By Katie Hurst
 Comstock High School was one of five high schools that participated in the 2019 SEMA High School Vehicle Build Program. The students built an ’04 Jeep Wrangler Sahara. |
The SEMA High School Vehicle Build Program is expanding to 10 builds for the 2019–2020 school year. As partners in this program, 10 high-school auto-shop classes will customize third-generation Toyota 4Runners and Jeep Wrangler TJs. The program aims to bridge the gap between industry and auto-shop students to foster the next generation of hobbyists and the automotive aftermarket workforce.
Through this hands-on build program, students will expand their real-world auto-tech skills by working with aftermarket products while being introduced to a new career path to pursue their passion for customization. The builds will begin in January, and students will complete their builds by the end of the school year.
Aftermarket companies can support this effort through parts donations and/or mentorship opportunities. Sponsors will have their product(s) installed on the vehicle(s) and receive recognition through the build website and in SEMA build promotions.
Sponsoring the SEMA High School Vehicle Build Program is not only giving high-school students a build experience of a lifetime, it’s also allowing them to open their minds to the possibilities of what can be accomplished using aftermarket products.
If you’re interested in supporting one or more of the student vehicle builds, please fill out the product donation form. If you’re interested in mentoring a school, please contact SEMA youth engagement programs manager Katie Hurst.