The Lenawee Intermediate School District is thrilled to announce the receipt of a $37,000 grant from the Margaret Dunning Foundation, which will be used to purchase a state-of-the-art alignment machine for the LISD TECH Center Automotive Services Technology (AST) program. This vital piece of equipment is designed to meet the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) calibration requirements, ensuring students are trained on the latest industry-standard technology.
ADAS technology, now a standard feature in many new vehicles, includes advanced safety systems such as lane departure warnings, adaptive cruise control, and collision avoidance systems. According to industry data, nearly all new vehicles already come equipped with at least one ADAS feature, and by 2030, over 75% of all vehicles on the road are expected to be ADAS-equipped.
Understanding these systems is crucial for the next generation of automotive technicians. The LISD TECH Center is proud to be at the forefront of this educational initiative, preparing students with the skills needed for a rapidly advancing industry. The integration of ADAS calibration into the curriculum will ensure students are well-versed in the fastest-growing segment of automotive service and repair.
"We are so appreciative of this grant from the Margaret Dunning Foundation," said Ben Murray, LISD TECH Center Principal. "By upgrading our automotive lab with this new alignment system, we are equipping our students to meet the current needs of the automotive industry and also preparing our students for the future of vehicle technology."
The AST program has existed locally since the 1960s and continues to evolve to meet the talent pipeline needs of regional automotive employers. Over the past decade, the program has partnered with Ford Motor Company and General Motors to offer unique training options to students. AST also provides opportunities for students to earn valuable industry credentials while still in school. In 2023, students earned 47 State of Michigan mechanic certifications.
The Margaret Dunning Foundation was founded by Ms. Dunning in 1997. She was born in 1910 in Redford Township, Michigan, and moved with her mother to Plymouth, Michigan in the 1920s. During her lifetime, Ms. Dunning was a successful businesswoman, philanthropist, and civic booster. She was a major supporter of many Plymouth nonprofits, including the Plymouth District Library and the Plymouth Historical Society. In addition to her personal philanthropy, Ms. Dunning was a classic car enthusiast and was a regular participant in the Woodward Dream Cruise with her 1930 Packard 740 Roadster. Ms. Dunning died in 2015 at the age of 104. Her estate provided additional funding for the Margaret Dunning Foundation, which continues to support her charitable interests and legacy. For more information: www.margaretdunningfdn.org.