Alvin ISD’s JB Hensler College and Career Academy’s Collision Repair program has 10 new vehicles to test out their skills on as they prepare for their futures in the automotive industry.
The JB Hensler Collision Repair program received 10 donated Audi and Volkswagen vehicles thanks to the Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF), Audi of America, and Volkswagen of America. The 10 are part of just 78 vehicles that were donated to programs nationwide. JB Hensler was the only school in Texas to receive these vehicles.
These vehicles were donated to collision repair programs throughout the United States to enhance the education of thousands of collision repair students and support the next generation of auto workers. In a rapidly changing industry, it is critical students have access to the latest vehicles and technology.
“It is important to always be ahead and prepared for what is coming in the industry as our graduates are employed by companies throughout Texas and the nation,” said Brandy Johanson, Director of CTE for Alvin ISD. “This partnership and donation helps further the mission of Alvin ISD to continually look for ways to bring in equipment and funding to help train our students as they learn at our campus to become great employees.”
The donated vehicles were damaged during shipping to the point they could no longer be sold to customers. Upon evaluation, a group of Audi and Volkswagen employees knew this wasn’t the end for these vehicles since they were still functioning and intact. The CREF team got to work with Audi and Volkswagen on how these vehicles could serve a new purpose. Months of planning, coordinating, and reviews among this dedicated group of Audi and Volkswagen employees, CREF, and schools resulted in the donation of these vehicles.
The donated vehicles range from large SUVs, like the Audi Q7, to comparatively smaller cars, like the Audi A3. There is also a mix of both ICE vehicles and electric vehicles (EVs), including the Volkswagen ID.4 and Audi e-tron.
“The donations will have a major impact on providing engaging, hands-on instruction for our students,” shared Scott Pollard, JB Hensler Collision Repair teacher. “The donated vehicles that are assembled and equipped with the newest technology provide our students with the opportunity to train on the cutting-edge of the industry. Moreover, the EVs will put our students well ahead of the curve when it comes to the latest industry trends. This is one of the largest donations we have ever received and will be a foundation for our students moving forward.”