OKLAHOMA CITY—Love’s Travel Stops has graduated its first class of level five diesel technicians through its recently launched Love’s Truck Care Academy in Amarillo, Texas, according to a news release.

Love’s Truck Care Academy is a five-week, paid training program to develop diesel technicians in seven heavy-duty systems with classroom and hands-on experience. Technicians learn how to diagnose, troubleshoot and repair issues commonly found in trucks. Upon graduation, technicians are placed at a Love’s Truck Care or Speedco location as a level five diesel technician. They’re also given a tool set valued at $3,500 to keep after a year on the job.

“Our team members are our No. 1 asset, and Love’s Truck Care Academy provides the tools and training needed to help those team members grow into the best in the industry,” said Gary Price, executive vice president of total truck solutions for Love’s. “The goal of the Academy is to best equip our team to get customers back on the road quickly and safely. This program is the first of its kind in the truck care industry, and we look forward to expanding it in the future.”

A second Love’s Truck Care Academy is scheduled to open later this year in El Reno, Oklahoma.

Love’s also offers its mechanic apprenticeship program, which allows apprentices to earn a competitive wage while working toward the designation of a diesel technician. Upon successful completion of the apprentice program, apprentices receive a tool kit to keep after one year of employment as a technician. Newly hired diesel technicians can make between $22 and $27 an hour plus commission.