Future Auto Tech Paving Way for More Females in Field
Riley Branning is a senior from Hamburg High School and is enrolled in the Auto Technician Training program at Erie 1 BOCES Potter Career and Technical Center.
“I enrolled in BOCES because I’ve always been interested in fixing cars, since that’s what I grew up around,” Riley said. “I’ve always been amazed not only with how cars work, but many other things. I felt this would be a great class for me.”
In the fall of 2021, following graduation, Riley plans on going to college for two more years to study automotive technology and business. She hopes to open her own shop one day.
Under the instruction of Charles Shevlin Jr., Riley has learned about engine repair, steering and suspension, auto electrical, and more.
“Riley is a hard worker and is doing exceptional in the program. She checks in with me on remote days, attends every Google Meet and completes all theory work assigned each week,” said Shevlin. “When she is in the shop, she makes the most of her time.”
“This program has provided me an advantage to reach my goals by introducing me not only to how cars work and how to fix them, but also life skills on how to be professional in the workforce,” Riley said. “Being a girl, I always felt welcome in the program, and I would love to see more females in the field.”
As part of public education, Erie 1 BOCES offers a variety of career and technical programs during the regular school day to high school students in Erie County. High school students interested in learning more about how they can participate in various programs such as sports science careers, web technologies and game programming, health careers or aviation technology, should visit www.e1b.org/cte or speak with their high school counselor.