Memorial Scholarship Helps Diesel Tech Students

Dave Miller Sr. was known within the company not only as a gifted diesel technician, but a teacher of the trade. He constantly mentored the new techs in the shop, teaching them all the tricks he learned as well as offering life lessons.

It’s because of his legacy that we pay tribute to Dave’s memory through the Dave “Diesel Dog” Miller Memorial Scholarship Fund, now in its second year. The scholarship honors Dave by helping diesel technician students with tuition.

Inaugural Winner

Zack Crain, a mechanic with the Camas School District and student at Clark College’s diesel technician program, was the first recipient of Dave’s scholarship last year. In Zack’s application he wrote, “Dave Miller sounds like the kind of guy I would really get along with and to be awarded this scholarship would be an honor.”

Zack talked in his application of his lifelong passion for all things mechanical. He spoke of pursuing his interests in the marine and railroad industries after graduating and that he eventually wants to rise to management so that he can teach others. That sentiment is especially true to the spirit of Dave’s scholarship.

The scholarship came at an important point in Zack’s diesel tech program. He and his wife had just purchased a home and money was tight. He was constantly having to borrow tools from others, making it difficult at times for him to keep up with his course work. The scholarship allowed Zack to buy tools critical to continuing his education and receiving his diesel tech certification.

Dave’s Legacy

Dan Miller, PPG Off-Highway Service Manager and Dave’s son, said as much joy as his father got from working on diesel engines, he got even more satisfaction from passing along his knowledge to new techs.

Apply for the Scholarship

The deadline is March 29, 2019. Interested candidates can find the online application here.