SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA CO. (WOLF) — Johnson College’s Automotive Technology and Collision Repair program received a donation of a 2021 Nissan Sentra Wednesday from Nissan North America and Tom Hesser Nissan to support the institution’s hands-on training opportunities. Officials said the vehicle will serve as a vital resource for students preparing to enter the workforce.
Jim Williams, Automotive Technology Program Director at Johnson College, said the donation helps the program keep its training aligned with current industry needs by giving students access to a newer vehicle representative of what they may encounter in the field.
“This vehicle will be used in all of their coursework, from brakes, steering and suspension systems to engine performance systems, HVAC systems and automatic transmission. They’ll have their hands on this vehicle in all of their coursework. We’re always trying to provide the latest and greatest to our students, and this newer vehicle will be a great asset,” said Williams.
Williams added that enrollment in Johnson College’s automotive program has grown substantially in recent years, reflecting continued interest in automotive careers.
As Johnson College’s automotive program continues to grow, Jason Sileo, Parts and Service Director at Tom Hesser Nissan, said the dealership sees the donation as part of its ongoing effort to support the college’s automotive training programs.
“So basically, the college will use this to train their students. It’ll be beneficial to us because we need technicians. I’m not sure if most people are aware, but there is a large technician shortage right now, and dealerships all over the nation are looking for trained technicians. I think this is a great way for them to learn and become familiar with the Nissan product,” said Sileo.
Tom Hesser Nissan has worked with Johnson College for several years through the college’s program advisory committee, providing input on the skills and qualifications dealerships look for in new technicians. The dealership has also hired Johnson College graduates and provided internship opportunities, continuing a relationship focused on connecting students with opportunities in the automotive industry.