OWOSSO, Mich. -- Baker College of Owosso has announced it is investing $2.5 million in a new facility and equipment to create a certificate program in diesel service technology for heavy-duty buses and trucks.

The program begins in the fall.

Baker purchased a 20,000-square-foot building in Owosso Township to house the program. Renovations to the facility are to begin this spring, with classes starting in September.

Baker's program is designed to help fill an employment shortage of qualified diesel technicians for heavy-duty trucks and buses.

According to the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Growth, it is anticipated there will be 280 yearly job openings in Michigan alone through the year 2012.

"Our diesel service technology program will appeal to traditional and nontraditional students because in about a year, an individual can be fully prepared to enter a new, high-demand, high-paying job market," said Denise A. Bannan, Baker College of Owosso president.

Like other Baker College automotive technology programs, Owosso's diesel service technology program is designed to meet the requirements for certification by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.

The program will prepare individuals to maintain, diagnose and repair medium and heavy-duty vehicles and to perform successfully on the certification exams required for all persons seeking work as diesel mechanics/technicians in the state of Michigan.

Students will focus on electrical systems, diesel engines, heavy-duty brakes and suspensions along with other certification/licensure areas of their choice.

Financial aid, including grants, may be available to students enrolled in the program. Day and night programs are offered.

For more information, e-mail Mike Konopacke at mike.konopacke@baker.edu, or call the Baker College of Owosso admissions office at (989) 729-3350 or (800) 879-3797.