Illinois Central College Celebrates 50th Annual Power Show and Automotive Open House
East Peoria, IL (25News Now) – Illinois Central College’s East Campus recently marked the 50th anniversary of its Power Show and Automotive Open House, providing aspiring technicians with valuable hands-on experience in the automotive industry.
Throughout five decades, the event has showcased a variety of vehicles, from classic cars to the latest models, all sharing a focus on what’s under the hood. ICC emphasizes the importance of this event in giving students practical insight into automotive work as they transition from high school.
Trevor Imm, instructor and program coordinator for GM ASEP, highlighted the event’s role in connecting students with the college’s facilities and current automotive students. He noted, “It gives them an opportunity to see what it’s about and meet the instructors and our students.”
The open house also featured car manufacturing representatives who engaged with students about potential career opportunities in the automotive field. Rocky Griffin, a service manager at Sam Leman Ford, remarked on the importance of personal connections, saying, “We always tell them they can just come look up any of us at any store. We tell them where we’re from and come look us up. We’ll help them get a job.”
Over 300 students participated, honing new skills and refining existing ones to prepare for their futures in automotive careers. Organizers emphasized that while technology evolves, foundational knowledge of vehicle mechanics remains crucial.
