We Are LDI: PJ Van Der Linden Tech-Up Tool-Up Edition

We’re excited to welcome PJ, the newest addition to our Tech-Up Tool-Up scholarship program at LDI! This innovative initiative is designed to support aspiring diesel mechanics by assisting with the cost of their education and providing them with professional tools up to a certain amount. This scholarship program is available for students attending a two-year diesel tech program. In return, participants commit to bringing their skills and passion to LDI for 36 months as full-time service technicians. PJ’s journey is just beginning, and we’re thrilled to have him on board as he takes the first steps toward a rewarding career in diesel mechanics.

We had the chance to talk with PJ and learn a little about him as he enters this journey after high school! PJ is originally from Katuh, South Africa. His family moved to America about eight years ago, and they received their citizenship at the end of 2024. When asked about his experience and interest in agricultural equipment, PJ stated he has worked around the farm since he was in the 5th grade and has formed a future goal to work in mechanics. His inspiration to apply for the LDI Tech-Up Tool-Up program stems from this scholarship being the perfect opportunity to get started in this field of work. “I want to spend the rest of my life working on equipment, and this program can help me reach that goal physically and financially,” states PJ.

PJ just graduated from high school this spring and will begin his two-year program with Fort Hays Tech North Central in Beloit, KS, in the fall. At LDI, we specialize in AGCO equipment, and PJ is most excited about the experience of working on various equipment and learning skills to be able to apply to his future within the industry. When asked if he has any specifics, he is most excited about, he can’t pinpoint just one, “I am just excited to gain knowledge on everything,” he says. The Tech-Up Tool-Up experience is close to home because he knows people who have gone through it and highly recommends the scholarship program to those interested. Overall, PJ is hoping to gain experience with equipment for his future career and is excited to have this program help him get there!

We are excited to welcome PJ to the LDI crew and cannot wait to see how the Tech-Up Tool-Up Scholarship Program will guide him to his future as a diesel mechanic! If you’re interested in learning more about the program, call your local LDI to get connected or visit our website for more details!