Gettel donation designated to develop automotive service workers
Source: Manatee County School District
The Gettel Automotive Group donated $25,000 to the Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair program at Parrish Community High to develop and employ young, skilled, local students for jobs in the automotive service field.
A special ceremony to commemorate the donation was held in the Automotive Center at Parrish Community High on October 5, 2023. School Board members attended, including Vice-Chair Cindy Spray, Gina Messenger and Richard Tatum.
Gettel Automotive Chief Marketing Officer David Kelly and his team were on-hand to present the check.
Automotive Instructor Sherman Ballard and three of his students spoke about the program and demonstrated some of the repairs and skills being taught in their classroom.
“We are extremely grateful for the large contribution Gettel Automotive has made to our automotive program,” said PCHS Principal Daniel Bradshaw. “Their generosity and partnership will contribute to our program’s goal of becoming one of the best in the state.”
Specific Courses and Certifications offered through the program include Automotive Service Safety and Service Pollution Prevention; Engine Repair; Brakes; Electrical; Heating; A/C; Engine Performance; Suspension; and Steering, according to PCHS Automotive Teacher Sherman Ballard.
“What I hope to achieve is to give students the confidence to safely use the tools and diagnostic equipment with a proper approach to repair,” Mr. Ballard said.
