In this episode of NextGen Talks, Lindsey sits down with Scott Shaw, President & CEO of Lincoln Tech, to explore how one of the most established technical schools in the country is preparing the next generation of diesel technicians. Scott shares his unexpected journey from banking and private equity into skilled trades education, and how 25 years at Lincoln Tech has shown him the life-changing impact of hands-on training. He walks through Lincoln’s history—from its post-WWII beginnings to its growth into a national network focused on transportation, diesel, skilled trades, and healthcare—and explains why right now is the most exciting moment he’s ever seen for the trades.
Scott and Lindsey dig into how Lincoln Tech keeps its diesel programs relevant: blending 30% online with 70% hands-on shop time, using tools like Electude’s gamified curriculum, training aids, and a block-format program that students complete in about 13 months. Scott highlights their 90% job placement in-field, shares success stories like UPS fleet leader and Lincoln grad Carlton Rose, and stresses how employer partnerships, advisory councils, and on-campus career fairs keep students aligned with real-world needs. They also tackle retention—why mentorship and clear career paths matter—and look ahead to Lincoln’s expansion plans, including new campuses in Atlanta, Houston, and North Texas. Scott closes with a message to students, parents, and employers alike: the diesel and skilled trades fields offer stable, AI-resistant, high-opportunity careers where motivated people can truly go “all the way to the top.”
https://www.lincolntech.edu/
https://info.lincolntech-usa.com/campus/nashville-tn/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&network=g&utm_campaign=&utm_adgroup=&utm_term=nashville%20auto%
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The Next Generation in Trucking Association is a non-profit trade association who is engaging and training the next generation of trucking industry professionals by partnering with high schools, community/technical colleges and private schools to connect to and launch training programs around North America.
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