The McNeil High School Automotive Technology program recently received an $80,000 donation of supplies from a local NAPA Auto Parts store, a gift that will go a long way in supporting student learning and hands-on training opportunities.
Head Automotive Teacher at McNeil, Ryan Arnold, said the donation came as a complete surprise when the store contacted the campus about contributing its remaining inventory before closing. Because the products had already been opened, they couldn’t be returned to the manufacturer.
“To give you an idea of what the donation was, if you walk into an auto parts store and see all of the oil and all of the sprays and chemicals and ATF and coolant and that kind of stuff, that’s what we got,” said Arnold.
The donation arrived on nine pallets, which the McNeil automotive technology team picked up and transported using trailers and equipment available through the program.
“Automotive is one of the most expensive programs because our equipment is so expensive. Every program has to tighten its belt a little each year, and donations like this help us keep training our students properly while continuing to grow,” said Arnold.
The supplies will be used for both classroom instruction and fundraising efforts. Students in McNeil’s advanced automotive classes will perform basic maintenance services, such as oil changes, for staff and students, and will use the proceeds to help fund competitions like SkillsUSA.
“This allows us to train students on real-world service jobs while also generating money for travel, parts, paint, and materials for the projects our students build and present,” Arnold said.
Because the donation was larger than what McNeil’s program can use alone, Arnold said they plan to share some of the products with neighboring district schools so other students in the area can also benefit.
“We’re very grateful to NAPA Auto Parts for their generosity,” he said. “And we appreciate the support from Round Rock ISD in helping us provide opportunities for students to learn and prepare for careers in the automotive industry.”