Photo credit: Hyundai
Five Valley High School Automotive Academy students were among 50 students from throughout Orange County competing in the 26th annual Orange County Automobile Dealers Association Automotive Technology Competition at Hyundai Motor America in Fountain Valley.
The students’ participation was possible thanks to funds from the California Energy Commission. The competition is designed to recognize and cultivate students’ automotive expertise and attract other individuals with a passion or interest in the automotive industry. Students are also able to receive more $1,500 in scholarships.
“Automotive retail sales and service is a $12 billion industry in Orange County,” said OCADA Executive Director John Sackrison. “These bright students have a tremendous career opportunity, and we are excited to help share the wide range of options and growth for automotive technicians in the high-tech automotive profession.”
Each student completed individually and as a team representing Valley High School. Competition categories included shop safety, brakes, service information systems, and engine mechanical performance. Valley High School students Daniel Gutierrez placed 17th; Brianna Benitez placed 23rd; Alexis Vasquez placed 27th; and Noemy Grajeda placed 32nd.
“The competition provides students the opportunity to apply what they learn in class in a real-life setting,” said Mary Tran, Executive Director of the High School Inc. Foundation for Valley High School. “It is a great learning opportunity for our students.”
