Odessa College's Annual Car Show: Revving Up Community Connections and Student Opportunities

Odessa College is gearing up for its third annual car show, a celebration of automotive enthusiasts, community partnerships, and student success. This highly anticipated event showcases a diverse array of vehicles, from classic to modern, muscle cars to low-riders, and everything in between. The car show not only delights attendees but also serves as a platform to support the college's auto tech program and honor the memory of a beloved student.

Driving Towards a Brighter Future for Odessa's Auto Tech Students

Expanding Horizons for Automotive Enthusiasts

Odessa College's car show has become a highly anticipated annual event, drawing in a growing number of participants and spectators each year. This year's edition promises to be the biggest yet, with an estimated 150 to 200 vehicles on display across 41 different classes. From vintage classics to the latest automotive innovations, the car show offers something for every automotive enthusiast.The event's success can be attributed to the college's commitment to fostering community engagement and providing valuable opportunities for its auto tech students. "This is our third year to have this community event, and it has grown every year," said Rob Turner, the Auto Diesel Technology Department Chair. "The vision for the auto diesel technology program and the OC Sewell Auto Tech facility has been to benefit the general public and the students in our program. This event is one of the ways that we do that."

Honoring a Fallen Student's Legacy

The car show also serves as a poignant tribute to the memory of Elijah Barrera, a member of the first group of the Automotive Student Service Education Training program who tragically passed away in a motorcycle accident shortly after graduating in May 2022. In his honor, the Elijah Barrera Memorial Scholarship was established, with proceeds from the car show going directly to support current and future students in the auto diesel program."We are fortunate to have community partners such as Sewell Family of Companies, Rogers Ford of Midland, Warren CAT, Summit Fleet, Chevron Fab Lab, and others who support our students, graduates and the program," Turner added. "They also work together generously to cover all costs of the Car Show, so that all of the proceeds may go to the Elijah Barrera Memorial Scholarship for our students."

Fostering Partnerships and Opportunities

The car show serves as a platform for Odessa College to showcase its strong partnerships with industry leaders and organizations. Representatives from the college, community partners, and other companies and organizations, such as Odessa Fire Rescue, will be on hand to provide attendees with information about the various opportunities available to students and graduates in the auto tech field."This event is one of the ways that we do that," Turner emphasized, highlighting the college's commitment to bridging the gap between education and real-world employment. By connecting students with potential employers and industry experts, the car show opens doors to internships, apprenticeships, and future career prospects, ensuring that Odessa's auto tech graduates are well-equipped to thrive in the dynamic automotive industry.

Revving Up Community Engagement

Beyond the impressive display of vehicles, the Odessa College Car Show is a celebration of the local community's passion for all things automotive. The event provides a unique opportunity for car enthusiasts to come together, share their love for their prized possessions, and connect with like-minded individuals."This is a community event, and it has grown every year," Turner remarked, underscoring the college's commitment to fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among automotive enthusiasts. By inviting the public to participate and enjoy the showcase, Odessa College is not only promoting its auto tech program but also strengthening the bonds between the college and the surrounding community.The third annual Odessa College Car Show promises to be a must-attend event for anyone with a passion for automobiles. From the diverse array of vehicles on display to the opportunities for students and the community, this celebration of all things automotive is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who attend.