That’s the backdrop for Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems’ expanding its 2026 Brake School schedule, offering more in-person and advanced technical training sessions across the country.

In total, Bendix will host 23 in-person classes across 11 states, along with two virtual options, running from March through November. The sessions are designed for fleet technicians, owner-operators, and maintenance professionals, but the topics directly affect anyone behind the wheel who depends on reliable braking performance.

Why This Training Matters to Drivers

Modern braking systems tie directly into safety technology that drivers rely on every day. When those systems are not properly serviced or diagnosed, it can lead to performance issues, warning lights, or unexpected behavior on the road.

Bendix says growing system complexity is exactly why it is expanding access to training.

“Technical education is more important than ever. At Bendix, we hear this time and again in conversations with fleets across North America,” said Nicole Oreskovic, Bendix vice president of sales and marketing. “Technicians operate in a fast-changing commercial vehicle environment, where safety components advance rapidly. The pressure is intense for carriers to maintain overall safety, performance, and uptime – while striving to lower their total cost of ownership.”

For drivers, that translates to better-maintained equipment, fewer roadside issues, and shops that understand the technology on newer trucks.

Air Brake Training Remains the Foundation

The backbone of the 2026 schedule is Bendix’s three-day Air Brake Training course, with 16 sessions planned nationwide. The first class runs March 31 through April 2 in Fresno, California.

This course focuses on the fundamentals that every truck depends on, including how dual air brake systems operate, how components interact, and how failures are diagnosed and repaired.

Classroom topics include compressed air fundamentals, air system failure mode diagnosis, and foundation brake components such as compressors, valves, drum brakes, and air disc brakes. The training also introduces Bendix’s Global Scalable Brake Control electronic braking system and Global Scalable Air Treatment technologies.

Bendix recommends participants complete its online air brake training before attending an in-person class.

Advanced Technology Training Expands for 2026

As driver assistance systems become more common, Bendix is also expanding its two-day Advanced Technology Training program, offering seven sessions in 2026.

Three sessions will be held at the company’s headquarters in Avon, Ohio. Two will take place in Reno, Nevada, and two in Fairfield, Connecticut. The first advanced session begins April 14- 15 in Avon.

This course builds on the air brake foundation and focuses on how advanced safety systems operate and are diagnosed. Topics include antilock braking systems, Bendix ESP Electronic Stability Program, Bendix Wingman Advanced collision mitigation, Bendix Fusion driver assistance systems, lane departure warning systems, tire pressure monitoring systems, and electronic braking and air treatment systems.

Hands-on instruction covers air disc brake maintenance and electrical diagnostics tied to these systems.

“The increase in technological advances in braking and stability makes this training a must for the advanced technician,” said Brian Screeton, Bendix manager of technical training and service. “As safety advances continue, technicians are only going to see more of these systems and components.”

Screeton added that at least one major North American OEM requires technicians pursuing master certification for its brake systems to complete both the two-day and three-day Bendix programs.

Virtual Classes and Testing Options

For those unable to attend in person, Bendix will offer two three-day virtual classes in 2026. One session will follow Eastern Time and the other Mountain Time to accommodate attendees across North America.

In-person classes include hands-on training using Bendix air system boards, including a working Bendix Fusion system that demonstrates collision mitigation and full air brake system operation.

At the end of both in-person and virtual courses, participants may take an optional written exam. Those who pass receive a Tested and Passed certificate, while others receive a certificate of completion. Bendix training is not affiliated with U.S. Department of Transportation certification and does not certify technicians for work on its systems.

Cost and Registration

Pricing for 2026 training is $525 per person for the three-day Air Brake Training course, $475 for the two-day Advanced Technology Training class, and $425 for the virtual program. Class sizes are limited and filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Registration is available through bendix.com, B2Bendix.com, or by calling 1-800-AIR-BRAKE.

Source: Heavy Duty Trucking

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Fleetio is addressing one of the fleet industry’s most significant challenges: technician turnover. To celebrate National Automotive Service Professionals Day, Fleetio proudly announced the recipients of its first Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Scholarship program. This initiative is aimed at developing the skills of future fleet technicians and addressing the talent shortage that continues to impact the automotive service industry.

Supporting Technician Development

“We are proud to partner with Fleetio to support deserving technicians in earning their industry credentials and building their expertise,” said Dave Johnson, president and CEO of ASE. “Especially during a time where qualified technician shortages are impacting the fleet industry, we are grateful for Fleetio’s dedication to investing in technician development.”

Technicians play a critical role in maintaining the safety, reliability, and performance of vehicles relied upon by millions each day. However, the fleet industry faces a significant challenge with a 30–40% annual turnover rate. According to Fleetio, this issue is exacerbated by insufficient onboarding processes and the lack of structured, ongoing mentorship. The ASE Scholarship Program seeks to address these gaps, empowering technicians with the tools, resources, and support necessary to establish strong, rewarding careers.

Fleetio explained, “By enhancing earning potential and creating clear pathways for growth, the program not only validates skills but also helps technicians find long-term success in the automotive field.”

Meet the 2025 Fleetio ASE Scholarship Winners

Grand Prize Winner

This year’s grand prize winner is Michael Hairston of Life Ride. He will receive a $3,000 scholarship to cover fees for three ASE professional-level Certification tests, along with funds for essential tools and supplies.

“I am most honored to be a recipient of this scholarship and extend my sincere gratitude to Fleetio for their generous support of my continued education and professional development,” Hairston said. “This financial assistance will be invaluable as I continue to advance my career as a maintenance technician at Life Ride.”

Runner-Up Winners

Five additional ASE Scholarship recipients, named as runner-ups, were awarded $1,000 each to cover fees for ASE Certification tests and tool upgrades. The winners include:

• Alex Palma – Quarry Management
• Andrew Cureton – AAA Oregon/Idaho
• Angel Gonzalez – General Pavement Management
• Chase Statter – Student Nominee, redbox+ Dumpsters
• Katherine Daniel – St. Johns County School District

These awards prioritize ongoing professional development, illustrating a commitment to strengthening the workforce within the fleet industry.

A Step Toward Solving the Talent Shortage

The Fleetio ASE Scholarship Program underscores the importance of investing in the next generation of skilled technicians. By addressing key hurdles such as onboarding inefficiencies and insufficient mentorship, Fleetio and ASE are building a stronger, more sustainable future for the fleet industry.

For more information about the ASE Scholarship Program, visit Fleetio ASE Scholarship.

Image Source: Fleet Maintenance
Source: The Trucker

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