For the second year in a row, Alan Anderson of RDO Truck Centers earned first place and will go on to represent Nebraska at the National SuperTech competition, hosted by the American Trucking Associations’ Technology & Maintenance Council, September 14–18 in Raleigh, North Carolina. Douglas Beck of Truck Center Companies placed second and received the First Time Attendee Award, while Isaac Bittner from Southeast Community College took third.
In the student division, Isaac Bittner claimed top honors, followed by Schuyler Eatherton of Central Community College in second, and Jon Grovijohn of Metropolitan Community College in third.
Each station was designed to mirror real-world challenges faced in the shop. From electrical issues to power steering diagnostics, competitors were pushed to apply both theory and hands-on experience. One station, based on a recurring idle electrical system issue from a Crete Carrier truck, tested competitors’ ability to correctly diagnose and avoid common missteps.
Each station winner also received a $100 cash prize, adding an extra layer of recognition for technical excellence.
The 10 stations and winners included:
Electrical – Colin Magdanz, Truck Center Companies
Precision Measurement – Alan Anderson, RDO Truck Centers
Vehicle Inspection (supported by Sgt. Huhman and Trooper Adams of the Nebraska State Patrol) – Colin Magdanz, Truck Center Companies
Drive Train – Colin Magdanz, Truck Center Companies
Shop Safety – Schuyler Eatherton, Central Community College
Advanced Electrical – Alan Anderson, RDO Truck Centers
Opt Idle – Steven Weber, Crete Carrier Corporation
Power Steering – Alan Anderson, RDO Truck Centers
Transmission – Isaac Bittner, Southeast Community College
Wheel End – Isaac Bittner, Southeast Community College
Central Community College in Hastings has generously hosted the Nebraska SuperTech competition many times. The event is organized each year by Jerry Wessel of the Nebraska Trucking Association (NTA), in collaboration with the NTA’s Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC). Special thanks go to Bill McKay, TMC chair, for his key role in developing hands-on stations that reflect real-world challenges technicians face on the job.
The Nebraska Trucking Association thanks all sponsors, volunteers, and industry partners who make SuperTech possible each year. Their support helps highlight the critical role diesel technicians play in keeping the trucking industry moving safely and efficiently.