Diesel instructor combines expertise and innovation to engage students
Jay Duca loves his job teaching others the ins and outs of diesel technology. He’s been an instructor in the Diesel Equipment Technology program at Fox Valley Technical College since 2010, when after a 20-year career as a diesel mechanic, a friend urged him to apply for the position.
He’s also a bit of an innovator, always looking for new ways to experiment with technology. Virtual reality, artificial intelligence and oscillography are some of the tools Jay has explored to help students learn and understand the complex problems they encounter.
Learn more about Jay and what he loves most about teaching in our FVTC Faculty Spotlight.
What classes do you teach?
I teach the second-year classes in the Diesel Equipment Technology program: Advanced Drivetrain, Advanced Engine Systems Engine Rebuild, and Computer Controls classes.
What do you enjoy most about the classes you teach?
I love helping students understand the technology that’s involved in our industry and learn about things they don’t think they can learn. Watching students grow and understand really complex systems… that’s where the fun is.
What’s one piece of advice you have for students?
I tell students to embrace the learning process. Don’t be afraid of the hard things. Push yourself and enjoy the journey.
What skill are you currently working on?
I’m currently working on incorporating some technology not normally used in our field, like AI and scope or oscilloscope usage, helping students understand how to troubleshoot problems using oscilloscope-type diagnostics. So those are ongoing developments that take time; incorporating them into the classroom is a big effort.
What’s one thing about you that might surprise your students?
I love to metal detect. It’s just a simple little hobby that I have. I once found a Canadian one cent coin from 1881.
What do you like to do outside of the classroom?
What I do outside the classroom is really similar to what I do in class: I fix things, I build things, and enjoy working with my family. Our vehicles never go out for repair.
What was your first job?
My first job was working at a rabbit farm. Not an enjoyable job. Only lasted two weeks.
What was your best job?
My best job is working here. I really enjoy it. It’s a lot of fun.
Check out our video interview with Jay including his answers to our lightning round!
