For Immediate Release: November 29, 2004
Media Contact: Kristen Habbestad, Public Affairs, (562) 860-2451, ext. 2287 or khabbestad@cerritos.edu
NORWALK, CA – November 29, 2004 – Cerritos College’s Center for Advanced Transportation Technology received a tool storage unit worth more than $1,000 from Matco Tools on Tuesday, November 23. Cerritos College was chosen to receive the gift after instructor Jon Bender’s name was selected by Matco representatives in a drawing for the prize.
Brian Stranahan, the company’s western regional vocational sales representative, visited the campus to deliver the 350-pound storage unit to auto instructors Bender and Tony Baron. Bender and Baron both teach in the Ford Automotive Student Service Educational Training (ASSET) program
“We make a point of providing premiere auto schools in the area with expert tools that enable them to perform their best,” said Stranahan, who has more than 20 years in the tool industry.
Stranahan also said that Matco gives students a 52-percent discount on tools, which allows the students to collect high-grade equipment that they’ll use for the extent of their career at a relatively low price.
Cerritos College has offered automotive technology training since the college began in 1955. The program consists of certificates degrees and special programs in the disciplines of automotive repair, advanced transportation technology, auto collision repair, intelligent transportation systems and alternative fuel and hybrids, making it one of the most comprehensive programs in the U.S. Students can also go on to earn a bachelor’s degree through partnerships the college has with USA programs in automotive management.
The Cerritos College Center for Advanced Transportation Technology consists of 150,000 square-foot facilities that provide students with hands-on nationally authorized training for GM, Ford and DaimlerChrysler vehicles as well as imports. The program also operates a California Advanced Transportation Technology Center that is partially subsidized by the state to encourage development of alternative fuel sources. Visit the center online at http://www.cerritos.edu/advtranstechctr/
Perhaps most impressively, Cerritos College is physically located just blocks from the world’s largest auto mall, where it partners with dealers to train and employ technicians and dealer managers. The greater Los Angeles area is home to more than 17 corporate support centers for the robust Southern California auto industry. It is also home to a number of design centers producing vehicle prototypes for future sales.
Matco Tools is a manufacturer and distributor of quality professional automotive equipment, tools and toolboxes. Visit the company online at www.matcotools.com.
For nearly 50 years, Cerritos College has served as a comprehensive community college for southeastern Los Angeles County communities including Artesia, Bellflower, Cerritos, Downey, Hawaiian Gardens, Lakewood, La Mirada and Norwalk. The college offers degrees and certificates in more than 180 areas of study in nine divisions. Annually, more than 1,200 students successfully complete their course of studies, and enrollment currently surpasses 24,000 students. Visit Cerritos College online at www.cerritos.edu.
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KH