Pilson Automotive Center recently partnered with LIFT Central Illinois as a founding partner of the Green Energy program facilitated by Dan Compton. As a partner, Pilson graciously donated $73,714 for the purchase of a Switch Electric Vehicle full size Kit.
The Switch Labs “Switch” Electric vehicle kit is a complete, reusable kit that allows students to engage in every aspect of electric vehicle theory, construction, maintenance, and practical operation.
This high-impact, project-based learning program challenges students to build, test, and drive a full size street legal EV as a classroom project!
Students will get an unforgettable rare class experience learning concepts of environmental sustainability, renewable energy, physics, battery chemistry and math, along with electric vehicle design, manufacturing and maintenance. This project will demonstrate an understanding of leadership in STEM, CTTE, Auto Tech, and sustainability.
Construction curriculum is flexible and can be taught in a 16 week semester, an 8 week after school, or a 2 week extensive format. Students will be building the cars at Lake Land College (they have generously partnered to give us a space to construct the kits).
There are currently just over 100 high schools and universities using 1 or more kits in their EV programs, making it a highly unique and remarkable opportunity for LIFT students.
When asked about how the partnership came about Facilitator Dan Compton stated, “I was looking for unparalleled, extraordinary experiences for my students. I found the Switch EV kit and knew that building an electric vehicle would be a program that would be unmatched compared to other high schools in the state. I approached Pilson's to see if they would have an interest in helping us with funding for our EV program. We began having really great conversations about what we could do in a partnership together and Mr. Pilson graciously offered to fund the entire kit. It is with amazing community leaders like this, that we can create amazing opportunities that will impact our kids in incredibly meaningful ways."
Aside from the donation, Pilson Auto Center will also participate in the Leadership and Green Energy Program through tours, interviews, an academic achievement award, and by offering internship opportunities to students.
“I think there is just a tremendous opportunity to impact the kids in our community and impact the community as well”, stated owner Jamie Pilson. “We are glad to be a part of it.”
The Pilson Automotive Center has been a long-time supporter of Mattoon CUSD #2 and we are beyond thankful for their partnership agreement and donation to LIFT. Their leadership will impact many student leaders in our region!