Community of Automotive Professionals (CAP) Donates to Automotive Technology and Diesel Technology Programs
October 26, 2021
Photo: From left, SPC Diesel Technology Instructor, Don Wehmann, CAP Chief Financial Officer, Aden Stiles, SPC Diesel Technology Program Coordinator, Don Fernandez, SPC Automotive Technology Program Interim Department Chair, John Eichelberger, CAP Education Liaison, Michael Smith.
Community of Automotive Professionals (CAP), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the improvement and revitalization of both the automotive industry and South Texas communities, donated to both the St. Philip’s College Automotive Technology and Diesel Technology Programs. Each program received a donation of $5,000.
“The entire amount of the donation received will be passed to students in the form of toolsets. Students apply to receive a professional toolset which helps them as they start their career,” said John Eichelberger, Interim Department Chair for the Automotive Technology Program.
The check presentation took place during CarFest, an annual weekend-long event produced by CAP. The event took place in October at the Freeman Coliseum Expo Hall. During CarFest, some of San Antonio’s top master technicians will showcase their skills as they repair 25 vehicles for area residents.
Automotive students from vocational schools, such as St. Philip’s College, work alongside these experienced professionals to learn job-related skills and gain hands-on experience as they assist with repairs. Students from both Automotive Technology and Diesel Technology volunteer at the event each year.
“The students gain the skills and knowledge of working on a shop floor alongside professional technicians. They also see the value of giving back to the community through this service-learning opportunity and network with employers while assisting in repairs,” said Diesel Technology Program Coordinator, Don Fernandez.
The Diesel Technology Program at St. Philip's College is designed to provide students with the necessary skill set to pursue a career in today's highly technical and competitive field of diesel technology. Courses in the program include Heavy Duty Brake Systems, Diesel Engine, and Engine performance, Preventive Maintenance, Basic Hydraulics, Electrical, and more advanced diesel technology courses. There are currently over 100 students enrolled in Diesel Technology.
SPC’s Automotive Technology Program is nationally certified in eight content areas and maintains ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) Master Certification status -- the highest level of achievement. The program curriculum prepares students with technician training enriched in current technology and fundamental hands-on skills for individuals seeking an entry-level position or advanced position in the automotive career field. There are currently over 200 students enrolled in Automotive Technology.
The St. Philip’s College Diesel Technology and Automotive Technology programs have been in partnership with the Community of Automotive Professionals since their inception in 2015. Together they educate and train the next generation of industry professionals, help certified technicians find employment, and provide students the opportunity to build relationships with local and national automotive industry professionals.
To learn more about the Diesel Technology and Automotive Technology programs, click here.
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