Engine specialist DiPerk has launched a new in-house training course to give non-technical team members a stronger grasp of core engine principles, bridging the skills gap and enhancing technical competency across the company.

DiPerk Power Solutions, the UK’s sole authorised distributor of Perkins® engines, has developed the two-part course, involving classroom and hands-on training, to help non-technical team members get to grips with a Perkins 404 engine.

Gavin Lester, Head of Service Operations at DiPerk, who also designed the course, said: “We developed this course primarily to address the growing skills gap in the power solution industry. The course has already been attended by three of our Field Service Controllers, with more signed up to take part in the coming months. By enhancing technical competency across the company, we are ensuring that our customers get the best service, advice and support.

“The classroom training enhances the technical understanding of engines, their components and their functions. During this session participants were taught the fundamentals of Perkins engines and given the opportunity to examine the engine parts to get a better understanding of their roles. This session also covered subjects such as engine management, fuel injection, cooling, and aftertreatment systems, as well as some insight into industry regulations. The classroom session culminated in a closed book assessment, which all participants passed.

“The second session of the course was a workshop-based training session, whereby participants were able to get hands-on with a Perkins 404 engine. They were challenged to complete a pre-task assessment to identify the job and potential risks before removing the water pump for inspection. They then removed the cylinder head to measure the cylinders using a dial gauge, refitted the cylinder head, torquing the bolts and adjusting the tappets.

“By giving our non-technical team members the chance to enhance their knowledge, we are simultaneously bridging the internal skills gap and addressing the demand for technical expertise in the industry. Perkins engines serve a wide range of sectors, and at DiPerk we support the versatility of these engines with expert advice, service and support to our customers. That is why we are continuing to enhance the technical expertise of everyone in the company, with the view that as technologies change, we can adapt the training to meet the needs of changing industries.”