Donation drives new training opportunities for Washburn Tech Automotive Service students
One car on display at the annual Washburn Tech Car Show on Friday, May 1, will remain parked at Washburn Tech once the event is over. A partnership between Ford Motor Company and Laird Noller Ford is gifting this vehicle to Washburn Tech for use in training automotive service students.
A Key Exchange Ceremony begins at 10 a.m. in front of Building A on the Washburn Tech McPherson Campus at 5724 SW Huntoon St. The vehicle, a new Ford Mustang, will become a valuable training tool as students learn to work on the latest automotive technology.
“By donating newer vehicles, our students gain valuable hands-on experience with current automotive technology, an opportunity that sets this program apart,” said Mike Clouser, instructor, Washburn Tech automotive service program. “We are incredibly grateful to Laird Noller Ford and the Ford Motor Company for supporting our students and preparing them to excel in the field.”
The gift recognizes Washburn Tech’s commitment to the Ford ACE (Automotive Career Exploration) curriculum. The program is offered to a select group of schools that demonstrates strong engagement and dedication to developing tomorrow’s automotive technicians. Ford considers participation levels, including the number of ACE courses completed, when identifying recipient schools.
“The opportunity for a school to receive a donated vehicle is truly something special,” said Denise Harries, technical placement specialist, Ford Motor Company. “These donations are not common and being selected reflects the school’s dedication, performance and continued involvement in the ACE program.”
Washburn Tech revs up for annual Car Show
Washburn Tech is hosting its 26th annual Car Show from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Friday, May 1, on the Washburn Tech McPherson Campus at 5724 SW Huntoon St. The show is free to the public, with a $20 entry fee before the event and $25 on the day of the show.
Cars, trucks and motorcycles will be judged in five classes: muscle cars, antique cars and trucks, motorcycles, special interest and custom/low riders. Other event highlights include food trucks, a silent auction, a bake sale, games and more.
For more information about the Car Show or to preregister, go to https://www.washburntech.edu/student-life/campus-events.html. All proceeds from the event support the Washburn Tech Care Closet, which provides financial relief to currently enrolled students who experience hardship that may interfere with their academic progress.
