We weren’t too crazy about school, but if we would’ve had a chance to attend the new Carroll Shelby Automotive Technology Center; our scholastic career would’ve been much better. Not only would we have gotten better grades, but we would also be able to work on our own cars without phoning a friend. Check out more info on the program after the jump… 

Carroll Shelby, chairman and founder of Carroll Shelby International Inc. (CSBI.PK), and Northeast Texas Community College have created the new Carroll Shelby Automotive Technology Center to offer young people an opportunity to learn valuable skills in the automotive field. The program will include a state-of-the-art facility and instruction in automotive and body repair.

The Carroll Shelby Automotive Technology Program is expected to enroll the first class in Fall 2008. This intensive, hands-on program is designed to train mechanics to enter the workforce immediately upon graduation.

“I want to help young people improve their lives through the industry that has been so good to me,” said Mr. Shelby. “By giving them valuable new skills, they can be proud, productive members of society.”

The program will be housed in a new automotive facility which features a climate controlled shop space, lifts, paint booth, three classrooms with roll-up doors to bring in cars, office and shower/changing rooms. The curriculum will include real-life experience, as students will build an automobile during their last semester. The goal is for these cars to be autographed by Mr. Shelby and sold. Proceeds of the sale will be used to help sustain the program.

The college is actively seeking a program Chair. That individual will be charged with building on the current programs, which include the AAS degree in Automotive Repair, an Auto Body Repair program offering a one year certificate or a two year AAS degree and a Diesel program offering three certificates and a two-year AAS degree.

“This gift is truly a unique opportunity for NTCC,” noted Dr. Herbert Riedel, NTCC Vice President for Instruction and Student Development. “The partnership with Mr. Shelby will allow us to build a world-class automotive program in Northeast Texas. It will be invaluable to our college, our region, and most importantly, to our students.”

Northeast Texas Community College has served students since 1985 in a beautiful wooded, rural setting. University-bound students have a full range of quality course offerings with many extras, such as athletics intramurals, a film series, and world-class musical performances. Through partnerships with Texas A&M University – Texarkana, Texas A&M University – Commerce and The University of Texas at Tyler, students can complete a bachelor’s degree in education, nursing, and social work at NTCC. 

In addition to the credited program, the partnership will also include various continuing education opportunities for community members. Other future projects could also include the creation of a Shelby Automobiles modification center and a test track on the NTCC campus.

Mr. Shelby and his companies will contribute a minimum of $525,000. These funds will be designated for student scholarships and support of the program. Other sponsors are expected to join the program. Additional information is available at www.ntcc.edu.