Reno County partners with college to give students hands-on automotive experience
Fast Track program pays students $10 an hour to explore careers
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Community College's Fast Track program is giving local students a close-up look at public service careers, most recently bringing them through the Reno County Automotive Department.
Reno County Automotive Director Ron Brubaker guided students through the county's facility, demonstrating how his team maintains the local fleet. During the behind-the-scenes tour, students learned about current county projects, including the installation of new camera systems in Sheriff's Office vehicles.
The three-week pre-apprenticeship program pays participants $10 an hour to attend classes and explore career tracks in automotive mechanics, auto collision repair, construction, manufacturing and healthcare. Amy Elwell, apprenticeship coordinator at Hutchinson Community College, said the program helps students connect with local employers, teaches work ethic and often leads to internships or summer jobs.
The automotive track, led by instructor Jake Dreiling, offers students a condensed overview of basic maintenance, vehicle inspections, brakes and HVAC systems. The program gives teenagers and adults a broad look at the industry, allowing them to explore the trade before committing to a two-year degree.
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