Automotive parts retailer Tenneco gives guests the opportunity to drive two similar vehicles, one equipped with its original shocks and the other with shocks manufactured by Tenneco, during the first-ever Whitby-based Monroe Ride and Drive held at Durham College’s Whitby campus on June 9.

July 28, 2011

Durham College’s Whitby campus was packed with hundreds of people with a love for cars this past June 9 when automotive technicians, service writers, shop owners and automotive staff and students all visited the college’s Whitby campus for automotive retailer Tenneco’s first-ever Whitby-based Monroe Ride and Drive.

The event gave guests an opportunity to drive vehicles equipped with their original shocks followed by the opportunity to drive the same vehicle equipped with new Monroe shocks manufactured by Tenneco. It also included a presentation on the importance of replacing shocks and struts and the impact both have on vehicles and safety.

“The opportunity to see the products and take part in the experience was really fun,” said Norm Fenton, former dean of Durham College’s School of Skilled Trades & Technology. “Being able to showcase our college to local businesses is also great for us and our graduates. It shows potential employers that Durham College cares about what’s going on in the industry.”

The presentation was lead by Sydney Gay, a trainer from Tenneco, who used humour and reality to educate the crowd on the purpose of shocks and struts. This included the proper way to install parts; tips on how to sell parts; and how shocks and struts work in conjunction with other vehicle parts including brake pads, tires and wheel wells.

“Having so many industry professionals attend the event really got the Durham College brand out to potential future employers for our graduates,” said Nathalie Stutt, admissions and recruitment officer, Durham College “The event gave students, faculty and people in the industry a chance to learn together and network. It opened a lot of doors for our students and created new connections for the college.”