From High School Shop To Texas Motor Speedway: Students, Skills, And A Big Win

A high school shop can change a life, and today you’ll hear how three Klein Kane students turned four years of training into a first-place finish and a ticket to Texas Motor Speedway. We sit down with instructor Henry Silva and his team to unpack what it really takes to win a professional-grade student technical competition: mentorship from a master tech, interview practice with industry pros, and a three-hour, bugged-vehicle challenge that demands composure and clean diagnostics under pressure.

Their roadmap goes far beyond a single trophy. From oscilloscopes and advanced scan tools to customer storytelling and repair documentation, the students show how modern automotive programs blend technology, communication, and hands-on skill. You’ll hear concrete next steps: diesel careers, mechanical engineering at Purdue, dealership roles, and race-team ambitions. We also dig into how inclusivity strengthens the pipeline, with dozens of young women entering the program and several already eyeing dealership positions. Scholarships flow through these events, turning hard-won skills into funded opportunities at trade schools, two-year programs, and four-year universities.

We round things out with a grounded review of the 2025 Infiniti QX60 Sport AWD. Expect a smooth ride, upscale interior, and clever headrest speakers, along with a surprising 6,000-pound tow rating. We also call out the tradeoffs: a tight third row, conservative rear styling, and moments of noticeable turbo lag paired with a 9-speed automatic. If you’re cross-shopping Acura MDX, Genesis GV80, or Lincoln Aviator, you’ll get clear, practical guidance on where the QX60 shines and where it trails the pack.

If stories like these inspire you, follow and share the show with a friend who loves cars, students, or both. Subscribe, leave a quick review, and tell us: which path would you choose—diesel tech, engineering, or the pit lane?

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