DAVIE, FL– The Broward Education Foundation and Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) celebrated a transformative $100,000 donation from the Advance Auto Parts Foundation to strengthen the Automotive Technology Program at McFatter Technical College & High School.
The gift includes professional-grade tools and financial support that will help students earn industry-recognized Automotive Service Excellence certifications and prepare for high-demand careers in the automotive and diesel industries.
Representatives from the Broward Education Foundation, the Advance Auto Parts Foundation, Broward County Public Schools and McFatter Technical College & High School joined students and instructors to celebrate the donation and highlight the importance of industry partnerships that create pathways to skilled trades careers.
“The demand for skilled automotive technicians continues to grow, and our partnership with the Broward Education Foundation and McFatter Technical College reflects Advance’s commitment to helping meet that demand through workforce readiness,” said Todd Davenport, president of the Advance Auto Parts Foundation and senior vice president, real estate and development at Advance. “Our goal is to help equip students with the skills, experiences and confidence they need to succeed in today’s workforce and beyond while also creating opportunities to coach and grow talent in the communities we serve.”
“Strong workforce partnerships are essential to preparing students for successful careers in industries that are critical to our economy,” said James A. Knapp, president and CEO of Broward Education Foundation. “We are grateful to the Advance Auto Parts Foundation for this extraordinary investment in McFatter Technical College & High School’s Automotive Technology Program. By helping students earn industry credentials and access the tools they need to succeed, this gift will create opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom and into lifelong careers.”
“This partnership represents the kind of real-world opportunity that transforms students’ futures. By investing in industry certifications, hands-on training and the tools professionals use every day, we are ensuring our students graduate prepared for high-demand careers that strengthen our local and national economy,” said BCPS Superintendent Dr. Howard Hepburn. “We are grateful to the Advance Auto Parts Foundation for supporting our commitment to expanding career and technical education pathways and opening doors for every student to succeed.”
Skilled automotive technicians continue to be in high demand across South Florida and the nation. The support from the Advance Auto Parts Foundation will help students develop the technical skills, certifications and hands-on experience needed to enter the workforce with confidence.
The partnership underscores the shared commitment of Broward Education Foundation, Broward County Public Schools and the Advance Auto Parts Foundation to expanding career and technical education opportunities and building a strong pipeline of skilled professionals for the future.
To learn more about McFatter Technical College & High School Automotive Technology Program, visit: mcfattertechnicalcollege.edu/automotive-service-technology/.
About Broward Education Foundation
The nonprofit Broward Education Foundation aligns with Broward County Public Schools by providing grants for teachers who develop innovative curriculum that increases student outcomes; vitally needed school supplies for students and teachers in Title I schools; scholarships for qualified high school seniors; and support for programs and initiatives like Debate, TurnAround Arts, STEM and more. Each year, Broward Education Foundation contributes nearly $5 million to Broward County schools, serving as the catalyst for educational excellence. For information visit Broward Education Foundation, email BEFInfo@browardschools.com, like or follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn.
About Advance Auto Parts Foundation: The Advance Auto Parts Foundation is the charitable arm of Advance Auto Parts, focused on advancing careers, strengthening communities and supporting the places where team members live and work. It supports programs that drive employment opportunities in the auto aftermarket sector and that help military personnel transition into civilian life or develop professionally
