Ocean County, NJ- Ocean County Vocational Technical School (OCVTS) hosted its annual Automotive Career Fair on Wednesday, May 13th at the OCVTS Jackson Campus. The event connected over 300 students from OCVTS' automotive programs with 20 leading companies from the automotive industry. These students, who are trained and skilled in various automotive technologies, came prepared with resumes, ready to engage with potential employers. Representatives from automotive companies were accepting resumes and applications on-site and discussing immediate and future career opportunities.

Trade schools like OCVTS play a crucial role in addressing the growing demand for skilled workers in the automotive industry. OCVTS offers a variety of trade programs in automotive-related fields, such as Diesel Engine Technology, Automotive Technology, Collision Repair, Auto Servicing, Auto Collision Welding, Principles of Transportation Mechanics, and Intro to Auto Tech. These programs provide students with the hands-on training needed to thrive in the fast-paced and ever-evolving automotive sector.

A key aspect of OCVTS' success in preparing students for the workforce is its strong partnerships with industry leaders. These collaborations ensure that the curriculum is aligned with current automotive industry standards. The industry-backed curriculum, along with ASE-certified STEM-based programs, guarantees that students receive relevant and up-to-date training. This close relationship between trade schools and businesses helps create a seamless transition from classroom learning to real-world applications, ensuring that students are workforce-ready upon graduation.

Events like the Automotive Career Fair bridge the gap between education and employment, giving students direct access to companies eager to hire skilled workers. By connecting with industry professionals and learning about the latest technologies, students are well-positioned to launch successful careers in the automotive field.

Industry partners in attendance included Ray Catena Auto Group, Lester Glenn Auto Group, Pine Belt Automotive, OC Automotive Resources, Dashlight Solutions, OC Towing, United States Postal Service, Causeway Ford, Jay's Bus Service, Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes, VIVE Collision, NJDOT, Central Paint, First Priority Emergency Vehicles, 3M, and George Harms Construction Co.Inc., all of whom continue to support Career and Technical Education through industry collaboration, workforce development, and student engagement opportunities.



About Ocean County Vocational Technical School
Ocean County Vocational Technical School provides an intensive and immersive educational experience aligned with the current and emerging demands of business, industry, and advanced education. We instill the knowledge, skills, and competencies required for students to experience success in entering the workforce, advancing along a career pathway, and achieving career aspirations. Please visit www.ocvts.org to learn more.

Photo Credits: Meadow McCann, OCVTS Design & Visual Communications Student (DVC)