Automotive designer and TV personality Rich Evans of Huntington Beach Bodyworks, autographs posters for students following his presentation at Waubonsee Community College.

Chicago Pneumatic, a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of high-performance aftermarket tools, accessories and compressors, and Tomorrow’s Technician (T2) awarded the inaugural T2 School of Year Award presented by Chicago Pneumatic to Waubonese Community College in Sugar Grove, IL, on April 16.

Waubonese Community College received a plaque, $7,000 worth of Chicago Pneumatic tools, and shirts, hats, pens and other items commemorating their achievement, from Chicago Pneumatic and Babcox Publications, whose T2 trade magazine is dedicated to the education of future technicians.

“We’re extremely proud to be involved in honoring schools across the nation that display a great sense of leadership and excellence in the development of young automotive technicians,” said Jay Lewis, general manager Charlotte Operations & Vehicle Service Americas for Chicago Pneumatic.

The partnership between Chicago Pneumatic and Babcox was built from a mutual desire to assist in the education of young technicians and to recognize the efforts of teachers, students and schools nationwide.

“Babcox and Tomorrow’s Technician share Chicago Pneumatic’s dedication to technical training and safety,” said Beth Skove, associate publisher at Babcox. “Through this process we’ve had the chance to learn about the great programs at more than 170 schools across the country, strengthening our already robust belief in the quality of technician education.”

Waubonsee Community College automotive course instructors Ken Kunz and Jim Armitage receive the inaugural T2 School of Year Award from Beth Skove, associate publisher of Tomorrow’s Technician magazine.

This award is not the first for Waubonese Community College. In 2007 the program was ranked first nationally by the Automotive Industry Planning Council (AIPC), and as a member of Vocational Industrial Clubs of America, students have placed in the top three in state SkillsUSA competitions 16 times since 1995. Course instructors Ken Kunz and Jim Armitage supervise the school’s NAETF-certified coursework, which includes classroom instruction and live work on faculty and student-owned vehicles, preparing students to work in a real shop environment.

“We’re honored to be recognized by Chicago Pneumatic and Tomorrow’s Technician as the 2008 School of Year,” Kunz said. “This award is a reflection of the administration’s support of the program, and our students’ determination, willingness to learn and drive to succeed in this industry.”

The award presentation at Waubonese Community College included a surprise visit from automotive designer and TV personality Rich Evans of Huntington Beach Bodyworks. Evans was onsite during the ceremony to meet the students, conduct tool demonstrations, and answer questions about the automotive repair industry.

“As a public figure in the automotive repair and design industry, I feel it’s crucial to encourage and pass along as much knowledge as possible to the next generation of technicians,” Evans said. “It’s always great to spend time with students who are truly dedicated to bettering our profession.”

More than 170 schools entered the competition for School of the Year honors, including the other three regional finalists: Tennessee Tech Center in Newbern, TN; North Central Technical Skills Center in Wenatchee, WA; and the Sultana High School Automotive Tech Program in Hesperia, CA. Each of these schools will receive $2,000 worth of specially discounted Chicago Pneumatic tools, finalist plaques, and Chicago Pneumatic and Tomorrow’s Technician gear.

Chicago Pneumatic (CP) is a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of high-performance tools, hydraulic attachments, industrial and portable compressors and associated accessories and workshop equipment. Since 1901, The CP brand has served the Vehicle Service, Construction and Industrial marketplace. To learn more about CP’s dedication to pioneering design and high-performance technology, visit www.cp.com.