A unique investment in future operations

When a student aspires to work in the automotive industry, learning about the field requires unique supplies and expertise - especially when compared to a traditional high school classroom. Thus, support from a local business is an integral component in that student’s journey. A few companies, like LKQ, consider their educational efforts as an investment in their business. 

“These students are the future of the automotive industry,” said Nicole Butcher, LKQ/Keystone automotive salvage warehouse supervisor. “Any knowledge or tools shared can only be helpful to the programs.”

LKQ’s Buffalo location has been an asset to high school students in the P-TECH RACE and automotive programs at Erie 1 BOCES. LKQ is the largest provider of alternative collision and mechanical replacement products.

“Their many years of donating parts and supplies has positively impacted the learning environment in our career and technical centers,” said Lori Smith, PTECH supervisor at Erie 1 BOCES.

 The students have benefited from donations such as engines, doors, and front ends of vehicles.

 “With the variety of resources LKQ donated to us, students have had true hands-on experiences,” Smith continued. “They can dissect, rebuild, and understand the inner workings of such components. These experiences will benefit them well in the future.”

LKQ also provides internships and employment opportunities for high school students. In addition, Butcher volunteers her time as a member of Erie 1 BOCES' advisory committee and provides useful insight for ongoing program development.

“I am a big supporter of Erie 1 BOCES’ career programs,” Butcher said.

Erie 1 BOCES nominated LKQ for the Niagara Frontier Industry Education Council (NFIEC) Commitment to Education Award, which it received this spring.

“Our organization is indebted to LKQ and Nicole Butcher’s continuous commitment to our partnership and to the education of Western New York’s youth,” Smith concluded.

About Erie 1 BOCES

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 PTECH RACE, automotive tech or automotive collision, should visit www.e1b.org/cte or speak with their high school counselor.