Building Tomorrow’s Technicians: How a Revived High School Shop is Sparking Careers in Automotive Service, Collision Repair
Posted on: 04, October, 2024September 9, 2024 AutoInc.
Most of us love a good fixer-upper. While most are residential, this one was located in a local high school.
An old mechanical shop, long abandoned and repurposed for storage, was restored to its former glory last year in Albuquerque, N.M.
Scott Benavidez’s vision for the Future Focus program is fulfilling new career opportunities and dreams for students who may have otherwise gotten lost in traditional classroom settings.
Once home to woodworking, plastics, and other skilled trades, the shop had been unused for years. However, when Scott Benavidez, ASA chairman and owner of Mr. B’s Paint and Body in Albuquerque, N.M., saw its potential, he spearheaded a project to clean and revive the space. With the help of enthusiastic students, Benavidez transformed it into a fully functional collision repair and mechanical workshop.
“The space is big enough to fit four cars,” says Benavidez, who was inspired to start a successful new apprenticeship program, Future Focus, alongside the workshop. “Everything was there; it just needed some care and attention. We saw this as an opportunity to provide hands-on learning experiences for our students.”
While the restoration was physical, it also represented a rebirth of trade education in the community. The workshop’s revival marks the beginning of a new era where students can transition from classroom learning to practical, hands-on training within their school. The goal is clear: to move from the classroom to the school’s shop and eventually to professional shops in the community.
Meet the Apprentice: Kimberly Gonzalez
Among the standout students in an apprenticeship program that Benavidez has coordinated since 2023 is Kimberly Gonzalez, who has shown exceptional promise in the automotive field.
Gonzalez’s strong work ethic, passion for learning new things, and professionalism landed her a job at one of only three Gold Seal ASE shops in New Mexico. Dick Vocio, an industry veteran, owns Vehicle Maintenance Place, where Gonzalez works. He loves mentoring the next generation of technicians and shop owners.
Gonzalez, 18, graduated in May 2024 from Highland High School in the Southeast Heights area of Albuquerque. Her journey into the automotive world began with a simple love for cars, influenced by her uncle and father, who both work on their vehicles.
“I told my mom I am interested in cars, and she said, ‘Go for it.’” Gonzalez recalls. Her passion and determination led her to an internship with local shop owner Dick Vocio of The Vehicle Maintenance Place, one of three ASE Gold Seal shops in New Mexico.
With her hard work ethic, professionalism and ambition, Vocio offered her a permanent position. She began working there full-time in June.
Gonzalez is focused on mastering the basics – oil changes, tire rotations, and balancing – but her dreams go beyond just working on cars. “My mom is telling me to keep going. I love cars, and when I grow up, I want to own a shop,” she shares. Vocio adds that she even dreams of owning a shop that works only on women’s cars.
Gonzalez’s story is an inspiration, proving that passion and proper training can lead to a fulfilling and successful career.
Also bilingual, Gonzalez joined the apprenticeship program alongside her brother and a friend. She quickly made an impression during her internship with Vocio, who noted her work ethic and eagerness to learn.
“I love hands-on work,” Gonzalez says. “I learn more when I’m doing something.” Her internship has provided her with invaluable experience in mechanical inspections, brake work, and alignments. She is also studying for her emissions certification.
Her family support is strong. “My parents are so excited. They said, ‘Just keep it up. Be a good example,’” Gonzalez says. Her story reflects the opportunities the apprenticeship program has opened up for students passionate about the automotive industry.
Community Support: Industry Leaders Rally Around Apprenticeship Program
The success of this apprenticeship program has not gone unnoticed. Industry leaders, including I-CAR, the Automotive Recyclers Association (ARA), and the Automotive Management Institute (AMi), have all expressed their support.
You can read about the evolution of the program in this AutoInc. article.
Benavidez said even companies like Spanesi have shown interest in getting involved, demonstrating the widespread enthusiasm for nurturing the next generation of automotive professionals.
“We’ve had so many people willing to help with this apprenticeship program,” says Benavidez. “It’s a year-long cycle that includes classroom learning, internships, and eventually, placement with local shops. We’re creating a pipeline that ensures students learn and gain real-world experience.”
One of the most powerful aspects of the program is its ability to reach students who might not thrive in a traditional classroom setting. Benavidez recalls one student who struggled academically but excelled in the shop. “I got a kid who has seven Fs – that’s the kid I want to hire,” he says. “I put a screwdriver in his hand, and it’s magic. He’s that good.”
This student’s transformation from a struggling student to a potential business owner is just one of the many success stories emerging from the program. Many of these students, says Benavidez, often deal with ADHD or other challenges. They are finding their place in the world through the apprenticeship program, proving that alternative paths to success are possible.
As the program continues to grow, the community’s support remains crucial. The program has already placed two seniors, and with 60 applications for just 20 spots this fall, the demand is apparent. This initiative is not just about teaching students how to fix cars; it’s about giving them the tools to build a better, brighter future for themselves and their families.
Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead
The apprenticeship program coordinated by Scott Benavidez is more than just an educational initiative; it’s a lifeline for students who may not fit the traditional mold. With the support of industry leaders, local businesses, and the community, these students are gaining the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the automotive industry.
The program’s success reminds us of the importance of vocational education and its impact on individuals and communities. As Kimberly Gonzalez continues her journey in the automotive world, she serves as a shining example of what can be achieved when passion, opportunity and support come together.