January 6, 2026
Corporate News
Takeuchi-US, in partnership with United Rentals, has donated the use of six Takeuchi machines to the diesel technology program at WyoTech in Laramie, Wyoming. WyoTech is a private trade school that specializes in automotive, diesel, collision/refinishing and welding technologies.
The donation comes at a time when the construction and rental sectors, as well as the broader equipment industry, are finding it challenging to recruit and retain qualified technicians. According to an Associated Equipment Distributors (AED) industry report, the sector will need to fill up to 73,500 heavy equipment technician positions over the next five years, and nearly 90% of AED member dealerships report job opening rates above the national average, with 89% noting technician shortages in their own companies.
The three Takeuchi TL8R2 compact track loaders and three TB216 compact excavators will be used as part of WyoTech’s diesel and heavy equipment training curriculum, allowing students to train on current machine models and systems they will encounter in the field. The Takeuchi machines used in the program will be rotated on a regular basis to expose students to a variety of models, features and applications.
“By working with current-generation Takeuchi equipment, students gain hands-on experience with the same technology used on today’s job sites,” said Derek Koontz, national account manager for Takeuchi. “Rotating the machines allows students to work on different models and applications, helping them build confidence and diagnostic skills that translate directly to real-world service and repair environments.”
WyoTech’s training model emphasizes hands-on learning, industry relevance and strong employer partnerships — an approach that has helped graduates transition successfully into diesel technician roles nationwide.
“Our success comes from keeping students in the shop, learning by doing, with a curriculum shaped directly by employer needs,” said Cindy Barlow, director of industry relations for WyoTech. “Having access to brand-new Takeuchi compact track loaders and excavators allows students to train on modern hydraulics, electronics, diagnostics and service procedures, not outdated technology. That experience prepares them to step into technician roles from day one.”
United Rentals played a key role in bringing the partnership together, aligning the donation with its focus on workforce development and equipment reliability.
“Training the next generation of technicians is critical for the rental industry,” said Keith Pearson, skilled trades program manager for United Rentals. “Well-trained technicians keep equipment rental-ready, reduce downtime and improve safety on jobsites. Partnering with a respected manufacturer like Takeuchi and a trade school like WyoTech helps ensure students develop the skills our industry depends on.”
Pearson noted that Takeuchi was a natural fit for the initiative, citing the manufacturer’s strong presence in United Rentals’ fleet and its commitment to the Takeuchi Gives charitable-giving program that continues to support community colleges and trade schools.
For WyoTech students, the partnership creates a direct connection between training and employment. Students will practice preventive maintenance, fault-code troubleshooting, engine performance testing, CAN-bus diagnostics and OEM service procedures using the donated equipment.
“Industry partnerships are not just beneficial — they are essential,” Barlow added. “When companies like Takeuchi and United Rentals invest their time, resources and trust in our students, they’re investing directly in the future of the skilled trades and the strength of the workforce.”
The collaboration reflects a shared commitment among Takeuchi, United Rentals and WyoTech to support workforce development and ensure the next generation of technicians is prepared for the evolving demands of modern equipment.
For more information about Takeuchi track loaders, excavators and wheel loaders, or to find a dealer near you, visit . Follow Takeuchi-US on , , or .
About Takeuchi
Takeuchi is an ISO 9001 certified manufacturer of an extensive line of compact track loaders, compact excavators, compact wheel loaders, and skid steer loaders. Founded in 1963, Takeuchi was the first company to introduce the compact excavator to North America, setting the stage for one of the highest growth product segments ever introduced in the compact equipment market. The compact excavator has become a main line product for both rental and construction/utility companies. Takeuchi continued to lead the compact construction industry with the introduction of the first compact track loader to North America.
About United Rentals
United Rentals, Inc. is the largest equipment rental company in the world. The company has an integrated network of 1,639 rental locations in North America, 41 in Europe, 40 in Australia and 19 in New Zealand. In North America, the company operates in 49 states and every Canadian province. The company’s approximately 27,900 employees serve construction and industrial customers, utilities, municipalities, homeowners and others. The company offers a fleet of equipment for rent with a total original cost of $22.82 billion. URI is a member of the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index, the Barron’s 400 Index and the Russell 3000 Index® and is headquartered in Stamford, Conn.
About WyoTech
WyoTech started in Laramie, Wyoming, with a single goal: to provide focused, industry-driven training for students ready to enter the workforce. Over the decades, WyoTech has evolved, adapting to industry needs while keeping our core mission intact: preparing students for real-world careers. WyoTech’s nine-month programs are designed to get students into the workforce quickly, with eight-hour training schedules five days a week that mirror professional expectations. Employers consistently say WyoTech graduates stand out for their technical skills, work ethic, professionalism and adaptability.
For more information, please contact:
Lynette Von Minden, Swanson Russell
Phone:
Stephen Odum, Takeuchi-US
Phone:
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