FIT Graduation

Findlay Automotive Congratulates the Graduates of the Standards of Excellence Academy

The Findlay Automotive has long supported Foundation for an Independent Tomorrow (FIT). The Standards of Excellence Academy makes advanced learning opportunities accessible to Southern Nevadans by providing training and certification programs. Findlay employees helped to develop the curriculum for The Standard’s of Excellence Academy’s automotive program. The class that graduated was comprised of students from both the automotive technology class and the phlebotomy class. Findlay Chevrolet’s John Gonzales works alongside previous graduates and is passionate about vocational training. As a long-time mentor for people looking for good direction Gonzalez has previously said, “The great thing about [FIT] is that it appeals to people of all ages…” 

The Academy offers students a gateway to career advancement in jobs and occupations that are in demand. The Academy is a non-profit school established by Founder and CEO, Janet Blumen. The organization, as a subsidiary of the Foundation for an Independent Tomorrow. The Academy is accredited by the Nevada Commission on Post-Secondary Education. In speaking about the program and the graduates, Blumen said, “The program is very intense and… we’re really proud of them and we’re proud of the Findlay Automotive Group and the connection we’ve made... It’s was what makes the program so unique and so successful is the collaboration with Findlay because of the fact that the students can right from the beginning get hands-on experience.”  

What is unique about this graduation is the phlebotomy class.  This is a critical piece of medical care provided that is understaffed and often overwhelmed. During graduation, Findlay Automotive Group CFO Tyler Corder shared that when he served as Chairman of the American Red Cross in Southern Nevada occasionally blood drives were cancelled because of the lack of phlebotomists. Corder said, “Five years ago tomorrow was the 1 October [shooting]. During that time, we used up the entire blood supply in the state. We had people lined up around to donate blood but we didn’t have enough phlebotomists.”  It is remarkable that the Academy is able to see this local need and help provide additional resources to better the community. Likewise, the automotive technology class is continuing the tradition of excellence.  This class will also help address the industry-wide shortage of technicians  In an increasingly competitive work environment, both the Academy and Findlay recognize that it is imperative for individuals to have unique skills and certifications to set them apart.  Truly, this program - and others like it - can be instrumental in changing a person’s life. Corder said, “The FIT vocational training programs provide students with the skills necessary to get a good paying job to become self-sufficient and to provide for their families. It’s a tremendous program that helps individuals but also helps the community and reduces the need for public assistance. I’m proud to serve on the board for this incredible organization.” Gonzalez agreed stating, “One graduate started as a high school student when I first met him. He was interested in the program and began working for me as a lot attendant before the class.” “These two [FIT] programs develop people for good paying jobs in critical industries. Automotive technicians are vital to the auto industry and the transportation system. Phlebotomists are critical to the medical industry and to the nation’s blood supply. We’re really happy for our graduates and wish them much success as they move into positions in their chosen fields.” Corder said.

To learn more about Standards of Excellence Academy please visit their website https://standardsofexcellencelv.org/ Findlay Automotive Group began with one location more than 60 years ago. The group now includes 37 dealerships in Nevada, Arizona Utah, Idaho, Washington and California. Learn more at www.FindlayAuto.com