Community Corner
State Farm Donates Two Vehicles to Wilson Technological Center Auto Body Repair Classes at Western Suffolk BOCES
Wilson Technological Center auto body repair classes receive two vehicles from State Farm to work on.
State Farm donated two vehicles to Wilson Technological Center’s auto body repair classes at Western Suffolk BOCES on Wednesday, November 12. State Farm Estimatics Team Manager, Brian Greenzang presented the 2009 Pontiac G6 GT and 2004 Mazda 6S and discussed career opportunities with students.
“There is currently a demand for skilled technicians in all facets of the auto repair industry. Young adults who have a desire to learn about automobile technology and a passion for cars can have successful careers, if they put their mind to it,” said Greenzang. “Wilson Tech is an institution that helps develop young people’s skills and puts them in the right direction.”
Greenzang, celebrating 37 years with State Farm, is on the advisory committee for the Wilson Tech auto body program and took a BOCES class when he was 21 years old.
Eighteen junior and senior high school students are taking the two-year auto body repair program at Wilson Tech. Taught by Stephen Rizzuto, who has more than 20 years of auto body and repair experience, the students learn the skills to restore damaged vehicles and customize cars and trucks.
“Our goal is to get students into college or career ready. Our program is growing, we want to expand as much as possible,” said Rizzuto. “There is a need for technicians in the industry. Auto body shops are offering better quality jobs and we hope to provide matching students.”
Farmingdale State Farm agent Mandell Smith also shared stories from his career and discussed opportunities with State Farm.
“Wilson Tech helps create pathways for juniors and seniors that may not choose to further their education at a college or university, but open doors for them to start earning salaries at an early age,” said Smith. “This opportunity equips them with the knowledge and certifications that will help them achieve their future goals.”
Wilson Tech offers 29 career and technical programs for juniors and seniors in high school to gain hands-on skills that they can use to enter the workforce or continue in post-secondary education after graduation. Students attend Tech for half the school day and attend their home high school for the other half. Wilson Tech is a division of Western Suffolk BOCES.