Friday Feature • September 15

Friday, September 15, 2023

This week, I would like to spotlight two of our stellar automotive faculty, Andrew Smith and Caryl Koch, who recently took a group of students to Watkins Glen International Raceway. They were there to participate in the Winners Circle Project with over 30 of our students.

The Winner’s Circle Project is designed to inspire fresh, young, innovative minds through STEAM programs and to supercharge their interest in learning more through the exciting world of car racing. 

The day was filled with informational and participatory sessions for the students, including discussions on technical components and competencies, sponsorships, and even race simulations.

I didn’t get a chance to make it there until the end of the day, but our new VP for Academic Affairs, Carrie Cokely was present throughout the day to root them on and speak to the high school students in attendance.

I loved having the chance to see some of the vehicles the students worked on, and they were phenomenal!

Area high school students built cars from the ground up and brought them to Watkins Glen for the competition. This day was an opportunity for ASC students to inspect those vehicles for safety and overall aesthetics as part of the judging. At this event our Pioneers are helping high schoolers and are role models to the younger students.

This is exactly the type of travel experience that gives ASC students the exposure and chance to make connections outside the classroom.

By participating in events like the Winner’s Circle Project, our students will gain increased knowledge as well as possible internship and job opportunities as they rub elbows and network with the pros.

The nonprofit organization explains that this event is intended to reinvent the STEAM engine by encouraging students. The fields of science, technology, engineering, arts, and math come alive for students on, and beyond the racetrack.

Way to go Andrew, Caryl, and the whole automotive department for your continued work and dedication towards the education and preparation of our students!