Dighton-Rehoboth’s CTE program has been active and thriving for over 60 years. In recent news, the automotive department has been quickly progressing and blooming with the ardor of incoming and current students. Recognizing the program’s success and his role in it, Micheal Strojny decided it was time to accelerate efforts to enhance automotive opportunities. Strojny took steps to secure the proper online training, working closely with members of Tasca Ford and the local school committee, and even reaching out to members of the Massachusetts government to help move the program forward.
With the implementation of this new vehicle in the automotive program, the doors have opened for new learning opportunities. When asked how this could benefit his students, Michael Inman, an auto teacher at DR, said, “It could benefit our students by having something more technologically advanced. It has new aspects such as engine controls, body electronics, and more technology overall.” Considering the fact that this vehicle was produced in 2023, it has up-to-date technology that can allow students to learn more about how it works, especially in real-world scenarios. Even though students in the Auto program work on a variety of vehicles on a daily basis, a vehicle equipped with new technology has the potential to significantly impact the entire program, including the students’ future prospects. According to Michael Strojny, the CTE director and former auto teacher, this donation not only affects students now but also in the future by “giving them a head start on their career, which increases their wage. It is detrimental for them to get their education before they graduate.” In the automotive industry, technicians get paid through a rank system. Your “rank” depends on how much knowledge you have, which then determines how much you are paid. Due to the fact that knowledge is the most important factor when going into a trade, having a solid education as a base is essential to achieve success early. Aside from the students’ benefit, this new vehicle is a valuable asset to DR as a whole. To emphasize this, Bill Runey, the superintendent of DR, said that this can affect the school by “continuing to try to put DR on the map and spotlight other businesses, which will increase our opportunity to partner with them.” Not only does this donation promote Ford, but it is a gateway for DR to collaborate with larger companies for the students’ and communities’ benefit. Overall, this kind donation from Tasca Ford will impact our community for years to come!
