Honda PACT at Gateway Community College

11/04/2024

Testing Thermostat Operation!

10/23/2024

Meet Valerie: Turning Passion into a Career in Automotive Technology 🚗🔧

Valerie’s journey into the world of cars started in her childhood, growing up immersed in car culture alongside her brothers. From attending car shows like the New York Auto Show to watching her brother work on his own car, Valerie’s curiosity and love for automotive engineering only grew stronger.

When it came time to pursue higher education, Valerie chose CT State Gateway for its flexibility and affordability. She didn’t want the traditional dorm experience but instead sought the opportunity to balance work, study, and her future in the automotive industry. The Honda PACT program at Gateway was the perfect fit, offering her hands-on training and a direct path into the field.

As the only woman in her class, Valerie found a supportive and inclusive environment that helped her thrive. “I was really fortunate to work and study with amazing classmates and instructors,” she shared. “They didn’t treat me any differently because I was a girl—they just wanted to see me succeed.”

Her time at Gateway was filled with internships that gave her invaluable real-world experience, all while pursuing her studies with an impressive 3.96 GPA. A scholarship from the Gateway Community College Foundation provided her with a fully-equipped toolbox, removing a major financial barrier and giving her the tools she needed to confidently enter the workforce.

Now a successful graduate, Valerie continues to use her skills not only in her professional life but also to help her family with car repairs, saving them the cost of a mechanic. “It’s rewarding to be able to give back to my family in that way,” she says.

Reflecting on her experience, Valerie is grateful for the support and opportunities she received at Gateway. Her story is a testament to the power of community, determination, and following your passion.

Ready to drive your passion? Learn more about Gateway's Automotive programs and how you can support students like Valerie!

https://ctstate.edu/locations/gateway
https://gatewayfdn.org/giving/

09/25/2024

We have a BIG freshman class this semester! And a BIG thanks to the Honda New England Training Center for their generous donations!

01/31/2024

Our Ladies Rock! Here we have Jolene replacing her thermostat and gasket on her Element! Always wash your hands after you're done working!

01/18/2024

Congratulations to our star student Valerie Builes on her Scholarship Award with a new Sonic Tools Tool Box filled with Sonic Tools!🎉🏁🎉🏁🎉

Professor Vertucci and I are proud of your continued efforts! And we know this will help you at Curtis Ryan Honda!

09/14/2023

First and Second Year Students at it already in Drivetrain Systems Lab! Welcome Back! 😎

05/25/2023

Graduation Day!
Best of Luck to all our Students!

02/10/2023

Well deserved!

Congratulations to our star student Valerie Builes on her Scholarship Award with a new Sonic Tools Tool Box filled with Sonic Tools!🎉🏁🎉🏁🎉

Professor Vertucci and I are proud of your continued efforts! And we know this will help you at Curtis Ryan Honda!