BLYTHEWOOD, S.C. (May 2, 2011) — When Navistar, Inc. created its Pure Power Technologies, LLC affiliate more than a year ago, the company committed itself to investing in the South Carolina business community for a long time to come. Today, company officials discussed the many ways they’ve made good on that promise with investments in the present and future of South Carolina.

At a ceremony attended by local and state officials, company representatives said they have created more than 283 new jobs since January 2010 and plan to add more in the months ahead. In addition, Navistar launched plans to partner with Richland One School District to offer a unique program to equip high school students to be truck and diesel engine technicians.

“We’re proud to have added jobs here in South Carolina,” said Houman Kashanipour, president, Pure Power Technologies. “These aren’t just any jobs either. They are highly-skilled, innovative roles that are designing and building the future of our industry.” To equip current and future Pure Power employees with required skills, Kashanipour explained the company has designed programs and made investments to train and develop talent.

The new education program, which represents an investment up to $450,000 by Navistar and its Navistar Foundation, will train sophomores, juniors and seniors at Richland One School District’s Heyward Career & Technology Center in Columbia, S.C., to become certified diesel engine technicians. Navistar is a leading producer of diesel trucks, school buses and engines and has a history of supporting the communities where its facilities are located.

“At Navistar, we believe in being a good neighbor—wherever we do business. And South Carolina is no exception,” said Eric Tech, president, Navistar Engine Group. “Already, our employees here are contributing to the community in a meaningful way by supporting places like Palmetto Health and the Harvest Hope Food Bank. Now, we are elevating that commitment by establishing a distinctive diesel technician training program that will prepare today’s high school students for tomorrow’s jobs.”

When the program starts in January 2012, students will work in state-of-the-art labs and classrooms to prepare for college or for high-paying careers in the truck and diesel engine industry. They’re also looking towards a bright future as they begin a three-year journey in one of the most unique technical education programs for teens in the country. With the new program’s debut, it will join three other similar programs located in Illinois and Indiana.

"We are truly honored to be selected for this partnership with Navistar. This serves as the beginning of a great collaboration that will allow Richland One students to pursue a career in the area of diesel technology,” said Sherry Rivers, principal, Heyward Career & Technical Center. “We look forward to being part of this historic relationship that will make a positive impact on the local, state and national levels for many years to come."
The South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce considers the occupations of bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists to have a “bright outlook” in South Carolina and expects there will be continued demand for these jobs.

“Trucks and buses are some of the most advanced vehicles on the road today; technicians servicing these vehicles use problem solving skills, mathematics and science every day,” said Richard “Dick” Ryan, president and CEO of Carolina International Trucks of Columbia, S.C. “There is a huge demand for qualified truck and diesel technicians across the country.”

Successful graduates of the program are eligible to receive an annual scholarship from the Ernest E. Stinsa, Jr. Scholarship Fund, designed to further promote the importance of higher education. Ernest E. Stinsa, Jr., a former Navistar employee, was the “godfather” of the program, shepherding it from concept to a successful launch before passing away in December 2007.

About Pure Power Technologies

Pure Power Technologies vertically integrates research and development, engineering, manufacturing and metal casting capabilities to produce world-class diesel power systems, advanced emissions control systems and industrial metal castings. Based in Columbia, S.C., Pure Power Technologies operates a research and development center there, a manufacturing plant in nearby Blythewood, S.C., a research and development center in Bowling Green, Ky., and metal casting foundries in Waukesha, Wis., and Indianapolis. With the recent Eaton aftertreatment technology deal, Pure Power now also operates a research and development facility in Santa Clara, Calif. For more information, visit www.PurePowerTechnologies.com.

About Navistar

Navistar International Corporation (NYSE: NAV) is a holding company whose subsidiaries and affiliates produce International® brand commercial and military trucks, MaxxForce® brand diesel engines, IC Bus™ brand school and commercial buses, Monaco® RV brands of recreational vehicles, and Workhorse® brand chassis for motor homes and steps vans. It also is a private-label designer and manufacturer of diesel engines for the pickup truck, van and SUV markets. The company also provides truck and diesel engine service parts. Another affiliate offers financing services. Additional information is available at www.navistar.com/newsroom. 

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