Students enrolled in the powersports and engine technology program at York County School of Technology demonstrated their practical skills during a small engine rebuilding competition, showcasing the increasing importance of career and technical education throughout Pennsylvania.
Daniel Brookshire and Ethan Gladfelter, both seniors in York Tech’s powersports program, were the first team to complete the task after racing against the clock to fully disassemble and reassemble an engine.
“We spent about 3 weeks preparing,” Brookshire said. “We took apart an engine similar to this one around 10 times over the course of those three weeks, and we kept improving, getting faster each time. I think today was actually our fastest time ever.”
Gladfelter described the experience as fast-paced and exciting, stating he was “very impressed” and “pumped.” The competition brought together students from various career and technical schools, emphasizing the importance of precision, teamwork, and technical knowledge. Gladfelter noted that the program has helped him develop skills far beyond basic maintenance.
“I came in knowing just the basics, like oil changes and spark plug replacements, but now I can take apart these engines and put them back together without any issues,” he said.
York County School of Technology offers 26 career and technical programs, integrating hands-on instruction with traditional academic courses. Educators report that interest in these programs is on the rise.
“We receive approximately 1,400 applications for around 500 spots each year,” said powersports educator Michael Spahr.
Spahr explained that students gain valuable skills that prepare them for real-world careers while still completing academic coursework.
“They not only learn academics, but they also gain knowledge that will benefit them in their future careers,” he said.
Administrators emphasize that students are not required to choose between technical training and academic studies.
“We still offer an IB curriculum and an honors curriculum, so students receive both their academic education and a technical degree,” said Academy Principal Sarah Koveleski.
The growing interest in career and technical education coincides with Governor Josh Shapiro’s proposed budget, which includes a $5.5 million increase for such programs statewide. State Representative Joe D’Orsie (R-York), a long-time advocate for school choice, believes access to diverse educational paths is essential for student success.
“Our children deserve the best possible education we can provide. For some, that may be public school, others might prefer a specialized academy, private school, charter school, cyber charter school, or homeschool co-op,” D’Orsie said. “Educational options are beneficial, and limiting Pennsylvania students’ freedom to excel will not help prepare them for college or the workforce.”
For Brookshire and Gladfelter, the competition offered a glimpse into their future after graduation in a few months.
“It’s amazing to think about how quickly we’ll be entering the field now,” Brookshire said. “I’m going to miss it here.”