| Superintendent-Director Ernest F. Houle is delighted to share that Assabet’s Automotive Technology and Collision Repair program recently received a donation of a 2024 Ford Mustang GT, courtesy of Acton Ford.
A lot full of new 2024 Ford Mustangs were awaiting pickup at a Michigan dealership when severe flooding hit in September. The vehicles suffered water damage, meaning they could no longer be sold. Making light of an unfortunate situation, Ford decided to donate the vehicles to high school training programs. Due to Assabet’s longstanding partnership with Acton Ford in Acton, one of the Mustangs was offered to the school’s Automotive Technology program to be used by students during their hands-on coursework.
Last month, representatives from Acton Ford and regional Ford locations, Assabet instructors, administrators, and Auto Tech students gathered in the school’s auto shop for a ceremony to unveil the Mustang.
"High school automotive programs are essential. The industry is struggling to find new technicians, but there are many different opportunities for students in the field," said Suzanne Daniels of Acton Ford. "To succeed in this dynamic industry, we need continuous education and training. The world is yours to explore. We’re excited to be a part of this program at Assabet."
Acton Ford General Manager Chris Abatsis shared: "We are inspired by students in our co-op program. They are willing to take risks and make mistakes in the effort to learn. We are so grateful to have Assabet in our backyard."
Once given the cue, the shop doors opened, unveiling the Mustang. Its engine revved as it pulled into the shop, revealing its blue and yellow detailing and the Assabet logo proudly branded on the hood and side doors.
Students swarmed the car, itching to open the hood and look at the engine. Event attendees laughed and spoke enthusiastically about the newest addition to the shop as students took turns sitting in the driver’s seat and testing out the Mustang’s stereo.
Auto Tech students may participate in a co-op at Acton Ford, taking the same industry-recognized courses as Ford employees. The credits earned from these courses transfer to employment post-graduation should the students choose to pursue a career with Ford, giving them a leg up in their early careers.
Brendan Demelo, a senior from Hudson, spends every other week working on-site in Acton while balancing his coursework at Assabet. He plans to continue his work after his graduation in June.
"This has been an amazing opportunity and a great way to gain real-world experience," Demelo said. "Everyone at Ford is great and I’m thankful to have had this opportunity."
Present at the event was Anthony Camelio, a 2022 Assabet graduate and now Acton Ford employee thanks to his participation in the co-op program. He expressed his gratitude for the partnership, which kick-started his career.
"Since I was a little kid, I loved everything to do with cars. I never thought I’d have the opportunity to work at a big name. The Ford representatives came to Assabet when I was a junior, and I thought to myself, ‘why not apply?’ I now work with great people and could not be more grateful for the opportunities I was given at Assabet."
"The reason that Career and Technical schools flourish is because of these business and industry partnerships, allowing students to elevate their technical competencies while developing necessary skills for when they enter the workforce," said Superintendent Houle. "We are deeply grateful for our partnership with Acton Ford, which so graciously donated the Mustang for our students’ benefit." |
