Love’s Truck Care Academy recently launched in Amarillo, where it graduated its first class of level five diesel technicians.

According to a news release, the five-week, in-residency training program grows the skill set of newly hired Love’s Truck Care and Speedco diesel technicians, so they can provide industry-leading service to customers.

The academy is a paid, accelerated training program to develop diesel technicians in seven heavy-duty systems with classroom and hands-on experience, the release says. 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 that’s theirs to keep after a year on the job.

“Our team members are our number one 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, in the release. “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.”

Love’s Travel Stops is one of the nation’s leading travel stop networks, with more than 580 locations in 41 states. Love’s has over 420 truck service centers, which include Speedco and Love’s Truck Care locations. Founded in 1964 and headquartered in Oklahoma City, the company remains family-owned and operated and employs more than 36,000 people.

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

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

Those interested in a career at Love’s can visit jobs.loves.com.

To learn more, visit loves.com or follow the company on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn or Twitter.

This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Love’s launches Truck Care Academy, graduates first class in Amarillo