CASTROL HOSTS WAYNE COUNTY AUTO CLASS AT SUPERNATIONALS

CASTROL HOSTS WAYNE COUNTY AUTO CLASS AT SUPERNATIONALSWAYNE, NJ (June 16, 2010) --- On Saturday of the 41st annual United Association NHRA SuperNationals at Old Bridge Township Raceway Park students from the Wayne Township High Schools’ Automotive Technology program got a behind the scenes look at the Castrol sponsored John Force Racing operation. The group was able to watch and ask questions as the crews for all three JFR Ford Mustangs prepared for the second day of qualifying. “We have about 180 kids in the program and we brought about forty out this weekend to the SuperNationals. This was great to open their eyes and give them some new ideas about where an automotive career could take them. We can tell them about the different careers but seeing them in action makes a huge difference,�?? said instructor Steve Hopper.“Without the help of companies like Castrol we would really struggle. They do more than give us oil for our program. They coordinate days like today as well as get involved with the program at a variety of levels. We really want to thank them for supporting Wayne Township High Schools' Automotive Technology program,�?? said instructor Ken Bergen.In addition to seeing the hands-on activities the group toured the John Force Racing technology center and was given an inside look at how important weather, track conditions and communication are to the success of the 16-time NHRA Full Throttle Funny Car championship team. The group was surprised to see the wide variety of computer applications that are used to evaluate runs as well as weather forecasting.“Giving these kids the chance to see real life applications of our automotive program means everything. They need to see how broad the automotive opportunities are. It is not just turning wrenches. There is so much done on computers now plus new areas like track prep,�?? added Bergen.The Wayne Township High Schools' Automotive Technology recently finalized their Articulation Agreement with Lincoln Technical Institute. Advanced auto students from the program will now be able to transition to Lincoln Tech's advanced coursework, bypassing some intro classes. The district's automotive technology program is one of the few comprehensive high school programs in the state to be NATEF/ASE certified. Students in the advanced level courses can receive work credit while in high school towards their ASE industry certification.