NCC Hosts Final Round of Automotive Troubleshooting Contest

Northampton Community College (NCC) hosted the final round of its Automotive Troubleshooting Contest on March 9 on Bethlehem campus. 

The competition welcomed high school technical students from across the region to showcase their automotive knowledge and skills. Six finalist teams—each made up of two students—earned their place in the competition after advancing through a written exam held last fall, and four of them went on the compete during the final round made up of a series of hands-on challenges. First-, second-, and third- place winners recieved trophies and prizes including hand tool sets, LED work lights, a borescope and other automotive equipment. The first-place team also received NCC scholarships and a vehicle donation for their school. 

Participating teams represented Berks Career & Technology Center East, Bethlehem Area Vocational-Technical School, Monroe Career & Technical Institute, and Carbon Career & Technical Institute.  

Judging was based on workmanship, speed, and accuracy. Students demonstrated their abilities across several areas of automotive technology, including brake testing, engine diagnosis, electrical systems, and state inspection procedures. 

An awards banquet followed the competition. Principals, vocational directors, and parents of the contestants attended the event to celebrate the students’ accomplishments.  

The demand for skilled automotive technicians continues to grow throughout the region. Events like the Automotive Troubleshooting Contest provide students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios while gaining valuable experience. 

“This was a wonderful opportunity to engage high school students as they considered their next steps,” said Kevin Casey. “We gave them a tour and showed them what we can offer here at NCC.” 

Participants and Winners: 

1st Place - Monroe: Matthew Duncan, Dane Hedgelon, Chad Snyder (Instructor)  
2nd Place - Bethlehem: Cole Stefano, Brad Silfies, Jeff Cantrel (Instructor) 
3rd Place - Carbon: Lucas Miller, Nickolas Hatz, Hal Resh (Instructor) 
Berks: William McIlwain, Andrew Detweiler, Dustin Mauger (Instructor)