Electric car technology is rapidly evolving, and educational initiatives are keeping pace with these advancements. In northwest Ohio, high school students are gaining hands-on experience in building electric vehicles, setting the stage for a future-ready workforce. One such student, Dalton Buck, a senior at Toledo Technology Academy of Engineering, is enthusiastic about the shift towards electric transportation, citing it as a pivotal aspect of his career aspirations.
Buck is part of an energy systems management class that falls under the alternative energy channel at the academy, designed for 11th and 12th graders. The curriculum equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to construct electric cars from scratch, program their functionalities, and deconstruct them for a comprehensive learning experience. This proactive approach ensures that students like Buck are well-prepared for the burgeoning electric vehicle industry.
The academy received SwitchLab car kits in March, with the electric vehicle lab inaugurated in August. Tony Totty, UAW Local 14 president and academy board member, played a pivotal role in facilitating the integration of these kits into the school’s program. Totty emphasizes the importance of nurturing a skilled workforce to meet the demands of the expanding electric vehicle sector, underscoring the critical role of mechanics in this evolving landscape.
Through hands-on learning experiences, students are not only honing their technical skills but also gaining insights into the future of electric vehicles. Laura Kubiak, the instructor leading the alternative energy class, emphasizes the broader impact of the program, empowering students to pursue careers as engineers, electricians, environmental scientists, or city planners. The curriculum aims to instill confidence and career readiness, providing students with a competitive edge as they embark on their professional journeys.
Dalton Buck’s group represents a cohort of students at the forefront of this educational initiative, with a focus on practical application and skill development. As the second group to undertake the electric car project, Buck is immersing himself in the intricacies of electric vehicle technology, recognizing the potential it holds for his future career prospects. His active engagement in the program reflects a broader trend towards preparing students for the evolving landscape of transportation and sustainability.
Toledo Technology Academy of Engineering stands out as the only school in Ohio where students are actively involved in constructing electric vehicles. This distinction underscores the academy’s commitment to innovation and experiential learning, positioning students like Dalton Buck as trailblazers in the realm of electric transportation. As Dalton’s group achieves the milestone of getting the car operational, it symbolizes a significant step towards a future where electric vehicles are not just a concept but a tangible reality.
TTA of Engineering, a tuition-free public school catering to students from 7th through 12th grade, serves as a beacon of educational excellence in northwest Ohio. Recognized for its academic achievements, the school has garnered acclaim from U.S. News and World Reports, ranking among the top 5% of educational institutions in Ohio and the United States. By fostering a culture of innovation and hands-on learning, the academy is shaping the next generation of leaders poised to drive advancements in electric vehicle technology and sustainable transportation.
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