A group of young women in Volusia County’s Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs got an unforgettable, hands-on experience at New Smyrna Speedway—thanks to Northern Tool + Equipment and their Tools for the Trades program.
Fifty female students enrolled in Career & Technical Education courses in Volusia County attended the practice day for the vintage motorcycle race, Sons of Speed, founded by Billy Lane. They met with a group of female professionals to learn about their path into trades-related careers and how those careers are in high demand.
The following is a press release from Northern Tool + Equipment…
Photos Courtesy of Northern Tool + Equipment
A group of 50 female high school students from Volusia County’s Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs got hands-on experience in the trades at the Sons of Speed vintage motorcycle race. The event was part of Northern Tool + Equipment’s Tools for the Trades program, designed to fuel a growing interest in trade careers. The group was guided by female professionals already working in the field.
“I’ve been a part of several Tools for the Trade events, and they all have been inspiring,” says Billy Lane, Sons of Speed founder. “Having a group of young women that are passionate about the trades brought an awesome and hopeful energy to the track this weekend.”
Students learned from four women thriving in various, in-demand trade careers:
- Jody Perewitz: World-class custom painter, land-speed record holder and vintage motorcycle racer.
- Shelly Rossmeyer Pepe: Former Harley-Davidson dealership owner and general manager.
- Marilyn Stemp: Writer, editor & photographer specializing in motorcycle industry media.
- Dystany Spurlock: Female over-the-road truck driver who also races in NHRA events on weekends.
“I know the importance of breaking barriers in male-dominated industries,” said Dystany Spurlock, over-the-road truck driver, and weekend NHRA racer. “This amazing event gave young women the chance to get hands-on experience in the trades, proving they belong in any field they choose. I hope it inspires them to chase their passions.”
Jody Perewitz, world-class custom painter, land-speed record holder and vintage motorcycle racer said, “I’ve built a career pushing limits and defying expectations, and I want to inspire the next generation to do the same. Giving these young women the chance to get hands-on with the trades and motorcycle racing demonstrates that no industry is off-limits.”
The Tools for the Trades program launched in 2021 and addresses the nationwide shortage of skilled tradespeople. The program provides students and educators with access to professional-grade tools and equipment and unique learning opportunities, like track days at Sons of Speed.
“Tools for the Trades was launched to empower the next generation of tradespeople, and this event was a perfect example of that mission in action,” said Wade Kotula, CEO of Northern Tool + Equipment. “Seeing these young women gain hands-on experience and confidence in the trades proves that the future of these industries is bright. We’re proud to support opportunities that inspire and equip them to build lasting careers.”
Learn more about Northern Tool + Equipment at NorthernTool.com
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