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Career Center board tours auto labs

Jim Beardsley, the instructor of the auto technology class, shows board members the lab where he teaches, which recently was brightened up with new lights and paint.

LISBON — Jim Beardsley, the instructor in auto technology, and Rick DeSalvo, the instructor of auto collision and repair, took the CCCTC board on a tour of their labs on Tuesday, explaining a little about each program and what they expect from students.

Prior to the tour, DeSalvo talked about what it is like to be a new instructor at the CCCTC.

“Jim’s been a terrific mentor to me,” DeSalvo said. “We really do have a special place here and I’m thankful for being a part of it.”

The two instructors talked about the skills competitions and they things they do to not only help the students be successful in the programs, but some of the opportunities for them in the future if they do well.

Students are encouraged to bring in their own vehicles and work on them. DeSalvo points out they are more invested and more willing to do the work to do it right if it is the vehicle of someone they know well. They get involved in projects, such as rebuilding an engine, or straightening and repainting a fender.

Rick DeSalvo tells the CCCTC board about some of the projects students are working on in his auto collision program. (Salem News photos by Deanne Johnson)

Additionally, Beardsley said he encourages his students to participate in the CCCTC drug-free program, because most of the employers in those fields expect their employees to be able to pass a drug test.

For instance, Beardsley said he has have students leave his program and attend the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics, apprenticeships and internships to learn repairs of other mechanical systems and some who have attended AutoCAD training while gaining their associates degree from the University of Toledo.

Students at the CCCTC program learn both in the classroom and in the labs, getting hands on experience.

In other matters:

— The board approved an agreement with Strollo Architects for $85,000 to cover the cost of engineering and plans for the structural, plumbing, mechanical and electrical components of the upcoming renovations project at the CCCTC. The areas proposed this summer are the cafeteria, serving area, reception lobby, offices and restrooms.

— The board accepted the retirement of Philip James, the director of technology, at the end of the current school year. Superintendent Chuck Adkins said James is “truly an asset and dedicated” adding the CCCTC very much appreciates his work.

— Adkins talked to the board about two projects in Columbiana, which they have been informed could receive Community Reinvestment Area tax breaks. One proposed project is an expansion on Pittsburgh Street and the other is a new wholesale distribution center being considered for the Columbiana area.

— The board approved a donation of a four-foot by eight-foot lighted sign from Larry Csonka to the Landscape Environmental Design program, which will use the sign to advertise when they are having sales in their greenhouse.

— The next meeting of the CCCTC will be at 7 p.m., Feb. 18.

djohnson@mojonews.com

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