Great Basin College is thrilled to announce it has been awarded $402,870 in Nevada Tech Hub Round 2 funding to expand its Diesel Technology program into the rapidly growing field of Electric Vehicle (EV) systems.
This significant funding builds upon a $100,000 grant received from General Motors earlier this year, totaling over half a million dollars dedicated to modernizing workforce development at the Elko, Ely, and Winnemucca campuses. By integrating an EV credential into the existing Diesel Technology curriculum, GBC is ensuring that Nevada’s technicians are prepared for an industry that increasingly relies on both internal combustion and electrified platforms.
Beginning in Spring 2027, the new coursework will equip students with essential skills in EV architecture, battery chemistry, and high-voltage safety procedures. The funding will support the purchase of specialized equipment, including EV training vehicles, battery pack trainers, and advanced diagnostic tools.
These resources will allow students to gain hands-on experience in fully equipped labs, preparing them to earn the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) L3 EV Technician certification. This certification validates a technician's ability to safely diagnose and repair the high-voltage systems found in modern industrial and mining equipment.
This expansion directly addresses the surging demand for skilled labor within Nevada’s lithium loop and the broader electrification of the mining sector. With the electric mining vehicle market projected to grow significantly by 2050, GBC graduates will be uniquely positioned to fill high-wage roles in nonmetropolitan Nevada, where average hourly wages for these specialized technicians often exceed national averages.
By aligning training with the needs of industry partners like Lithium Americas and General Motors, Great Basin College continues to provide career pathways that support both the regional economy and the transition to renewable energy.
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To learn more about Great Basin College's Diesel Technology program, contact Dave Stoddard, Dean of Industrial Technology & Workforce Development: david.stoddard@gbcnv.edu