Area dealership makes donation to Automotive Trades program

Students pose with dealer and equipment

An Albany-area car dealership is helping Capital Region BOCES stay in the fast lane when it comes to preparing the future mechanics and auto repair experts.

Capitaland Motors Subaru & GMC donated this week 2 CVT transmissions and 2, 2.5 liter short blocks for students to train on.

“The transmissions are new technology compared to what our students work on and will allow them to work with the latest in technology,” said Automotive Trades Technology teacher Scott Tessier.

Capitaland owner Regina Grego and Service Manager Bill May were joined Monday in making the donation by Mark Russo of Subaru University. It’s the second donation in recent years that Capitaland Motors Subaru & GMC has made to the Automotive Trades Technology program.

Grego said that is because she is inspired by the work being done at Capital Region BOCES.

“Everyone there goes above and beyond in instructing the students in the trades they are in. It is so impressive.”

Capitland Motors Subaru & GMC has been a longtime advocate of Capital Region BOCES CTE in terms of hosting numerous students for work-based learning and providing career opportunities for students and graduates alike, said teacher Brian LaCroix.

Automotive Trades Technology teacher Brian LaCroix thanked Capitaland for the continued support.

“The continued support of Capitland Motors Subaru & GMC ensures our students will continue to have great opportunities to succeed, both personally and professionally,” LaCroix said.

There are currently more than 100 students enrolled in the Automotive Trades Technology program that is offered on the Albany and Schoharie campuses. Students in the two-year program learn everything from computerized diagnostics to hands-on repairs while gaining the skills to service and maintain all types of cars and light trucks. Students are prepared to enter the industry or pursue higher education and earn professional certifications that will aid them no matter the path they choose.