The Metro St. Louis CARSTAR Group has formed a partnership with Ranken Technical College, donating $35,000 to the school’s automotive collision repair program.
“With a decline in the number of people entering the auto body trade, we wanted to do our part in recruiting and training the most competent individuals for the job,” said Kerry Woodson II, chairman, Metro St. Louis CARSTAR Group. “Ranken produces top-notch, well-qualified individuals for our field, and we are excited about the opportunities this partnership will provide to both CARSTAR and Ranken.”
Students learn in both a 20,000-square-foot shop and a classroom setting. The majority of CARSTAR’s donation will be allocated to stocking and furnishing an auto collision repair classroom. The new CARSTAR classroom will be equipped with smartboards and other modern learning tools, enhancing the traditional aspects of the program. The remaining funds will be used for maintenance at Ranken’s discretion.
Two local CARSTAR stores are owned by Ranken graduates, and many shops employ Ranken interns.
“Ranken has the best auto body repair program in the area,” Woodson said. “We look forward to bringing more Ranken interns, apprentices and graduates into the CARSTAR family.”
For more information, visit www.carstar.com or www.ranken.edu.
