Ronan, MT — A new partnership between the Ronan School District 30 Charter
Academy, the Boys & Girls Club of the Flathead Reservation and Lake County, and
Don Aadsen Ford is creating hands-on automotive education opportunities for high
school students in the Mission Valley.
Beginning this school year, students will participate in automotive classes held in the
Club’s fully equipped shop facility. The program offers instruction in basic and more
advanced automotive mechanics, autobody repair, and real-world shop
operations—providing students with practical, career-ready skills in a professional
working environment.
Through participation in the Ford ACE Program (Automotive Career Exploration),
students will also gain access to introductory technician coursework aligned with
industry standards. The Ford ACE curriculum helps prepare students for further
technical education and potential careers in the automotive service industry.
This collaborative effort bridges education and workforce development by connecting
classroom instruction with hands-on industry experience. Students will learn
foundational skills such as:
Automotive maintenance and repair
Advanced mechanical systems
Autobody techniques
Shop safety and tool use
Professional workplace expectations
By training in an active shop environment, students gain exposure to the pace,
standards, and teamwork required in today’s automotive industry.
“This program is the start of something we have dreamed of for years,” said Gordon
Henricksen, owner of Don Aadsen Ford. “It gives local young people a good career with
opportunity to stay here in Montana.”
“The Club and Don Aadsen have been so generous and visionary partners to help us
give kids opportunities they haven’t had here in decades,” said Josh Illig, Director of the
Ronan School District 30 Charter Academy. “This is a game changer for our students.”
Community leaders see the initiative as a model for collaboration between schools,
nonprofit organizations, and local businesses—ensuring students graduate with both
academic knowledge and practical, in-demand skills.
For more information about the automotive training program or enrollment opportunities,
please contact:
Aric Cooksley
CEO – Boys & Girls Club of the Flathead Reservation and Lake County
406-493-2312
aric@flatheadbgc.org