Inspiring the Next Generation: How Camp DRIVE Is Shaping Future Automotive Professionals [THA 386]

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Tenise and Weston Chapman, owners of Black Hills Tire in Rapid City, South Dakota, discuss their initiative, Camp Drive. This hands-on camp introduces young people to the automotive industry through engaging activities like brake and alignment modules, electrical scans, and engine performance sessions. The Chapmans discuss the Camp's positive impact on participants, support from local schools and businesses, and plans for expansion. They highlight the importance of inspiring the next generation of automotive professionals and the enthusiastic feedback from both kids and parents.

Tenise and Weston Chapman, Black Hills Tire, Rapid City, SD. Listen to previous episodes HERE

Show Notes


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Camp Drive Concept (00:01:50) Introduction to Camp Drive initiative, its purpose, and the importance of skilled trades for young people.
Camp Drive Activities (00:03:08) Description of the activities and sessions at Camp Drive, including the waiting list for participation.
Engaging the Participants (00:05:19) Discussion on the hands-on activities and the excitement of the participants during the camp.
Parent and Community Feedback (00:08:31) Feedback from parents and the community regarding the impact of Camp Drive on the participants.
Support and Sponsorship (00:11:02) Support from aftermarket suppliers, tool companies, and businesses, as well as the non-profit status of the initiative.
Expanding Camp Drive (00:12:14) Expansion of Camp Drive to include more stations and activities, including welding and HVAC modules.
Logistics and Community Support (00:14:01) Management of time and community involvement in providing additional experiences for the participants.
Engagement and Participation (00:15:02) The engagement of participants and the approach to ensuring their focus and involvement during the camp activities.
The smiling and excited kids (00:15:42) A discussion about a young participant's enthusiasm and transformation during the camp.
Interviewing students and industry encouragement (00:19:13) The importance of encouraging young people to pursue careers in the automotive industry.
Dane's experience and career aspirations (00:24:28) An interview with a student, Dane, who shares his experience at the camp and expresses his career aspirations in the automotive industry.
Savannah's interest in welding and automotive technology (00:31:44) An interview with Savannah, who shares her interest in welding and her experience at the camp.
The competition (00:33:22) Discussion about an upcoming competition and the number of teams participating.
Exploring different stations (00:33:39)The various stations at the camp, including HVAC, alignment, scanning, engines, welding, changing tires, and changing oil.
Learning about automotive skills (00:34:10) The participant talks about learning to change oil, spark plugs, and brakes, and gaining knowledge about suspensions and spark plugs.
Impact of the Camp (00:35:24) A participant shares their positive experience at the camp and how they learned about it through radio...