The two entities announced in a Nov. 29 news release that LSC will launch a new Automotive Lubrication Technician program in the spring. The 192-hour, six-week training course will offer an introduction to automotive technology, basic service skills and an overview of electrical systems.
The partnership will enroll and train approximately 60 students in the program each year. The first class will start in January with 10 to 20 students. After completing the course, students will receive an official certification. Upon graduation, Petra Cares will provide free auto mechanic training and job placement with its industry partners.
According to the Petra Cares website, the nonprofit organization started in 2021 as a charitable leg of Petra Automotive Products, Inc. The organization's purpose is to tackle the growing dilemma of youths transitioning out of the foster care system.
The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services reported there are nearly 2,000 children in Harris and Montgomery counties in the foster care system. The same report notes that almost half of those children will soon turn 18 and legally age out of the system.
In a joint news release with LSC, Petra Cares President Arnold Cacita said he believes education breaks that cycle of poverty.
"Petra Cares wants to be a conduit of quality education and meaningful employment to this marginalized group of young people," he said.
Connor O'Sullivan, Lone Star College Continuing Education executive director, said in the release he is excited to work with Petra Cares on this opportunity.
"Students often struggle in college due to non-academic reasons such as child care, housing and transportation costs," he said. "Petra has stepped up to help in these areas so our students can focus on learning."
Petra Cares will provide students in the program with course materials, tools, child care assistance, technical training, transportation and life skills.
LSC has a similar system in place to assist students who grew up in the foster care system called the Lone Star College Navigators, which helps with transportation, child care and housing assistance.
