On this episode of NextGen Talks, I sat down with Scott Shaw, President & CEO of Lincoln Technical Institute, to discuss the future of skilled trades, diesel technology education, and the growing demand for hands-on careers in America.
From Banking to Diesel Tech: Scott Shaw’s Unexpected Path
Scott Shaw never expected to spend nearly 25 years at Lincoln Tech. His career began in banking and private equity, but in 2001 he transitioned to Lincoln as CFO. Over the years, he took on multiple leadership roles before becoming President and CEO.
What changed his trajectory?
“In banking, you’re just pushing paper around,” Scott shared. “But in the trades, you actually touch things, fix things, and see lives change.”
That sense of purpose — helping students build real careers — is what kept him in the skilled trades education world.
A Legacy Built on Hands-On Training
Lincoln Tech’s roots stretch back to just after World War II, when founder Warren Davies saw returning veterans struggling to find work. He launched Lincoln with two emerging technologies of the time: automatic transmissions and home air conditioning.
Today, Lincoln Tech offers training in:
- Diesel Technology
- Automotive Technology
- Collision Repair
- Welding
- HVAC
- Machining & CNC
- Electrical
- Healthcare programs (LPN, Medical Assisting)
But transportation remains at the heart of the institution.
The brand also includes the historic Nashville Auto Diesel College, now 106 years old and recently moved into a new state-of-the-art facility.
A Shift in Culture: Young People Choosing Trades
Both Next Gen Trucking and Lincoln Tech saw something new at this year’s FFA Convention: more students wanting trades—not traditional college.
Scott sees this trend nationwide:
“Parents are starting to say, ‘College might not be the right path — my kid wants to work with their hands.’”
This cultural shift is opening doors for more students to consider careers as diesel technicians, CDL drivers, and logistics professionals.
Training for a Technology-Driven Industry
Today’s trucks are rolling computers. Lincoln Tech prepares students through a combination of:
✔ 30% Online Learning + 70% Hands-On Training
This gives flexibility for students who work or support families, while keeping the hands-on core intact.
✔ Laptop Issued to Every Student
Because every technician needs digital literacy.
✔ Partnership with Electude
A training system built for digital-age learners — interactive, gamified, and discovery-based.
✔ A Three-Step Training Model
- Learn theory online
- Practice concepts using training boards and interactive modules
- Apply skills on live equipment in the shop
This structure helps students become confident and job-ready.
Diesel Tech Locations & Program Length
Lincoln Tech offers diesel tech programs in:
- East Windsor, CT
- South Plainfield, NJ
- Indianapolis, IN
- Denver, CO
- Dallas, TX
- Nashville Auto Diesel College (TN)
The program is 13 months long, with no traditional breaks — designed to get students into the workforce faster.
Student Success Stories: From Shop Floor to Leadership
Scott shared powerful examples of graduates who launched incredible careers:
- Carlton Rose (UPS) – Started as a part-time package handler, trained as a diesel tech at Lincoln, and eventually became the executive overseeing every vehicle in UPS’s global fleet.
- Billy White – Now a prominent leader in the Tennessee Trucking Association.
- Homer Hogg – Former head of training at TravelCenters of America.
Many alumni start as entry-level diesel techs and grow into supervisors, trainers, fleet directors, or even entrepreneurs.
What Makes Lincoln Tech Different?
According to Scott, the difference is culture.
“We’re supportive, we’re approachable, and we care. If a student doesn’t show up, we call — not to punish them, but to help them.”
Lincoln also emphasizes attendance because employers care deeply about reliability. Their approach results in a 90% job placement rate in-field.
Employer Partnerships & Career Fairs
Lincoln Tech works closely with the industry by:
- Bringing employers in every six months to review curriculum
- Offering feedback on industry trends
- Hosting career fairs with anywhere from 2 to 100+ employers
- Helping students with resumes and interview preparation
- Connecting students with employers that match their long-term goals
Next Gen Trucking has partnered with Lincoln on multiple employer connections — and the feedback from fleets has been excellent.
Retention: What Employers Are Missing
Retention is a challenge across diesel and trucking. Scott believes the biggest issue is mentorship.
“Companies hire new technicians, drop them into the shop, and hope for the best. Young people need coaching, feedback, and a clear path.”
Entry-level technicians stay longer when companies:
- Pair them with experienced mentors
- Provide structured onboarding
- Offer clear advancement pathways
- Build a positive culture
This aligns with what we at Next Gen Trucking see nationwide.
Enrollment, Relocation, and How to Connect
Lincoln Tech’s average student is 25, but about 20% come straight from high school. Most students commute, and only about 10% relocate to attend school.
Students and parents can explore programs at
👉 lincolntech.edu
Employers can reach out to any campus’s Director of Career Services to discuss hiring needs and partnership opportunities.
Looking Ahead: Expansion & Growth
Lincoln Tech is expanding aggressively to meet national workforce needs:
- New campus in Atlanta (South)
- New campus in Houston (with possible diesel tech addition)
- New North Texas campus coming soon
- Plans to open 2 new campuses per year for the next 4–5 years
The demand for diesel technicians continues to rise, especially as seasoned techs retire and fewer people pursue hands-on careers.
Final Thoughts
Scott closed with an important reminder:
“Whether at Lincoln Tech or somewhere else, we need more people entering the trades. It’s a great career, and the opportunity is huge.”
At Next Gen Trucking, we couldn’t agree more. The next generation of diesel technicians will play a critical role in supporting America’s supply chain — and schools like Lincoln Tech are helping pave the way.