Diesel Automotive Technology
In the spring of 1963, Instructor Wallace Uerlings, told his Auto Body Repair student Marcus Essig- “Someday you would make a good Instructor for this industry”. Marcus took that advice to heart and after seven years active in the Collision Repair industry he accepted a job as Instructor at the new Clackamas Community College. He became the Department Chair after three years and held that position until his retirement in 1998. During his time at Clackamas, he became very active in the Faculty Association and held the position of Faculty Association President two different terms. He also became interested in the concept of Individualized Learning Systems (ILS), and spent two summers working with the State Department in writing curriculum in this new format, and Piloting the material at his school where it was instituted as the core course material. In 1979, he was asked by a new International Non-Profit Training organization (I-CAR) if he was interested in being a volunteer to help develop up-grade and new technology for Collision Repair Technicians. Marcus continues contributing to this organization in many ways; he has served on their Education Foundation Board of Trustees and many advisory committees. He continues as an Instructor, Welding Qualification Test Administrator, and Technical Advisor.
Upon his retirement at Clackamas he and his Wife, Nancy, funded an Endowment fund for students in the Automotive Trades. He continues to be active with his College and “just can’t stay away”. All thanks to Wally for his encouragement and motivation- fifty years ago.