MARIETTA, OHIO — Balancing full-time work with college studies is no small feat, but Kail Bauerbach is proving that determination and hard work can make it possible. As a Diesel Truck Systems student at Washington State College of Ohio (WSCO), he is gaining the technical skills and hands-on experience necessary to excel in the industry while also managing a full-time job.
Beginning his educational journey at WSCO his junior year in high school, Bauerbach had the opportunity to complete introductory-level diesel truck systems courses in addition to his high school course work. Bauerbach decided to continue his degree path at WSCO after high school graduation and focus on a degree in Diesel Truck Systems.
Gary Smith, Auto and Diesel instructor at WSCO, shares that Bauerbach’s commitment to returning to finish his education is admirable in his eyes. “Kail is the type of student who strives for perfection and doesn’t give up. Kail first came to WSCO as a CCP student in high school and has been adamant about completing his education ever since,” says Smith.
Bauerbach currently maintains a full-time position at Tracy’s Mobile Mechanical Services, where he performs repairs and maintenance on cars, trucks, and semi-trucks. Smith acknowledges that Bauerbach is a very hardworking student in and out of the classroom. “Kail comes from an agricultural background in farming. He not only works on the farm, but also maintains a full-time automotive and truck repair technician position with a local repair facility, all while completing his education,” comments Smith.
Bauerbach shares that one of the most enjoyable parts of being a Diesel Truck Systems student at WSCO is getting to work closely with Auto and Diesel instructors Ryan Moore and Gary Smith, as he has not only learned a lot from them but has also formed personal relationships with them. “I’ve appreciated my time in class with Ryan and Gary. They have a deep understanding of the subjects they teach and are always ready to go the extra mile to support you. After spending so much time learning from them, I have a great deal of respect for both of them,” shares Bauerbach.
Bauerbach is set to graduate from WSCO in May 2025 and looks forward to finding a higher-up position in the automotive industry. “I love what I am doing at Tracy’s Mobile Mechanical Services, so I would like to do something similar after I earn my degree, but potentially in a higher-paying position. I am hoping to eventually find a more managerial position in the field,” says Bauerbach. Smith believes that Bauerbach’s go-getter attitude will take him far in life and help him achieve his professional goals. “Kail’s warm personality, positive attitude, work ethic, and willingness to learn and excel make him extremely employable and a quality asset to any company,” shares Smith.
