Huntington Beach, Calif. — Representatives from more than 60 Honda PACT (Professional Automotive Career Training) programs across the nation gathered at Golden West College on July 23–24 for the 2024 Honda PACT Educators Conference.
The annual conference featured updates on program initiatives, instructor professional development for new tools, test drives of new Honda electric vehicles and networking opportunities for faculty and administrators. A conference awards dinner was held on July 24 at the Hilton hotel in Costa Mesa, where automotive technology faculty John Kasabian was awarded the “Challenging Spirit” award by the Honda PACT team.
The Honda PACT program offers automotive technician training that enables students to become Honda- and Acura-certified technicians. As part of the two-year program, students are required to complete a paid internship at a Honda or Acura dealership within their surrounding area, which often turns into full-time employment following completion of the program.
“We were excited and honored to be asked to host this year’s Honda PACT Educators conference at GWC,” says Dean of Career Education and Business Dorsie Brooks. “The event was a great success and highlights the mutual partnerships between community colleges and industry partners.”
As a Honda PACT partner, GWC receives cars, tools and job placement for students. Honda recently loaned 12 new vehicles to the College’s automotive technology program for students to practice on.
“Over the years, GWC has been recognized as a regional leader in educating the next generation of Honda and Acura technicians, and being selected to host this year’s conference underscores that,” says Dean Brooks.
Above Photo: Dean Brooks, automotive technology faculty Mike Russell, Coast Community College District Board President Lorraine Prinsky, and GWC President Meridith Randall met with students and visitors at the Honda PACT Educators Conference at GWC
