Donna ISD, STC celebrate ribbon cutting for new automotive training facility
Donna Independent School District and STC celebrated the opening of a newly renovated automotive training facility at Donna High School East, highlighting a continued commitment to workforce education and expanded opportunities for dual credit students.
Donna Independent School District (DISD) and South Texas College (STC) celebrated the opening of a newly renovated automotive training facility at Donna High School East, highlighting a continued commitment to workforce education and expanded opportunities for dual credit students.
District leaders said the facility will provide students with hands-on training opportunities while earning college credit through Donna ISD’s partnership with STC’s Dual Credit Programs.
“This ribbon cutting ceremony signifies a celebration of commitment to the students of Donna ISD and our partnership with STC,” said Donna ISD Superintendent of Schools Angela Dominguez, Ph.D. “Our automotive bay has been given a huge facelift and has been outfitted with the latest tools of the trade and equipment to give students the experience they need to be successful in this industry.”
Dominguez also highlighted the district’s mission of preparing students for college careers while thanking STC and General Motors for donating a 2019 Chevrolet Silverado for instructional use.
STC President Ricardo J. Solis, Ph.D., emphasized the growing demand for technical and workforce training programs throughout the region, especially in manufacturing and automotive industries.
“This is what we need, a short-term solution for our students to have meaningful, high-paying jobs,” he said. “We need stability, continuity, dedication and commitment to these programs. We’re going to continue expanding our technical programs because that’s where the demand is.”
This is what we need, a short-term solution for our students to have meaningful, high-paying jobs. We need stability, continuity, dedication and commitment to these programs. We’re going to continue expanding our technical programs because that’s where the demand is.
Solis added that partnerships between educational institutions, local governments and economic development organizations are essential to strengthening the regional workforce.
“This is about what’s best for our citizens and creating opportunities for students right here on the border,” he said.
Automotive student Alfredo Rivera said the program has already helped shape his future in the automotive industry.
“This program has been phenomenal,” Rivera said. “It’s given me all the knowledge required to get my foot in the door of the automotive industry. From diagnostics to electrical work to working on vehicles, it’s helped set my path for the future.”
Rivera hopes the future generations of students continue benefiting from the program and expanded training opportunities.
The upgraded facility reflects a continued investment in career and technical education programs that provide students with industry experience, certifications and college coursework before graduation.
For more information about STC Automotive program, visit: www.southtexascollege.edu/academics/automotive/.