First presentation of outstanding technical program.
The Outstanding Technical Program Award, given for the first time this year, was awarded to the Motorsports Vehicle Technology Program at Lanier Technical College, Oakwood, Ga. The purpose of this award is to recognize an outstanding technical program at a postsecondary technical education institution. The program must be exemplary and contribute to the nation's workforce. Instruction in the program should be current and cutting edge. The Motorsports Vehicle Technology Program certainly meets these criteria. Bud Hughes, a program instructor, accepted the award on behalf of the program and college.The program began at the request of executives from the Panoz Racing School. During the program, students are prepared for entry-level positions in racing team shops and racing-related industries. Its focus is on the many forms of racing vehicles including sports cars, stock cars, drag cars, and open wheel cars. Students learn chassis set-up, engine designs, brake systems, transmissions, electrical systems, fuel systems, and fabrication skills unique to racing vehicles.
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Program instructors use a variety of innovative teaching techniques including bringing in guest lecturers and lab assistants from the ranks of race car drivers and crew chiefs, rebuilding race cars donated by Terry Labonte and others, and doing internships at major racing facilities. Since its creation, the instructors and students routinely do volunteer work at the Lanier National Speedway and Road Atlanta. They also raise funds for the Leukemia Society, provide facilities and support for the annual local antique auto show, and the annual Southeastern DeLorean Owners Club technical session.
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| Publication: | ATEA Journal |
|---|---|
| Article Type: | Brief article |
| Date: | Sep 22, 2007 |
| Words: | 251 |
| Previous Article: | A letter from the president. |
| Next Article: | Connecticut technology student honored. |
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