World of Outlaws Drivers Share Experience and Profession with Milton Hershey School
On Thursday, May 12, World of Outlaws professional dirt track drivers, Spencer Bayston, David Gravel, and Brock Zearfoss as well as CEO, Brian Carter, spent time at Milton Hershey School, speaking with high school students interested in the automotive technology field.
As part of this experience, Carter and his team went on a tour of campus, learned about the school’s mission, and shared their industry experience with students firsthand.
“It is amazing to see what happens here at Milton Hershey School,” Carter said. “Our drivers have local connections to the school, and it is wonderful to interact and share our collective experience with the students.”
Zearfoss, Dauphin County native, grew up 15 minutes from MHS and believes in the hands-on opportunities that the school gives its students through the Career and Technical Education program. He and his fellow drivers spoke about the racing industry and encouraged students to continue honing their mechanical skills as it will make them well-rounded.
Each driver encouraged the students to follow their own path, whether it be to college or into a trade. Zearfoss adds, “There are opportunities out there for you. If you have a dream, keep your head down and work hard towards it. It is possible and I’m a living form of that.”
Tia Willis-Cooper, MHS junior, participated in the question-and-answer session and left the event feeling inspired and ready to take on her career in mechanical engineering.
“It was really cool to hear the drivers’ perspectives on our field and see the inner workings of their race cars,” Tia said. “I realized that the skills I am learning now will translate into other areas of my life beyond my career.”
After the presentation, students in the automotive class took part in a hands-on activity with the drivers, testing cars for a Pennsylvania State Inspection. Gravel, who has spent many years working on cars, shared his insider tricks on how to detect errors in the vehicle.
Outside of the classroom, the entire MHS community was invited to meet the drivers next to their race cars and interact with the World of Outlaws team. Students from each division got autographs, saw a racing demo, and even sat behind the wheel of different cars—with drivers answering questions nearby.
MHS prides itself on providing our students with opportunities to learn about careers that align with each student’s interests and talents. Learn more about the Graduate Programs for Success Division and how MHS prepares its students for life after graduation.