(left to right) Conner Hanson and Mason Brown from Pflugerville High School attempt to diagnose problems in a Ford Fusion during the 2012 Ford/AAA Student Auto Skills state finals competition at San Jacinto College Central Campus. Photo credit: Jeannie Peng-Armao, San Jacinto College marketing department.

Students vie for top spot at  Ford/AAA Student Auto Skills event at San Jacinto College

 Jeannie Peng-Armao -- April 25, 2012

PASADENA, Texas — San Jacinto College Central Campus recently hosted the 2012 Ford/AAA Student Auto Skills state finals competition as 20 high school students vied for their shot at nationals.

 For more than 10 years, the College has hosted this competition that is open to high school juniors and seniors interested in pursuing careers as automotive service technicians. All participants begin with an online exam, with the top 10 highest scoring two-person teams advancing to the state finals. The hands-on competition tests automotive knowledge, workmanship, and problem-solving abilities with a written test, and a hands-on race against the clock to diagnose and properly repair an intentionally “bugged” vehicle.

North Lamar High School students, Charles Osborne and Doyle Bell, took home first place and will advance to the national competition this year in Dearborn, Mich.

 More than 10,000 students representing more than 950 automotive technology programs across the country compete in this event. In 2011, a record-high $12 million in scholarships was offered at both state and national levels to Ford/AAA Student Auto Skills competitors.

About San Jacinto College

Surrounded by monuments of history, industries and maritime enterprises of today, and the space age of tomorrow, San Jacinto College has been serving the citizens of East Harris County, Texas, for more than 50 years. The Achieving the Dream Leader College is committed to the goals and aspirations of a diverse population of 30,000 students in more than 200 degree and certificate options, including university transfer and career preparation. Students also benefit from the College’s job training programs, renowned for meeting the needs of growing industries in the region. San Jacinto College graduates contribute nearly $630 million each year to the Texas workforce. San Jacinto College. Your Goals. Your College.

For more information about San Jacinto College, please call 281-998-6150, or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.