"The Leeward CC automotive training program is first-rate. It helped train and certify a number of our technicians. We hope that with this donation, we can help provide the next generation of automotive technicians with the tools they need to succeed."
Dan Hirota, general manager of Servco Auto Windward.
OAHU — Servco Auto Windward has donated factory specialty tools and automotive parts, valued at more than $204,000 to support the hands-on learning experience offered to students enrolled in Leeward Community College's automotive program. This new donation complements the college's inventory of 15 new General Motors cars and trucks that were donated earlier. The automotive program has been training qualified automobile personnel for 41 years. The program, with its day and evening classes, typically has between 125and 145 students working towards an AAS degree
in automotive technology.
"General Motors and Servco Auto Windward have been
supporters of Leeward College's automotive program
for more than 25 years," said Manny Cabral chancellor, Leeward Community College. He continued, "Our automotive staff has taught a wide range of courses to the technicians at many automotive dealerships throughout the State." Cabral concluded, "This partnership with industry is an ongoing relationship which benefits the local businesses, the manufacturer, the technicians, the customers and the students of Leeward CC."
Nationwide, most community colleges and vocational programs face limitations in their ability to teach students using the latest technologies and procedures as the cost factors for the necessary equipments are significant.
"These donations allow Leeward CC to teach the latest in technology as it relates to the modern vehicle. With the use of factory tools and parts, Leeward CC's classes will be presented exactly as the manufacturer has designed them to be taught at their factory training centers." Jake Darakjian, division chair, Leeward Community College Automotive Technology Program. "Our students enter the workforce fully trained in the latest technologies and equipment. This ensures that local businesses are able to do quality repair jobs, and customers' safety is ensured."
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The University of Hawaiʻi Foundation, a nonprofit organization, raises private funds to support the University of Hawaiʻi System. Our mission is to unite our donors' passions with the University of Hawaiʻi's aspirations to benefit the people of Hawaiʻi and beyond. We do this by raising private philanthropic support, managing private investments and nurturing donor and alumni relationships. www.uhfoundation.org.
Leeward Community College As the third largest campus in the University of Hawaii system, Leeward Community College provides access to higher education and plays an important role in workforce development in Leeward and Central Oʻahu. The College focuses on students, teaching, learning, and responsiveness to community needs. With courses in more than 100 subject areas, Leeward CC offers a comprehensive curriculum for immediate entry into the workforce or for transfer towards a baccalaureate degree. Leeward Community College, with diverse student population and experienced and caring faculty, has provided access, affordability, and a high quality education to the people of Hawaii since 1968. http://www.leeward.hawaii.edu/
