On September 8–9, 2025, TriMet hosted its second session of the Fundamentals of Electrical Electronics (FEE) training for maintenance mechanics. This hands-on course, developed through a partnership between California Transit Works! (CTW) and the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU), is part of a U.S. Department of Labor H-1B Skills Training Grant aimed at up-skilling transit maintenance workers. Training was delivered by CTW’s own Russell Anderson and Dave Lawhorn, with assistance from Kevin Kinoshita and Rich Diaz of ATU.
The two-day training emphasized practical application, with approximately 80% of the time dedicated to hands-on exercises using training boards. Participants tackled around 42 troubleshooting scenarios, employing the "Texas 2 Step" method to diagnose and resolve issues in electronic circuits. The curriculum covered essential topics such as open circuits, voltage drops, and relay circuits, providing mechanics with a systematic approach to identifying faults.
Students responded enthusiastically, noting both the clarity of instruction and the relevance to their daily work. One participant described it as a “great intro into electricity” where the “instructors were clear and helpful.” Another called the training “very engaging, great to bring us back to the basics.” Others highlighted its practicality: “very enjoyable with plenty of info and teachings,” and “clear and helpful instructor, knowledgeable and helpful.”
Course attendees were members of ATU local 757 and included: Brenan Potter, Troy Worden, Ron Melby, Elias Corona, Carl Wyatt, Matt Croper, Perry Puckett, and William Colwell
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On September 4th and 5th, staff from California Transit Works! (CTW) and the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) conducted a two-day training session at TriMet Transit Agency’s Powell Bus Yard Facility. The training was designed specifically for ATU 757 bus mechanics who work at TriMet, focusing on the Fundamentals of Electrical and Electronic (FEE) as part of a U.S. Department of Labor H1B grant initiative.
Lead Instructor Russell Anderson (CTW), supported by Dave Lawhorn (CTW) and Kevin Kinoshita (ATU), guided participants through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on learning. The interactive approach allowed mechanics to deepen their understanding of electrical and electronic systems, while also practicing practical troubleshooting methods directly related to their work on buses. The training was very well received, with students expressing strong appreciation for the content, instruction, and real-world application. Many participants highlighted the value of standardizing the thought process for diagnosing and solving electrical problems—an essential skill set in maintaining the safety and efficiency of transit fleets.
A second session is scheduled in the coming days for another group of mechanics, ensuring broader participation and reinforcing consistent standards across TriMet’s workforce. This ongoing effort demonstrates the commitment of CTW, ATU International, ATU 757 and TriMet to investing in professional development and building a highly skilled transit maintenance workforce.  Attendees included Matthew Davis, Mark Hanks, Daniel Rodriguez, Collin Dow, Andrew Passero, and Christopher Tyson
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California Transit Works!
PO Box 83
Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
EMAIL: [email protected]
© COPYRIGHT 2025. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.