again received some upgrades. Here is
what is currently under the hood:
 744 Cubic Inch Displacement V8 Long Block
 Nitrous Oxide 600-800 psi
 ’81 Pontiac Back Axle
 Independent Chevy Front Axle
 King XLR Suspension
 Racing Shocks
Continued success to Nick and the Mudgician on the mud drag race
circuit!
The Circuit
Getting To Know YOU!
Electrical Students Help
With Construction of
HVAC Lab
Students in Rosedale Tech’s HVAC program have begun training
in a new lab. HVAC jobs are expected to rise at an astounding
rate over the next ten years namely because of the country’s
building boom in the last decade. Heating and Air Conditioning
units need to be serviced or replaced every ten years causing a
major rise in the demand for those in the field. Rosedale wants
to ensure its students are prepared for the many upcoming opportunities.
To help in the construction of the new lab, Mike Breskovich and
Chuck Henderson’s classes teamed up to install much of what
was needed. Among other things, Breskovich’s students put in
over 1,000 feet of metal sheet cable, 500 feet of conduit and
over 80 outlets. Henderson’s students continued by installing
the lighting, power runs and emergency lighting circuitry.
Additionly, Wayne Walker’s HVAC students ran gas piping in the
HVAC space for the new furnace lab. For the students this is a
real life application of their trade.
Nice work everyone, the results look great!
Hyundai Motor America
Donates Vehicle To Rosedale Tech
Thanks to a generous donation from Hyundai Motor America, automotive students will notice an addition to Rosedale Tech’s fleet
of cars on which they receive training. Hyundai, whose corporate
office is located in Costa Mesa, California, has offered a 2007 Azera for the school’s use. Former Rosedale Tech graduate, Rich
Palahunik, who now works at Hyundai helped to facilitate the
deal. The car, being one of the newest models in the garage, will
broaden students’ knowledge base on a number of levels.
Automotive computer diagnostics have rapidly evolved over the
last decade. On top of the traditional troubleshooting issues associated with other vehicles, the car’s recent technology will offer
real life experience normally learned on the job postgraduation.“..For example, with this car, I’m now able to teach
the students about more modern issues that they used to have
to learn at the dealership where they worked,” Automotive Instructor Dave Sladky said. He went on to say that students will
now be able to study the function of the car’s diagnostic system
and sensors that relay information on bi-directional controls,
wheel speed, mass airflow, ECT, crank and scope among others.
Rosedale Tech is pleased to expand the student learning experience and thankful for Hyundai’s generosity and commitment to
enhancing automotive education.
Mullin’s Marketing Class
Greg Davis and his mother Bonnie Davis were searching for a fresh
marketing perspective for Greg’s business, Davis Mobile Repair LLC,
located in Berryville, VA.
Bonnie decided to put in a call to Greg’s alma mater, Rosedale Tech,
to see if they could lend a hand. After speaking with Rosedale President Dennis Wilke, Bonnie was referred to General Education Instructor Marc Mullin.
Mr. Mullin teaches business management, entrepreneurship, and
shop management in his general education class. Marc thought the
project of building a marketing plan for a business was similar to the research, competitive research, website suggestions, and even
hands on instruction that students have in the auto program.
sample ads and flyers.
The class immediately began working on an Integrated Marketing
Plan, including a SWOT analysis (identifying strengths, weaknesses,
opportunities, and threats in the organization), demographic
The Circuit
This was such a successful project that Mr. Mullin already has
another graduate requesting assistance with his shop in Carnegie.
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Faculty & Staff
On The
Road
with
VAUGHN
What A Catch!
Rosedale Tech’s new instructor, Vaughn Greil , is no
stranger to being behind the
wheel of a big rig. A 17 year
veteran of the road and with
over 2 million miles logged, Mr. Greil brings an incredible amount of experience and
knowledge to those in his CDL class.
Vaughn got his CDL in January of 1995 from Canterbury Career School. In fact, one of his
teachers there was current Rosedale Electrical instructor, Lou Levine. Upon graduation, he
drove ‘over the road’, meaning longer overnight hauls, for 2.5 months. After that, Vaughn
transitioned into ‘local’ or ‘short haul’ trucking. These trips were for the most part 450600 miles, out and back in the same day. He worked for a number of companies in the
Pittsburgh area including Estes, Overnight Transport and UPS Freight among others.
Vaughn’s passion for trucking developed early on. Raised mostly by his grandparents, Vaughn’s grandfather drove trucks for the old Gimbels department store in the North
Side. “He’s the one who instilled my work ethic. He taught me if you’re not 5 or 10
minutes early, you’re late,” he said. To this day he carries two photos in his wallet, one of
his son and another of his grandfather. Both serve as a constant reminder of why he does
what he does.
Mr. Greil’s addition to Rosedale will be extremely beneficial to students within the
CDL and Diesel programs. His real life experience has already added to the curriculum and
will offer invaluable training to his students.
The Incredible
After twenty minutes of struggling with
his line and the waves, Director of Education Jim Shore was eye to eye with a
40lb sting ray this summer in Myrtle
Beach, SC. He was all smiles until he
realized he had to put the fish back into
the water without getting stung.
DAN’S The MAN!
HALL
As a graduate of Rosedale
Tech and over 17 years of
experience teaching here, no
one overlooks transmissions
instructor Jim Hall. Not just
because of his amazing
knowledge of transmissions,
but also because of his size.
Jim says he was never a skinny guy, but he started getting into lifting about 15 years ago. He says it helps relieve
stress, keeps you healthy, and it also gives you an edge in the automotive field (being able
to maneuver heavy equipment with ease).
When he first started he was struggling to lift 225lbs, but he could do it. Jim says “now I
warm up with that”. Jim has lifted over 400lbs, but prefers to stay around the 315lb mark.
He enjoys the feeling of being healthy and in shape and he is proud to say he is still wearing the same size jeans he was when he was 18 years old.
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Automotive Instructor Dan Svitko celebrated his 30th year at Rosedale Tech last
month. Dan is not only a long time instructor of Rosedale, but is also a graduate of the
automotive program. Congrats Dan!
The Circuit
Faculty & Staff
Rosedale
Adds
Instructor to
Truck Driving
Fleet
RTI
WELCOMES
Sean Barrett
Rosedale Tech has made a new addition to
its admissions staff. Sean Barrett, of Lawrenceville, was recently brought on as a
High School Speaker. He moved back to
the Pittsburgh area in 2009 after living in
the Phoenix area for roughly seven years.
A graduate of Arizona State University, he
received a degree in Creative Writing and
Business. Upon graduation, he decided to
take on a bit of a passion project where he
toured the country for nearly three months
documenting the expansive Pittsburgh
Steelers fan culture. Along with a photographer, he spent nearly every day in a new
city interviewing and photographing Steelers fans of all walks of life and backgrounds
in hopes of creating an all-encompassing
book on the subject. He also worked as a
freelance writer for the Pittsburgh PostGazette during his travels.
His writing skills are a welcome addition to
The Circuit staff. Sean contributed by interviewing and writing many of the articles
in this edition.
Sean hopes to add to RTI’s growing population, focusing mostly on students coming
out of high school. Sean states: “The faculty, students and staff have been very welcoming. Working with everyone has been a
pleasure, especially Ben Martin and John
Fostyk, my two childhood friends.”
Welcome to RTI Sean.
The Circuit
David Wadlow, has joined
the Educational Department as an instructor for the Truck Driving Program. He formerly worked for Swift Transportation company of Harrisburg, PA. While working for Swift, David hauled loads all over
the United States. In 2005, he became a mentor for newly hired truck drivers .
It was his role as a mentor in combination with 20 years of management experience that
led him to realize how much he enjoyed teaching. “I recently discovered that teaching is
what I most like to do; really it’s what I’m supposed to do,” he said.
“I really like it here. Everyone has been nice, welcoming and it definitely is a great learning
environment,” he went on to say.
Welcome to RTI, David.
Take me out to the BALL GAME!
RTI’s Admissions staff attended
the Pirates vs. Reds game on
Friday, September 28.
While they suffered through yet
another Pirates loss, they were
also fortunate enough to witness
history as Cincinnati pitcher
Homer Bailey threw the 279th nohitter in baseball history.
The Circuit wants to hear from YOU.
If you have announcements, photographs, or any news that you would
like to share for publication in The Circuit,
Circuit please contact us. THANK YOU!
Debbie Bier
Suzie McGugin
Sean Barrett
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Page 13
Achievements & Awards
The following individuals received awards for being exceptional students while attending RTI:
August 2012 Awards
Instructors’ Choice- Cumulative perfect attendance after one full semester.
Automotive: Guy Hutchinson, Ryan Butterworh, Gary Dunworth ,Brandon Greening, Seth Homison, Ryan Allen, Jeffrey
Anderson, Anthony Rumsey, Raymond Sanders.
Diesel: Samson Blose, Steven Neal, Elmer Bittinger, Richard Young, Luther Coe, Brian Henze, Manuel Vinas.
Electrical: Michael Henry, Dominic Pulcini, James Yotz, Thomas Ralston, Gary Lowden, Jeremy Martin, Eric Rodgers.
HVAC: Glenn Kady
President’s List- Cumulative GPA of 3.4 or Higher after at least one full semester.
Automotive: Joel Carmody, Maria Lucjak, Darran Miller, James Moore, Joshua Walker, Bertram Burrell, Devin Crispin, Michael Farrell Jr.,
Luke Walton, John Ziegler, Charles Braham, Chad Camp, Gary Dunworth, Robert Green, Brandon Greening, Alexander Mattoon, Adam
Smith, Jared Syska, Gavin Veney, Dalton Zottola, Edward Gonzales, Francis Mason, Daniel Moffett, Timothy Ralston, Nicholas Carter, Aaron
Crable, Scott Platek, Stephen Sikora, Aaron Winters.
Diesel: Derek Weimer, Samson Blose, Jordan Myers, Steven Neal, Ryan Smith, Nicholas Zalepa, Elmer Bittinger, Matthew Whetshell, Richard Young, Dalton Kim, Matthew Nelson, Kevin Rock.
Electrical: Robert Rollins, Gunnar Roser, Angelic Smith, Mark Streily, Paul Wright, Logan Chappell, Robert Seaton.
Rosedale Ace-Cumulative GPA of 4.0 after at least one full semester.
Automotive: Joshua Flick, Archie Loughrey, David Roseneck, Marc Tatton, Ryan Butterworth, Meleik Carry, Charles Martin, Scott Dengler,
Brian Bakke, Seth Homison, Erik Johnson, Nathaniel Johnson, Perry Law, Justin Smith, Daniel Wolfe, Ryan Allen, Eric Benton, Joshua Johnson,
Lucas Jones, John Niederriter, Anthony Rumsey, Raymond Sanders.
Diesel: Luther Coe, Darren Forbes, Raymond Gegick, Brian Henze, Kurt Lavsa, Patrick Metcalfe, Lamont Moorer, David Smith, Manuel Vinas.
Electrical: Michael Henry, Codi Russell, Matthew Komaniak, Bradley Whitfield, James Yotz, John Brown, Thomas Ralston, Christopher
Baker, Gary Lowden, Jeremy Martin, Eric Rodgers, Wayne Valocik.
HVAC: Brandon Garvey, Glenn Kady, Raymond Baburich.
Student of the Month: Auto: Heath Knox, Diesel: Manuel Vinas, Electrical: James Yotz
Helping Hand Award: Justin Smith, John Brown, Dave Gillespie .
Extra Effort Award: Elmer Bittinger, Tim Ralston, Thomas Ralston, Luke Walton
Most Improved Award: Devin Crispin, Bob Seaton, Charles Casey
Community Service Award: Kevin Rock
New Students
August New Students:
Automotive Technology: Timothy Bell, Walter Clarit Sr., Andrew Detrick, Jacob Donovan, Robert Ferri, Bradley Frank, Matthew Fredley,
Shawn Greer, Cameron Ireland, Montere Johnson, Matthew King, Cole Koontz, Dennis Kopelic, Kamron Krull, Justin Logan, Matthew Majors,
Joshua McCool, Clayton Neel , Than Oo, Matthew Patton, Mikel Phillips, Michael Piemme, Shane Potetz, Adam Rodgers, Emilio Rodriguez,
Steven Schrecengost, Domenic Stanziano, Joshua Stevens, Christopher Stewart, Joseph Thiem, Wesley Thomas, Jerome Tria, Jonathan
Webb, Andrew Wilson, James Wolfe, Jonathan Yoho
Diesel Technology: Kyle Habedank, Nicholas Hoovler, Joshua Huff, Patrick Kelly, Krystal Knauff, Joshua Pachis, Giovanni Piergallini, Ryan
Popp, Anthony Rich, Joseph Sawinski, Ryan Scott, Kody Seiders, Ian Shearer, John Smith III, Zachary Teagarden, Jonathan Vanderhoof, Eric
Watterson
HVAC Technology: Peyton Harr, Shawn Hunter II, Justin Wilson
Automotive Technician: William Herndon Jr., Christopher Rosado, Lemuel Woodson III
Diesel Technician: Mark Hayes, Christopher Kulow, Jeremy Notzen, Thomas Spano Jr.
October New Students:
Automotive Technology: Daniel Agosh, Joshua Alford, Derius Curges, Christopher Hubbard, John Letavec, Lewis McDonald, Daniel Mormur,
Daniil Novitchi, Karl Polonoli, Raymond Seligman, Gregory Steinberger, Brandon Stumpf, Troy Trudeau, Melissa Wickline, Nicholas Homer,
Delores Johnson, Jeremy Sickler
Diesel Technology: Mark Acre, Christopher Barnes, Raymond Berry, David Ciafardone, Scott Dengler, Michael Farrell, Jordan Frank, William
Goerl, Dondre Gordon-Hale, Benjamin Hertweck, Brandon Iofido, Mark Lindsay, Patrick Malsch, Jared Meyer, Steven Mitchell, Ryan
Mueller, Patrick Smith, Brandon Zak
Electrical Technology: James Baker, Cody Boyde, John Calcara, Jesse Casto, Michael Dieteman, Jessica Lynn Jones, Matthew Jones, Gary
Martin, Nicholas Matotek, Matthew Meyers, John Mottiqua, Joshua Pershing, Matthew Porto, Samantha Rathbun, Cody Rossi, Bryer
Schrock, Frederick Smith, Ketih Starling, Frank Teamor, Shane Thompson, Cory Waigand
HVAC Technology: Brian Deroner, Patrick Reap
Automotive Technician: Darren Bane, Anthony Houk, Matthew Houk, Matthew Love, Brandon Lueckert
Diesel Technician: James Shoup, Sean Wilson
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The Circuit