The automotive industry has undergone revolutionary changes during the past decade. The necessity to decrease emissions and fuel consumption has prompted design changes and advances in maintenance education to support these objectives. Loyalist students recognize the role automobiles play in the release of greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to global warming. In an effort to reduce this environmental footprint, the automotive programs are hosting Drive to Survive in the new Sustainable Skills, Technology and Life Sciences Centre on April 16th during the college’s Open House. The students will be conducting oil changes, diagnostic procedures and inspecting emission related components. They will also make note of any concerns they identify during the inspection and recommend actions to be taken. Visitors are encouraged to talk with the students about their work and the importance of these services.
“This event was initiated by one of our students a few years ago,” said Gerry Byrd, an automotive professor. “His sincere commitment to environmental responsibility is shared by many and has resulted in the continuation of Drive to Survive. It’s imperative to keep your vehicle well maintained. Emissions can be lowered if vehicle owners practice proper maintenance on a regular basis – oil changes, clean air filters and spark plug inspections. Our students would like to make people more aware of this.”
Motive Power Technician student Jordan Gadd
“I enrolled in this program because I wanted to learn how to fix my car and not rely on someone else to do so,” said Jordan Gadd, a second-year Motive Power Technician– Service and Management student from Picton. “I had no idea that I would enjoy the program this much. It’s perfect that the Loyalist Spring Open House is being held the same day as our Drive to Survive event. This is a great chance for anyone considering this program to stop by and see what we are doing. There’ll be several of us there and we’ll be happy to answer any questions you might have for us as students. It’s worth stopping by to see the new skills centre alone – it’s phenomenal.”
Ryan Hunt, Motive Power Technician student
Ryan Hunt is also a second-year student in the program. “I’ve always been fascinated with cars and understanding how they work. I love the challenge of diagnosing a problem, fixing it and then sending the customer on their way. We, as students in this program, understand the importance of maintaining our vehicles and our responsibility to do so. Drive to Survive gives us the opportunity to show others how they can make a positive difference also. We are fortunate to have faculty who are so knowledgeable in new automotive technology. Their leadership is preparing us to enter the field as skilled and socially responsible professionals.”
For information about the School of Skills Training at Loyalist College click here or stop by the campus on April 16th for the Spring Open House.