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Metro Detroit high school unveils state-of-the-art auto technology lab

Posted at 7:33 PM, Nov 13, 2017
and last updated 2017-11-13 19:33:46-05

Troy High School unveiled a new auto technology lab that aims to inspire kids. The school district says it is part of a one-of-a-kind program where students can become certified mechanics while in high school.

“I want to work on cars. I like cars, always liked cars,” said Givon Ciaque, a student in the program.

Students say the technology will help them make their dreams come true, allowing them to do repair jobs that were not possible before in the program.
 
“We said I am sorry I can’t do that. We don’t have the proper tools, but now we have the proper tools. We can do pretty much do anything and it prepares you to go out into the world and say I can handle this,” said Jacob Exum, a student.

“We need these technicians,” said David Easterbrook, who is one of the donors who made it possible.

He was inspired by his daughter’s memory to get involved. Ashely Easterbrook went to Troy High School. She and two of her friends were killed by a drunk driver five days before graduation in 1997. 

Since then, her family made sure scholarships were given away in her honor. When they heard about the need for this program, they saw a way to help many students.

“It is like she hit me over the head and said Dad, lets give hundreds of kids a chance every year, not just one,” said Easterbrook.

Easterbrook is president of AME companies, which is a supplier for the auto industry.

He didn’t do the job alone. Rousseau Metal donated cabinetry materials, imBranded’s provided graphics, fabric covers, and signage, and The Suburban Collection donated 30 new lab coats and $5,000 for tools and equipment.

During the unveiling, industry insiders spoke about how this investment will help fill the need for qualified mechanics in the market.