APPOMATTOX, VA – A cohort of dedicated seniors from Appomattox County High School’s Raider Garage program are now officially certified to keep Virginia’s roads safer, having successfully earned their Virginia State Inspection Licenses, the school proudly announced this week.

This significant achievement is the culmination of three years of vocational training. Students immersed themselves in a comprehensive curriculum that blended theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on experience in the auto shop. Their journey to certification involved mastering General Knowledge sections, as well as intricate details of Brakes, Suspension Systems, Lights, and Glass components – all critical for ensuring vehicle safety.

To earn their licenses, these aspiring mechanics had to demonstrate their proficiency through both written examinations and practical assessments in the shop, proving they can apply their learned skills in real-world scenarios.

Instructor Jonathan Garrett praised the students’ commitment, stating, “Each of these students have gone above and beyond to reach this milestone, and we couldn’t be more proud of their dedication and growth.”

The Raider Garage program isn’t finished celebrating just yet. Garret is optimistic that “in the coming weeks we hope to have a few more students complete this process,” further adding to the pool of qualified young technicians emerging from Appomattox County High School. This certification not only marks a personal triumph for the students but also equips them with a valuable credential for their future careers in the automotive industry.

In aligning with the national movement to bolster credentialing and workplace programs, the school is effectively launching skilled technicians directly into the workforce, demonstrating a powerful and practical alternative to traditional higher education pathways.