Continuing their ongoing partnership with Southern Regional Technical College (SRTC), Thomasville Toyota recently presented the Automotive Technology program at SRTC-Thomasville with advanced automotive service equipment valued at nearly $1000, and an additional $500 in scholarship funds.
Thomasville Toyota’s Service Director Brad Ramsey and Shop Foreman Chris Curry both serve on the program’s advisory board. During an advisory board meeting, Ramsey and Curry learned about some tools on the program’s wish list. Ramsey worked with leadership at Thomasville Toyota to secure equipment and funds for the program. “We are pleased to support this program,” said Ramsey. “In this industry, you have to grow technicians. You have to start them young. This program is doing that and we are impressed by SRTC graduates’ professionalism and readiness to work when they complete the program. We will continue to back them in any way they need.”
Automotive Technology Instructor Corey Nawolski explained that the new tools allow him to train students on the same equipment that they will use in their careers. “Access to sophisticated tools like this Borescope and Snap-on master ball joint kit allow me to deepen my students’ training and further prepare them for their day-to-day tasks and duties as automotive industry professionals.”
Thomasville Toyota also collaborates with SRTC’s apprenticeship program, currently employing three SRTC apprentices. Apprenticeships are federally funded work-based training opportunities completed under the supervision of a master or senior worker. This program secures in-field employment for students, allowing them to gain invaluable experience with a mentor while receiving classroom instruction. The apprenticeship program also supports students financially by providing them access to funds that can cover costs associated with their classes, tools, transportation, and more.
SRTC’s Director of Resource Development Christina Reneau said that the scholarship funds will further support Automotive Technology students as they work towards program completion. “This scholarship will help to alleviate the financial burdens of students so that they can focus on their training and education. We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of local organizations like Thomasville Toyota.”