The Gettel Automotive Group donated an additional $25,000 to the Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair program at Parrish Community High School on Thursday, raising its total contribution to $100,000.
The donation supports the development and employment of young, skilled, local students for careers in the automotive service industry. Students and instructors spoke during a special event about the program’s impact and future opportunities.
“We are extremely grateful for the large contribution Gettel Automotive has made to our automotive program,” said PCHS Principal Daniel Bradshaw.
New instructor Austin Barbic never imagined becoming a teacher. But after attending a job fair at Manatee Technical College, the Virginia native received a call asking him to try something new.
Now leading students in the automotive shop at Parrish Community High School, Barbic says he’s found his calling.
From working on Volkswagen and Audi vehicles to inspiring tomorrow’s mechanics, “I’ll never look back,” he said. “This brings me so much happiness.” He participated in a similar dual-enrollment program when he was growing up, so on-the-job training is what Mr. Barbic knows.
Max, a senior and third-year automotive student, enjoys changing tires and performing oil changes. When asked if he works on family vehicles at home, he chuckled, “I’ll do it with my own car, but not theirs.”
Born in New York City, Max plans to return to the Big Apple and join the union, aiming to become either an electrician or an NYPD officer.
He credits his two teachers, retired instructor Sherman Ballard and Austin Barbic, for teaching valuable life lessons. “Both are relatable and inspire students by showing them instead of just talking about it,” Max said.
Jacob, a senior, chose the automotive course as an elective because he enjoys working with wrenches and fixing his dad’s truck and grandpa’s cars at home. He plans to earn ASE certification, which will help him as he aspires to join the Coast Guard.
A Manatee County native, Jacob hopes to spend his career doing something on the water, and looks forward to retirement. He attended Williams Elementary and Buffalo Creek Middle School.
Jacob is enthusiastic about his teacher’s ability to manage the class and engage students in projects like installing car stereos. He especially enjoys working on Toyota vehicles made in Japan.
Career and technical education programs like the Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair course at Parrish Community High School are building a strong foundation for student success.
Through hands-on learning and real-world projects, students like Max, Jacob, and others gain valuable skills and life lessons that prepare them for rewarding careers.
This success is made possible thanks to dedicated instructors and vital partnerships with local businesses like the Gettel Automotive Group. Their continued support ensures students are equipped with the training and opportunities needed to thrive in today’s workforce and beyond.