Indianapolis, Ind. — Ivy Tech Community College’s Indianapolis campus today announced the generous donation of a Class 8 truck by PepsiCo to its diesel technology program. The donation is the latest significant investment in the ongoing partnership between Ivy Tech, PepsiCo, and the PepsiCo Foundation through the Uplift Scholarship program, which aims to support underserved students in their pursuit of valuable credentials in high-demand fields.
The Class 8 truck — commonly known as a tractor-trailer or semi-truck — is a heavy-duty vehicle used for hauling large trailers and cargo over long distances. Class 8 trucks are essential for industries that rely on large-scale shipping and logistics and are equipped with powerful engines and advanced systems to handle the demands of long-haul commercial freight transportation.
The PepsiCo truck will support Ivy Tech diesel technology students — including PepsiCo Foundation Uplift Scholars — as they gain hands-on experience diagnosing and repairing high-tech, computer-controlled systems.
"We are deeply grateful to PepsiCo and the PepsiCo Foundation for this incredible donation, which will provide our students with invaluable, practical learning experiences. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to supporting the next generation of skilled professionals in transportation and logistics — two of Indiana’s high-growth, high-income industries.”
– Dr. Stacy Atkinson, Indianapolis Chancellor
As trucking industry standards evolve with stricter emissions requirements and advancing electronic systems, there is substantial demand for skilled diesel technicians in Indiana. The state’s Department of Workforce Development projects that job openings for these roles will grow by more than seven percent through 2031. PepsiCo operates the largest private delivery fleet in the U.S., and the donation to Ivy Tech Indianapolis is to ensure the number of skilled workers keep pace with the workforce demands of the transportation industry.
“The PepsiCo Foundation is proud to partner with Ivy Tech and community colleges across the nation to help students break down economic barriers and access high-skill, high-wage jobs in their communities,” said Jamelle Lacey, senior manager, PepsiCo Foundation. “This donation is one way we can ensure students gain hands-on experience with advanced electronic systems like those found in PepsiCo’s modern, heavy to severe duty trucks. We are excited to see the positive impact this donation will have on the futures of Ivy Tech students.”
In 2021, the PepsiCo Foundation launched the Uplift Scholarship program to provide financial and mentoring support for community college students. . Ivy Tech was one of 20 institutions selected to administer Uplift Scholarships. The scholarships are available to students attending six of Ivy Tech’s 19 campuses (Muncie, Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Lafayette, South Bend, and Marion) and studying advanced manufacturing, information technology, business administration, logistics and supply chain management, mechatronics, industrial technology or transportation.
In addition to financial support, the Uplift Scholarship program offers students wrap-around services including dedicated success coaches, access to emergency grants, financial literacy courses, and other resources to support them on their education journey. To date, the PepsiCo Foundation has awarded nearly $530,000 in scholarships to more than 220 Ivy Tech students.
About Ivy Tech Community College
Ivy Tech Community College is Indiana's largest public postsecondary institution and the nation's largest singly accredited statewide community college system, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Ivy Tech has campuses throughout Indiana and also serves thousands of students annually online. It serves as the state's engine of workforce development, offering associate degrees, long- and short-term certificate programs, industry certifications, and training that aligns with the needs of the community. The College provides a seamless transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana, as well as out of state, for a more affordable route to a bachelor's degree.
