Contribution of a 2020 Ford F-150 will allow students to gain valuable hands-on experience

College of the Rockies’ Automotive Service Technician (AST) students will benefit from a generous donation of a 2020 F-150 pickup truck from Ford of Canada.

“We are grateful for this generous donation from Ford of Canada,” said Jack Moes, Dean of Trades and Technology. “Having access to a newer model pickup truck will allow students to get their hands on the most up-to-date automotive systems and technologies, a tremendous benefit to their learning.”

In addition to the truck, Ford of Canada is also providing AST students and faculty with access to their online Automotive Career Exploration (ACE) training. A partnership program between Ford Motor Company of Canada, Ford dealerships, and post-secondary institutions, the ACE program aims to raise awareness and increase interest in career opportunities within the automotive industry.

Courses include everything from basic vehicle system fundamentals to some of the most current and detailed vehicle systems training like electrical, Powertrain, air conditioning, and more. These courses are the same as those current Ford technicians complete to receive specialty training in dealerships.

“Students who complete these courses will gain important knowledge of Ford and Lincoln vehicle systems which will help prepare them to start their careers in the industry,” added Moes. “It can be challenging to get this type of updated training on newer model vehicles, so we are excited for our students and faculty to have access to the ACE training courses”

The donated truck, one of 95 that will be donated to automotive programs across the country, is considered unsellable due to flood damage but will provide students with a highly beneficial training tool. Prior to delivering it to the college, local dealership Denham Ford ensured the pickup was thoroughly cleaned, and completed any minor repairs that may have been needed. All costs for cleaning were covered by Denham Ford while delivery costs were donated by Freightliner of Cranbrook.

“We thank the entire team at Denham Ford as well as Freightliner of Cranbrook for helping to facilitate this donation,” Moes said. “Their support of the AST program, and of our students, is appreciated.”

Learn more about College of the Rockies’ Automotive Service Technician program at: cotr.ca

Lead image: College of the Rockies Automotive Service Technician (AST) program will benefit from the donation of a 2020 Ford F-150 truck from Denham Ford. Pictured (l-r): Jack Moes, Dean of Trades & Technology; John White, AST instructor; Rene Kowalchuk, General Manager, Denham Ford, Steve Zsillei, Marketing Manager, Denham Ford; Paul Vogt, College President & CEO; Mike Penny, Service Manager, Denham Ford; Robin Hicks, College Vice-President Academic, and Graham Knipfel, Director of Donor and Alumni Engagement. COTR photo

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