At a glance
We have lectures and go through the basics, and we talk through everything that we will experience in the real world. Getting hands-on you learn more, experience it, and you know exactly what is going to happen. When I go into the industry, I will already have done it.”
Mikal Smith
Mikal Smith found his passion at Alfred State College and loves the hands-on experience he receives daily in the autobody program.
Prior to enrolling into the autobody program, Mikal had never even worked on a car. “Everything was completely new to me. I started completely nervous, but my teachers eased that feeling.”
Mikal enjoys taking the knowledge he receives in the classroom and putting it right to work. “We have lectures and go through the basics, and we talk through everything that we will experience in the real world. Getting hands-on you learn more, experience it, and you know exactly what is going to happen. When I go into the industry, I will already have done it.”
Mikal and his classmates rebuild cars daily in the campus shop that is equipped similarly to what they will see when they enter the workforce. “We go through everything that goes with running a car. We need to know everything so we can make sure everything works. When a vehicle leaves our shop there are no worries.”
“It gives you a sense of accomplishment when a vehicle comes into the shop, and it is smashed and mangled and now seeing it driving and looking new.”
“I am extremely grateful and thankful that every day we have so many opportunities with so many cars.”
Smith has the skills and knowledge to drive a career he loves.