INDIANAPOLIS — On Fri., Aug. 29, 2014 students from Walker Career Center’s Advanced Automotive Service classes attended the NHRA’s Youth and Education Services (YES) program in conjunction with the 60th annual U.S. Nationals at Lucas Oil Raceway. Presented by the U.S. Army, the NHRA’s Youth & Education Services (Y.E.S.) program is motorsports’ first and only full-time event dedicated to educational programming. The program provides high school and college-aged students with real world lessons about career options and positive goal-setting.
Walker Career Center students participated in a session led by NHRA drivers, including U.S. Army Top Fuel driver Tony Schumacher, other NHRA representatives, and U.S. Army soldiers. Tony Schumacher talked to the students about the importance of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). He also spoke with them about performing at their highest level all the time, every day, and to surround yourself with other hardworking, trustworthy people.
The students participated in a team building exercises with the U.S. Army, including building and crossing a bridge with only two 2x10s, and working together so solve a puzzle. The students were able to talk to the race drivers and the mechanics about job opportunities, job skills and what it takes to be on a racing team. They also met with post-secondary schools like Lincoln Technical College do discuss career paths, schooling and possible scholarships.
During the afternoon session, students were able to spend some time watching drag racing. The program was paid for by the U.S. Army, so it was no charge to the students to attend. Lincoln Technical College provided free transportation for the students.
