GHS automotive students tour a career pathway

Students visit school bus autoshop, learn about field of transportation

Gresham High School automotive class students visited the offices and autoshop of GBSD’s transportation services provider, First Student, to learn more about a career as a school bus technician. 

The shop manager took the students on a tour of the autoshop to learn how the shop runs, the tools used, and what a typical day would look like. They spoke with bus technicians about their backgrounds as mechanics and why they decided to focus their careers on school buses. 

"Getting to see real techs in action and asking questions about their jobs made it clear that there are so many possible paths they can take in the automotive world,” said GHS automotive class instructor Morgan McKae Patterson. 

“I’m especially thankful to those who guided us through our student transportation support system, giving us a new perspective on the behind-the-scenes work it takes to get students to and from school safely. I think we all have a newfound appreciation for their hard work."

The shop manager walked students through the technical skills and expertise needed to secure a technician role. He discussed the experience he desires in a candidate, highlighting that passion and energy can make a big difference. 

“We definitely hope to continue this program moving forward,” said First Student Location Manager Tammy Rickman. “It was not only beneficial to the students, it was clearly enjoyed by all here at First [Student].“

This kind of hands-on experience helps broaden students’ understanding of potential career opportunities with the skills they are currently learning.