RELEASE DATE: February 26, 2004

CONTACT: Valerie E. Martinez

Phone: 909-445-1001, FAX: 909-445-1022

Rio Hondo Receives Statewide Honor for Exemplary

Auto Technology Program

Whittier- Implementing creative and innovative strategies, along with strong partnerships with businesses and industries has earned Rio Hondo’s Automotive Technology Program the “Outstanding Program Award for 2004” from the California Community College Association for Occupational Education (CCCAOE). The award is presented to just one community college, out of all the occupational programs throughout the 108 California Community Colleges.

The award will be presented to administrators, faculty members and staff from Rio Hondo during the CCCAOE’s spring conference in San Francisco on March 4^th.

“We are thrilled that our Automotive Technology Program is getting the attention it deserves- it is really one of the best keep secrets at the college,” said Dean of Vocational Education & Program Development Dr. Lyla Eddington. “Students in our program receive high-quality training with state-of-the-art equipment, paving the way toward a successful career in auto-related industries. In fact, our Automotive Technology Program not only lands students new jobs, but many already in the field attend the Automotive Technology Program to move up lucrative career ladders."

While nominations for this year’s “Outstanding Program Award” were received from many of the CCCAOE’s 500 members, Rio Hondo’s Automotive Technology Program was ultimately selected because it best meets the association’s four criteria for excellence:

· Demonstrating an innovative approach or new thinking to occupational education or economic development;

· Demonstrating initiative and leadership, promoting collaborative efforts among public and private sectors;

· Providing leadership toward the growth of occupational education or economic development; and,

· Achieving significant learning outcomes.

Rio Hondo offers associate's degrees in automotive technology as well as four different certificates of achievement in Brake Service, Engine Repair, Transmission Service and Bosch Systems. The college’s instructional staff has extensive industry experience and factory training, and all staff members are certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.

In addition, thanks to a partnership with Honda, auto technology students also learn how to work on complex hybrid and alternative fuel vehicles making them highly sought after by employers throughout the area.

Moreover, the strong partnerships between Rio Hondo and local businesses, industries, cities and other educational institutions have lead to both increased economic development and more job training opportunities for area residents.

Each year, the CCCAOE selects four California Community Colleges for awards in the areas of outstanding leadership, outstanding partnership, outstanding faculty member and outstanding program. The mission of the CCCAOE is to provide leadership for occupational education and economic development professionals involved in workforce development and the enhancement of California's position within a global economy.

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