Mr. Chris Dieken To All Instructors

Small Engine Concepts and Repair

I grew up on a farm in Southern Minnesota where mechanic work, metal work and other trades were critical to the success of the farm, and also serve as a secondary source of income.  When I was 14, I bought a 1977 Ford short box pickup and restored it to near-new condition.  The college years were spent as a mechanic at a local shop working on anything from lawn mowers to building race car engines.  I also worked as a parts inspector near the University for a hydraulics parts company responsible for all incoming parts being to blueprint specification.  I received a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from Minnesota State University, Mankato and moved to the east coast to try out a job in Internet technology.  My career ended up being in Internet technology but I continue to have a passion for anything that runs.  

I do all of the mechanic work on the family fleet of cars and lawnmowers on a small hobby farm outside of Purcellville, where I live with my wife and four daughters.  Having grown up learning the trades, and now seeing how practical that knowledge is for day-to-day life, has inspired me to want to pass that invaluable knowledge on to the next generation.  I am looking forward to sharing what I have learned with others.

Current Classes
HS: Intro to Small Engines (SPRING) – (open)