Paul Decker found his way into diesel mechanics in a roundabout way: by driving a school bus.
His initial career path started at the University of Florida, where Decker earned a master’s degree in forest resources and conservation while conducting research and fieldwork. Then in 2020, when COVID-19 hit and funding disappeared, he started working with his hands installing cabinetry.
Decker switched gears again when his wife was offered a job at a television station in Springfield. They took a leap of faith, moving from the East Coast to the Midwest to pursue new opportunities.
Decker’s priority was finding a job of his own, and returning to conservation seemed unlikely. Research jobs are “like finding a needle in a haystack,” Decker said, especially when considering a cross-country move. “The trades are utilitarian, so there was a wealth of opportunity waiting for me.”
Decker knew from a young age that he preferred an active job and did not want to be parked behind a desk. His first gig in Missouri as a school bus driver sparked an interest in diesel mechanics.
Spending his days behind the wheel of a large, diesel-powered vehicle changed how he saw his future. “It was my foot in the door into the diesel world,” Decker said. “I realized I liked working on vehicles more than I liked driving them.”
To move from the driver’s seat to the shop floor quickly, he enrolled at Ozarks Tech in 2023. Decker worked full-time as a service technician while earning a certificate through the Diesel Technology Program.
The instructors Decker learned from had decades of experience, knew the ins and outs of the diesel industry, and did not hesitate to share the secrets of the trade. Far from being intimidated, he leaned into it.
“When I’m in school, I’m like a sponge,” he said. “I want to soak everything up. I liked that I could go to school and work full-time.”
The Ozarks Tech diesel lab houses a variety of modern chassis and engines from top brands like Kenworth, Peterbilt, Mack and Freightliner. Technicians who work for a dealership can specialize, but a fleet requires a breadth of knowledge. The college prepares students for both paths by keeping up with advancements in curriculum and equipment.
“The trucks are getting more advanced with more computers,” Decker said. “Everything is evolving—it’s a vertical climb of technology. You’re constantly trying to pick up what’s new and exciting.”
Decker, who works full-time as a diesel service technician at MHC Kenworth in Springfield, also teaches auto heating and air conditioning at Ozarks Tech.
“Paul was highly recommended by his instructors while he was a student,” said Gabe McLaughlin, Transportation Department Chair. “When I heard that he was interested in teaching part-time, I was genuinely excited. He has exactly the kind of experience and attitude that helps students connect and succeed.”
Decker encourages those interested in mechanics not to be discouraged if they are non-traditional students or lack experience. “I got into it very late,” he said. “I embrace the idea that you can do whatever you want, whenever you want.”
Credits: Videographer Austin Barton and Photographer Kristina Bridges