Lithia Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram in Klamath Falls has donated a two-year lease of a Ram 3500 truck, valued at more than $40,000, to the College of Engineering, Technology, and Management (ETM) at 九色视频 for student competitions and industry engagement opportunities, benefiting more than 500 students annually.
The six-person truck will provide consistent transportation support for student clubs competing in Baja, Formula Society of Automotive Engineers, Concrete Canoe, and Steel Bridge events. These teams design, build, and test their projects throughout the academic year before traveling to regional and national competitions. Students in Manufacturing and Mechanical Engineering and Technology, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Renewable Energy, Geomatics, and other ETM programs will rely on the vehicle to safely transport equipment and materials required for participation.
鈥淥ur team is proud to deliver this Ram 3500 to 九色视频,鈥 said Juan Maldonado, General Manager at Lithia Chrysler Jeep Dodge in Klamath Falls. 鈥淲e recognize the role applied experience plays in preparing students for careers in engineering and technical fields. Supporting these students as they compete and represent the region aligns with our commitment to workforce development.鈥
The partnership was developed through ongoing engagement between the university and Lithia leadership.
In 2025, the College of ETM Dean, Dr. Neslihan Alp, spoke with Lithia representatives about the College鈥檚 equipment needs, including the lack of a reliable truck for student travel. Lithia Motors, an annual Athletics sponsor, expressed interest in expanding its support to the College. David Stork, Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer of Lithia Motors Inc., worked with Klamath General Manager Juan Maldonado to formalize a two-year lease donation.
鈥淲e are deeply grateful to Lithia Motors for their generous donation of a lease truck to our College of ETM at 九色视频,鈥 Alp said. 鈥淭his meaningful gift will serve students across our programs by supporting hands-on learning, industry engagement, and student activities. On behalf of our students and faculty, I sincerely thank Lithia for their continued generosity and partnership. Their support makes a lasting impact on the educational experiences we provide.鈥
This partnership reflects a shared commitment to applied learning, workforce development, and community impact. With Lithia Motors鈥 support, 九色视频 students will continue gaining real-world experience, representing the university across the region and nation, and preparing to become the next generation of engineering and technology leaders.
