Toms River, NJ- On Saturday, April 20th, the first-ever Pit Stop Challenge Finale, hosted by Lester Glenn Auto Group, was a showcase of the high-caliber skills honed by technicians from their nine service centers. The competition began within each service center in late 2023, where M-Level technicians demonstrated their expertise in a series of friendly but challenging competitions, judged by their senior technicians. The winners from these initial rounds progressed to the finale, a competitive event designed to test their speed, skills, and accuracy.

Ocean County Vocational Technical School (OCVTS) had the privilege of having three of its alumni participate in this finale, with our Automotive Technology program instructors and administrators serving as judges. This participation underscores the effective, real-world training provided by OCVTS and highlights the value of our partnership with Lester Glenn Auto Group. Currently, Lester Glenn Auto Group is actively involved in nurturing our students' potential by hosting three OCVTS Automotive Cooperative Education (CE) students across their Chrysler, Jeep, Subaru, and GMC dealerships. These placements offer hands-on experience, crucial for mastering the complexities of the automotive industry. Moreover, a first-year student has secured herself a position at Lester Glenn Hyundai, working diligently after school hours and on weekends. The CE program facilitates a smooth transition from school to work, offering practical experience that significantly enhances classroom learning. Jackson Center Principal and District Automotive Department Supervisor John Biscardi, a panel judge, expressed his enthusiasm for the program's transformative impact on student development: "Seeing our students apply their learning in real-world scenarios with these companies reassures us that we are not just educating; we are empowering future innovators in automotive technology," Biscardi stated.

The finale was a testament to the excellence and professionalism of all competitors, who represented themselves and their service centers admirably. We are exceptionally proud of each participant, especially our OCVTS alumni, who reflect the rigorous training and high standards of our programs. The full list of participants includes:

1. Iain Hospes – Lester Glenn Buick GMC (OCVTS Jackson Alumni)
2. Jason Ramos – Lester Glenn Ford
3. Tyler Smolski – Lester Glenn Chevrolet of Freehold
4. Jared Hollins – Lester Glenn Chevrolet
5. Yonathan Saavedra – Lester Glenn Hyundai
6. Jack Landwehrle – Lester Glenn Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM FIAT (OCVTS Brick Alumni)
7. Ryan Krupinski – Lester Glenn Subaru (OCVTS Waretown Alumni)
8. Ricardo Sacramento – Lester Glenn Mazda
9. Ken Reynolds – Lester Glenn Honda

Special congratulations to the top performers of the competition:
• 1st Place: Yonathan Saavedra from Lester Glenn Hyundai
• 2nd Place: Tyler Smolski from Lester Glenn Chevrolet of Freehold
• 3rd Place: Ken Reynolds from Lester Glenn Honda

We extend our gratitude to all the technicians for their dedication and hard work, showcased not only during the competition but in their daily professional contributions. This event was not only a celebration of technical skill but also of the community, education, and the strong relationship between OCVTS and Lester Glenn Auto Group.

Looking forward to next year's competition, we are excited to continue supporting our students in a hands-on learning environment that prepares them for successful careers in the automotive industry. Congratulations again to all the participants who made this event a memorable and educational experience for everyone involved!



About Ocean County Vocational Technical School
Ocean County Vocational Technical School provides an intensive and immersive educational experience aligned with the current and emerging demands of business, industry, and advanced education. We instill the knowledge, skills, and competencies required for students to experience success in entering the workforce, advancing along a career pathway, and achieving career aspirations. Please visit www.ocvts.org to learn more.