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Automotive and heavy equipment dealerships are expanding recruitment efforts in the state, paying high school students’ way through college to help guarantee a workforce.

“It’s crazy right now, the demand for diesel,” said Ann Pollert, technician and career developer for General Equipment & Supplies Inc. The company has offices in four North Dakota cities.

Pollert met with Colin Johnson and Robert Strand, a sophomore and junior from Hazen High School, during the North Dakota Automobile and Implement Dealership Job Fair at the Bismarck Public Schools Career Academy on Tuesday. The two are considering careers in the automotive industry.

“It’s kind of nice when you have a bunch (of companies) who want workers instead of just a few,” Strand said.

Pollert was hired by General Equipment in September to meet with high school students, grades 9-12, because the company realized it needed a person focused on recruitment full time.

The company will pay 70 to 90 percent of student loans upon their graduation, Pollert said. It asks for a three-year commitment from the graduates. While they’re in school, students in the company’s Diesel Tech Program work at one of four locations during the summer and on breaks.