Tools will support female students entering the field in an auto tech program that lacked the necessary tools to provide effective hand-on training
Pontiac, Ill.—The Auto Care Association’s Tool and Equipment Community, in partnership with Cutting Edge Automotive Solutions and American Tire Distributors (ATD), has donated over $30,000 in tools to the automotive and diesel technology program at Livingston Area Career Center in Pontiac, Ill.
The donation to the Livingston Area Career Center follows outreach by Colt Gragert, automotive and diesel technology instructor at Livingston. Gragert connected with Missy Stephens, manager, community engagement, Auto Care Association
He sought guidance on how to better support the growing number of female students in his program and to learn more about the Women in Auto Care community. Gragert said he saw the need to support female students entering the field and shared that the program lacked the necessary tools to provide effective hand-on training.
“Colt’s commitment to empowering students — especially young women entering the field — aligns perfectly with our mission,” said Stephens. “It was an honor to help connect him with our association’s Tool and Equipment community to bring this support to life.”
Upon learning the need, the Auto Care Association’s Tool and Equipment community responded with the donation from Cutting Edge Automotive Solutions and ATD.
“I am passionate about this industry, and we need to do more than just talk about cultivating the next generation of automotive professionals,” said Lee Locklear, president, Cutting Edge Automotive Solutions. “… if you are in a position to help, you should help. We were, so I did.”
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