Student Success
Shiley School of Engineering
University of Portland and Daimler Truck North America Showcase the Power of Community
The University welcomed over 30 employees and alumni from Daimler Truck North America (DTNA) for Daimler Truck Day on Friday, October 23, connecting students with industry professionals through classroom engagement and community-building opportunities.
Parked prominently on The Bluff, DTNA's Culture & Belonging truck served as a visible reminder of the company's commitment to fostering inclusive communities in the workplace and beyond.
During engineering students’ capstone course, DTNA leadership shared expertise from one of the world's leading commercial vehicle manufacturers, offering students firsthand insight into industry trends and professional pathways. Following this guest lecture session, students gathered in the Shiley-Marcos Center for Design & Innovation Plaza where they met directly with DTNA professionals, many of whom are also University of Portland alumni.
The conversations reflected a natural alignment between DTNA's philosophy of "Better Together" and University President Dr. Robert Kelly's vision of UP as a university "of, for, and with Portland." Both emphasize the importance of relationships, collaboration, and strengthening communities through shared purpose.
"Partnerships like this help students see the possibilities ahead of them," said Marija Hobbs ’98, UP Associate Director of Alumni Engagement. "When alumni and industry professionals return to campus to share their experiences, students gain valuable insight while expanding their professional networks."
More than 90 University of Portland students participated in the event, engaging with professionals across engineering, business, operations, communications, and leadership roles. The opportunity allowed students to ask questions about career, workplace culture, emerging industry challenges, and life after graduation.
For DTNA employees who are also UP graduates, the day offered a chance to reconnect with their alma mater while investing in the next generation of Pilots.
The partnership reflects the University of Portland's commitment to experiential learning and community engagement, bringing students into direct contact with professionals whose work is shaping the future of transportation. It also demonstrates the important role alumni play in strengthening connections between the University and the broader Portland community. As both organizations emphasize through their guiding philosophies, meaningful opportunities are created when people come together, because we are truly better together.
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