Advanced Transportation Program Receives Propane Fuel Truck Donation from CoEnergy of Corvallis

1991 Chevy Kodiak Propane Fueled Truck

Automotive instructor Bryan Schiedler,
left, and CoEnergy manager Randy Camp.

CoEnergy Propane of Corvallis recently donated a propane fuel truck to Linn-Benton Community College’s Advanced Transportation program.

The truck, a 1991 Chevy Kodiak, will be used as a training vehicle for students in the program to learn about alternative fuel systems.

“It is our pleasure to work with LBCC on their new venture,” said Randy Camp, general manager of CoEnergy Propane. “Donating a propane-powered truck to help promote the training of LBCC students in the use of propane as a motor fuel can only benefit our community and the State of Oregon. As an Oregon owned and operated company, we want to do what we can to revitalize the local economy and bring Oregon back to where it belongs. We hope that this will help promote the use of propane and all alternative fuels in our area, and not only save other Oregon companies transportation dollars, but also promote and help improve our environment.” 

Although it is not the latest in propane fuel technology, the truck will serve as an example for students to compare with newer systems, as well as learn how to troubleshoot an older system.

“It’s good to have some of the older equipment, as well as the new,” said Bryan Schiedler, LBCC automotive technology instructor.

The key about alternative fuel vehicles, says Schiedler, is that although the engine is powered by something different, the rest of the systems are the same as gasoline powered vehicles, so students will apply the same skills to work on those systems as with any other vehicle.

Besides being used to build troubleshooting skills in students, the truck, says Schiedler, will be used as a reference vehicle for converting gas trucks to alternative fuel systems.

“Propane is the third most used motor fuel in the world behind gasoline and diesel fuel,” said Camp. “This is a small step in helping Oregon move it that direction as well. We are looking forward to working with Bryan [Schiedler] and all of his staff and students on making this venture a shining star in the training and advancement of alternative fuel use in Oregon.”