Going on 28 years, the CMU Tech Car Show on May 4 was a highlight event for gearheads, grease monkeys and automotive enthusiasts alike. Every year, the parking lot on CMU Tech's campus is packed with engine-powered machines, offering participants a walk through history and insight into the industry year after year.
The CMU Tech Car Show is run wholly by full-time CMU Tech students and high school students in the concurrent program. Under the leadership of Technical Instructors Mike Carsten and Paul Hoerr, the students reached out to sponsors, designed posters and facilitated day-of coordination. Students’ hard work was evident in every corner of the show, even down to the award trophies, which were designed and molded by CMU Tech welding students.
This year, CMU Tech partnered with 18 sponsors to bring in food trucks, music and fun on campus. Community members brought their collectible, vintage, and custom-built vehicles to CMU Tech, where attendees admired the craftsmanship and rigorous care of each vehicle.
Like all CMU Tech education paths, the transportation services program prepares students for employment in the industry while also providing a steppingstone to higher levels of education. Hands-on instruction gives students a competitive advantage to pass their Automotive Service Excellence certification and obtain a stable, rewarding and high-paying job.
Students spend their classes repairing engines, brakes, suspension, steering and electrical systems. They also learn how to improve engine performance, working on different automatic and alternative fuel vehicles. Trade Center Auto Recyclers, Inc is an annual partner, helping the transportation service program weave sustainability and safe disposal practices into the curriculum. The CMU Tech Car Show was a great opportunity to visualize how their hands-on experience can result in building and maintaining magnificent machines like the ones entered in the show.
Entrance fee proceeds supported scholarships for students in the CMU Tech transportation services program, in automotive and diesel. Unwavering community engagement helps CMU Tech invest in students’ passion and education in the automotive industry. For more information and inquires, contact Mike Carsten or Paul Hoerr.