Dean Gales, automotive collision instructor of Manual Career & Technical Center, may hold the keys to the best kept secret in the district. While the shop has completed work on six district vehicles for a total savings of $20,000, employees may also bring in their autos or trucks for student work for the price of parts alone and $1/hour labor.

The shop is certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR) Training. Instructor Dean Gales provides a balance of classroom curriculum and practicums to ready students to work on these projects. “We invite any district employee to make use of our services. Our students will appreciate the experience,” said Gales. “We’ve been working on cars for years, and will deliver quality workmanship for the price of materials.”

The program holds a solid reputation with vocational schools, employers, and students. All students are enrolled in a core curriculum of academic studies at their neighborhood schools while participating in the dual program at MCTC.