North American Trade Schools

North American Trade Schools (NATS) stands as a pillar of practical education, specializing in equipping students with the essential skills for in-demand careers in diesel engine repair and commercial truck driving. What began in 1970 as the Diesel Institute of America (DIA) was a visionary response to a critical industry need: Sheldon Monsein, then president of Central GMC/Kenworth, founded DIA specifically to address the shortage of qualified mechanics for his company's fleet. This made DIA a true pioneer, becoming the first trade school in Maryland to offer specialized training in diesel engine maintenance.

Over the decades, NATS, in its former iteration as DIA, steadily grew its impact. After starting in a modest 500-square-foot garage, it expanded its offerings significantly, notably introducing comprehensive training for commercial truck driving in 1986. This expansion further solidified its commitment to providing crucial vocational skills that directly feed into the economy.

The school entered a new chapter in 2002 when it was acquired by EFC Trade, a Canada-based business recognized for its specialty career training. This acquisition led to a significant relocation to its current Baltimore campus in 2004, at which point the institution proudly adopted its current name, North American Trade Schools. Today, under the leadership of school director Matt Daly, NATS continues its legacy of delivering hands-on, industry-relevant education, preparing students for successful and vital careers through practical, focused programs designed for the modern workforce.