WSU Tech, Foley Equipment Open ThinkBIG Lab to Expand Technician Training Pipeline

WSU Tech and Foley Equipment have officially opened a new ThinkBIG Lab at WSU Tech’s City Center Campus, expanding hands-on training opportunities for students pursuing careers as heavy equipment technicians.

The nearly 4,000-square-foot lab features engine and transmission teardown stations, giving students a real-world learning environment that mirrors today’s industry settings.

The ThinkBIG program, developed by Caterpillar, is a nationally recognized technician training initiative delivered through a network of colleges and dealerships. At WSU Tech, the program is offered in partnership with Foley Equipment, the Caterpillar dealer serving Kansas and northwest Missouri.

Students in the program are employed by Foley Equipment and participate in a structured earn-while-you-learn model. They split their time between classroom instruction and hands-on field experience, working alongside industry professionals while earning a paycheck. Drawing participants from across the region, the program is helping build a strong pipeline of skilled technicians ready to meet growing industry demand.

Currently, 21 students are enrolled in the program, with nine set to graduate this spring and transition into full-time roles at Foley Equipment. An additional 27 students have committed to begin the program this fall, many of whom recently participated in a Signing Day event celebrating their decision.

“I’m proud to be part of this program,” said John Jenkins, a soon-to-be graduate of the ThinkBIG program. “The support from WSU Tech and the experience with Foley Equipment have helped me grow as both a student and a technician.”

In addition to paid, hands-on training, students may receive tuition support and a professional-grade toolkit valued at approximately $14,000, helping reduce financial barriers while preparing them for long-term careers.

Dr. Sheree Utash, president of WSU Tech, said the new lab represents a continued investment in workforce training aligned with industry needs.

“We are grateful for our partnership with Foley Equipment and the opportunities it creates for our students,” said Utash. “By combining paid training, industry support, and direct employment pathways, this program creates access to high-demand careers for students who may not have otherwise pursued them.”

Ann Konecny, president and CEO of Foley Equipment, emphasized the importance of investing in the next generation of technicians.

“Our business depends on the excellence of our people, and that starts with investing in the next generation,” said Konecny. “Through the Caterpillar ThinkBIG program and our partnership with WSU Tech, participants gain the experience and skills needed to deliver the very best for our customers and enjoy long-term careers with us.”

The ThinkBIG Lab will serve as a central hub for classroom instruction, complementing the on-the-job training students receive through their rotations with Foley Equipment. Together, the program and facility are designed to address the growing demand for skilled technicians across the heavy equipment industry.

Students graduate from the program with an associate degree, real-world experience, and a direct pathway into full-time employment, positioning them for long-term careers with opportunities for advancement.

For more information about the ThinkBIG program at WSU Tech in partnership with Foley Equipment, visit wsutech.edu/thinkbig