Advance Auto Parts Foundation has made a $125,000 donation to the Durham Tech Foundation to support the Durham Tech Community College’s automotive systems technology program in North Carolina, according to a press release.
The donation will be given to five students enrolled in the automotive systems technology program this fall in the form of $3,000 scholarships for each student.
Another part of the donation will be used to supply the program with toolkits and laptops equipped with training software to be used by students, as well as purchasing or leasing other training technology and equipment to upgrade classrooms.
The remainder of the fund will go toward launching a paid apprenticeship program with a local repair shop that students may participate in to receive hands-on experience.
Topics covered in Durham Technical Community College’s automotive systems technology program include instruction in brake systems, electrical systems, engine performance, engine repair, suspension and steering, automatic and manual transmissions and drive trains and heating and air condition systems, as well as preparation for professional licensure exams.
Demand for technicians in the Durham-Chapel Hill region is rising, with nearly 100% of graduates of the ASE-accredited program gaining employment after completing their courses.