ESBOCES Receives $10,000 Grant Money to Help Educate Students in the Automotive Field

Eastern Suffolk BOCES is pleased to announce that the Automotive Technology Program received a $10,000 grant from the Collectors Foundation. Established in 2005, the Collectors Foundation is a philanthropic movement among collector vehicle and boat enthusiasts who support young people and the future interests of the collector community. The Foundation awards scholarships and educational grants to organizations committed to "hands-on education" and making a difference in the lives of young people through the appeal of historic vehicles and vessels - building the next generation of collectors.

ESBOCES Administrative Coordinator Audrey Gottlieb was the driving force behind the agency and the Automotive Technology program getting the grant. She said, “I applied for the grant because it would enable ESBOCES to offer an after school Automotive Club at the Edward J. Milliken Technical Center (MTC) in Oakdale and provide the students the opportunity to learn how to build a T-bucket.”

A T-bucket is a specific style of hot rod, based on a Ford Model T of the 1915 to 1927 era. It is extensively modified featuring a big engine, large rear tires, and tough drivetrains to handle the power of a V8 engine.  Automotive Teacher Steve Celeste said, “Our goal is to build the T-bucket in three stages. The students would learn welding skills, automotive repair, custom automotive detailing, painting, and engine building. Team work, time management, and good communication skills are also very important on this project.”  The goal is to sell the T-bucket on E-bay.  Money raised could be used to offer the program the following year.

Principal Tom McGrath said, “We want to give students an exciting, meaningful project that they can work on throughout the school year and complete a sleek, shiny, beautiful collector automobile. I think it would increase student confidence and spark an interest in the automotive field.”