Milton Hershey School Students Learn from World of Outlaws Teams on Race Day
The Milton Hershey School partnership with World of Outlaws continues to provide opportunities for students to take what they are learning in the Career and Technical Education classes and put it into action. Recently, four high school students from the Automotive Technology pathway joined professional race teams at Williams Grove Speedway in Mechanicsburg, Pa. for an unforgettable evening in the pits.
“We got to work right away, and the teams trusted us and gave us tasks to do before and during the race,” described MHS junior Braydon Freil-Lester.
Braydon was paired with World of Outlaws driver Dylan Norris. Early in the race Norris’ engine blew, which meant that Dylan and the rest of the crew stepped up. Braydon learned how to respond to the incident, identify the issue, and work to get it resolved—which meant he applied sealant to the engine and changed wheels and shocks—before it got back on the track.
Three other pathway classmates worked with other teams during their first-time track experiences. Each demonstrated their skills and got exclusive access into the workings of the World of Outlaws teams.
“I got into the pathway because it was something interactive and I could learn life skills—like changing a tire,” said sophomore Aalyiah Bullocks who worked with driver Chad Trout. “Never thought I’d get to do that on a race car!”
For junior Karson Masser, working with driver Carson Macedo got him excited for his future and attending more races in the future.
“Someday I want to work on engines, and this confirmed that I want to go into an automotive career. I’m looking forward to getting more hands-on experience and an internship next year,” said Karson.
Senior Mecca Stever was partnered with World of Outlaws driver and MHS partner Brock Zearfoss. The Zearfoss car was outfitted specially for this week’s race to proudly display the Milton Hershey School name and Spartan mascot.
“I was in shock when I first saw the car,” described Mecca, who has interacted with World of Outlaws both on campus when drivers visited the classroom and at the Hershey Sprint Car Experience. “It was very exciting to be at the track with them this time and be part of the action. For example, taking what we do in the classroom, but now under pressure. During the race, we have to hurry but also do everything perfectly—not only are we trying to win the race, but also keep the driver safe.”
This is just one example of how MHS students are getting hands-on, real-world experiences aligned with their interests and passions. Through the career-focused education programs in all scholastic divisions, MHS helps students realize the many opportunities available to them after graduation.
Learn More about the World of Outlaws PartnershipLearn More about CTE at MHS