Cleburne, Texas, December 1, 2010 – Hill College has opened its Automotive Technology Center in downtown Cleburne to mark the launch of the most advanced automotive technology and technical training center in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. The Snap-on Center for Excellence facility will draw not only Hill College students, but attendance from other schools in the region. According to Robert Riza, the school's vice president of student services, a waiting list now exists.
Snap-on Industrial is the primary equipment supplier for the facility. "Snap-on has provided us with the best cutting-edge tools available in the industry," said Riza. "Thanks to the company's discounts and government grants, our students will have access to a truly world-class training facility."
The school's two-year program focuses on maintenance and repair of automotive engines, brakes, heating and air conditioning, electrical and automotive transmissions, with a strong emphasis on diagnostics. Snap-on certification as part of these programs extends to automotive diagnostics, multimeters torque and wheel service.
While curriculum is the responsibility of the school, educators and select industry leaders, certification on Snap-on equipment is solely managed by Snap-on. Assessment requires a combination of hands-on application combined with an online test; successful certification becomes part of the student's academic record.
"Snap-on is dedicated to building relationships with education partners who share the company's vision of training that takes students beyond the classroom walls," said Frederick Brookhouse, Snap-on Industrial education partnership manager. "In Hill College we identified an institution that's not only dedicated to creating opportunities for its students, but a best-in-class educational experience that will carry its students into in-demand careers."
The new facility is located in a former church education building in Hill College's Howard Dudley Education Complex. The building's original gymnasium was converted into a two-story automotive service lab with 10 stalls. Existing classrooms were repurposed as conference rooms, faculty and staff offices or expanded classrooms.
"This technical training program will help students build a strong foundation upon which to create a promising future," said Dr. Sheryl Kappus, Hill College president. "The entire community will benefit from this partnership. We believe that this is what public/private partnership should be."
About Snap-on IndustrialSnap-on Industrial is a division of Snap-on Incorporated, a leading global innovator, manufacturer and marketer of tools, diagnostics, equipment, software and service solutions for professional users. Products and services include hand and power tools, tool storage, diagnostics software, information and management systems, shop equipment and other solutions for vehicle dealerships and repair centers, as well as customers in industry, government, agriculture, aviation and natural resources. Products and services are sold through the company’s franchisee, company-direct, distribution and Web-based channels. Founded in 1920, Snap-on is a $2.8 billion, S&P 500 Company headquartered in Kenosha, Wisconsin.
