Investing in the Next Generation of Small Engine Technicians

At Coltrain Home & Hardware, our service department may have seemed quiet from the outside, but behind the scenes we have been hard at work building something bigger than repairs. We are investing in the future of the small engine industry right here in Pitt County.

As many industries continue to face a shortage of qualified technicians, the demand for skilled small engine repair professionals continues to grow. Instead of simply talking about the problem, we decided to become part of the solution.

That is why Pitt Community College, STIHL, and Coltrain Home & Hardware have partnered together to create a hands-on training opportunity for high school and community college students interested in the power equipment industry.

Last month, we joined forces with STIHL representatives and Pitt Community College Continuing Education to introduce students to real-world small engine repair and service operations. Through this partnership, students are able to expand their knowledge through hands-on learning experiences while also working toward official STIHL certifications.

Beginning this year, Coltrain Hardware will take in two students annually to help train and educate the next generation of technicians. Students will gain experience in:

• Small engine repair
• Parts management
• Customer service and sales
• Equipment diagnostics
• STIHL certification training

This program is designed to prepare students for careers within the extensive STIHL dealer network, which includes more than 55,000 dealers across 160 countries worldwide.

For us, this is about more than equipment repair. It is about creating opportunities for young people in our community, supporting workforce development, and helping preserve the skilled trades that keep communities running.

We are proud to currently have three Silver Certified Technicians and four Bronze Technicians serving our customers at Coltrain Hardware. Whether you need maintenance, repairs, diagnostics, or seasonal tune-ups, our team is committed to helping keep your equipment running at its best.

If you would like to support this program and help encourage the future of skilled trades in Pitt County, we encourage you to share this story with your friends and family. And if you have STIHL equipment needing service, bring it by Coltrain Home & Hardware and let our certified technicians help get your equipment back in top shape.

We are incredibly thankful for the partnership and support from Pitt Community College and STIHL as we work together to create meaningful opportunities for students and strengthen the future workforce of our community.