Automotive Technology Program receives Toyotas for training aids
The Automotive Technology Program of Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College recently received the donation of two Toyota cars to be used as training aids for the students. One of the cars is a 2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid and the other is a 2005 Toyota Solara.Ron Daniels, professor of the automotive technology program and industrial division chairman, noted the cars would be used by the automotive students to troubleshoot, diagnosis and offer hands-on repair. Daniels, who has worked at Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College since 1992, believes it is crucial that all automotive technicians stay up to date in the ever-changing world of automotive technology. This past summer, he was part of a select group of instructors who received a weeklong training course held in Massachusetts that focused entirely on hybrid automotive technology. The Toyota Corporation released only two hybrid vehicles for training purposes, and the hybrid training that Daniels received helped Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College obtain one of the two vehicles.
“I am extremely excited about the prospect of offering hybrid training to our students; thereby increasing the students’ capability of gaining employment upon completion of the program,” he said. “Hybrids are on their way. With gas prices on the rise and no real relief in sight, we have no choice but try something new. Harlan County already has more hybrids than you might think. Technology is changing every day at an increasing rate, if we don’t try to change with it we all will be left behind paying even more.” Gambrel Toyota of Corbin transported both cars from the Georgetown, Ky. Toyota plant to Harlan at no charge to the college.“We at Southeast are so appreciative of Larry Gambrel and his staff and say thank you on behalf of the SKCTC automotive program and its students.” A three-hour training course will be offered soon for anyone that currently owns or is interested in purchasing a hybrid. There will be some new hybrid cars on hand for participants to test drive.In addition, and slated for the same day, a four-hour safety seminar for first responders will be offered. Participants will be provided with the required rubber gloves needed to work on the high voltage 3-phase hybrids. Anyone interested in either of these classes can phone Ron Daniels at 573-1506, ext.13247 for more details.
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