For the Second Time Ever, Two Females Compete in Statewide Auto Repair Championship in Houston, TX

Texas Student Techs Team Up in Houston to Be Best in State


HOUSTON, TX--(Marketwire - April 23, 2008) -


What:          The FORD/AAA STUDENT AUTO SKILLS CONTEST is a statewide
               competition, where ten teams, comprising two students each,
               race against the clock to correctly diagnose and repair a
               deliberately 'bugged' Ford vehicle.  The best team advances
               to the state finals.  (see list of teams below)

Who:           The best of the best in high school automotive technology
               students.

Why:           Advancements in automobile safety, fuel management, and
               comfort have all led to an increasing reliance on computers
               and electronic components; therefore, today's technician
               must stay on the cutting edge of computer and electronic
               technology.

               According to the US Department of Labor, there is an
               estimated shortage of 60,000 trained service and repair
               technicians.  In 2000, there were 840,000 automotive
               technicians employed nationwide with an expected growth
               increase of 10-20% through the year 2010.

               The state champion team will earn scholarships and prizes
               and advance to the National Finals at Ford's World
               Headquarters in Dearborn, Michigan, June 22-24, 2008.

When:          Friday, April 25, 2008 @ 9:00 AM (sharp)

Where:         San Jacinto College Central, 8060 Spencer Hwy., Pasadena, TX

Participating  Amarillo Auto Tech Center (Amarillo, TX - 2 teams from
Schools:       school), Stuart Career Center (Baytown, TX), Georgetown
               High School (Georgetown, TX), Birdville Career Center
               (Haltom City, TX), Klein High School (Spring, TX),
               Automotive Technology Academy (San Antonio, TX - 2 teams
               from school), Stevens High School (San Antonio, TX),
               Seminole High School (Seminole, TX)

               The two females, Lauren Supina and Amelia Dean, attend
               Amarillo Auto Tech Center and Stevens High School,
               respectively.

Contact Information: Contact: Rose Rougeau 1.800.888.5521 ext. 6552 713.284.6552 (direct)