tudents across the Lambton Kent District School Board (LKDSB) are getting hands-on experience with real automotive technology, thanks to a generous donation from Ford Canada.
The company’s contribution includes engines, transmissions, and other key components such as valve bodies, starters, and steering racks, all of which are now being used in the board’s Transportation Technology classrooms. The donation, one of the largest requests granted through Ford’s educational equipment program, is helping bring industry-standard tools directly into schools.
“We’re incredibly thankful to Ford Canada for donating vehicle engines, transmissions, and accessories to our classroom,” said Nigel Bradshaw, a teacher at Chatham Kent Secondary School. “These parts will give students valuable firsthand experience and a real connection to the automotive industry. Support like this helps bring learning to life and shows students what is possible.”
Guy Wilkinson, a teacher with Alexander Mackenzie Secondary School, said the gift has already made a difference for his students. “The students in our Transportation Technology program would like to thank Ford Canada for the gracious donation. They will benefit from this generous gift.”
The components allow students to train with the same engine models and systems used in vehicles on the road today, providing an advantage for those pursuing careers in the skilled trades while offering valuable knowledge to students interested in understanding vehicle maintenance.
“It is great that our students have the opportunity to work on current Ford models,” said Ben Ostropolec, Special Projects – Technological Education. “This gives them real-life connections to automotive trade and hopefully steers a few students in that direction. It was like a child on their birthday watching them open the crates and boxes.”
The LKDSB says community partnerships like this one play a vital role in supporting its technological education programs, which prepare students for high-demand, hands-on careers. The collaboration with Ford Canada underscores the importance of industry involvement in helping students build confidence, skills, and pathways to success.
