Thanks to Fraser Ford and Ford of Canada, students studying in the Durham College’s (DC) Motive Power Technician – Service and Management program and Levels 1, 2 and 3 automotive apprenticeships will have the opportunity to develop in-demand skills, while also gaining valuable hands-on experience by working on a 2020 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Donated as part of Ford Canada’s nationwide initiative to provide 95 vehicles to automotive technology educational institutions across the country, the students will be able to put the skills they are learning in class to good use while working on the truck.

“Supporting our local community has been a core value here at Fraser Ford for our more than 26 years in operation,” said Carlee Fraser, vice president and general manager, Fraser Ford. “As a past board member for Durham College, I’m delighted to continue to support the students in this valuable program. We’re excited to see them continue to grow in this industry and continue to advance their knowledge with access to this new vehicle.”

While the truck had been damaged due to flooding last year, it has been given a new lease on life as the perfect training tool.

“On behalf of the students and faculty in our automotive programs at Durham College, I want to offer a heartfelt thank you for this gift,” said Dr. Rebecca Milburn, executive dean, School of Skilled Trades, Apprenticeship & Renewable Technology, and principal, Whitby Campus. “The donation of the 2020 Ford F-150 Raptor will enhance our ability to train students and support our primary goal of preparing job-ready graduates.”

In addition to hands-on learning opportunities, students will also gain access to Ford Canada’s online Automotive Career Exploration (ACE) training, a subset of web-based programs comprised of the same courses taken by current dealer technicians.

“Fraser Ford’s donation will be a great asset to our students’ practical experience,” said Ralph Ruffo, co-ordinator for DC’s Motive Power programs. “The addition of ACE is an added bonus and will allow them to become familiar with Ford technology, while also allowing them to participate in real-time factory training.”

For more information on DC’s programs or apprenticeships, please visit http://www.durhamcollege.ca/start.