Southwestern Community College (SWCC) is proud to announce the inaugural recipients of the Automotive Career Starter Tool Set Award, generously established by alumnus Nile Cornelison. Second-year automotive repair technology student Jacob Kinyon and auto collision repair/refinish student Jamie Young have been awarded this prestigious gift, which includes professional-grade mechanic tool sets and tool chests, each valued at nearly $4,000. This “Creston Car Tool Set” award marks a significant investment in the future of automotive technicians and underscores the vital role of industry support in education.
Inaugural Creston Car Tool Set Award Winners Announced
Kinyon and Young were selected as the first beneficiaries of the “creston car tool set” award due to their outstanding performance in both classroom studies and hands-on lab work. Kinyon’s dedication was previously recognized when he was named outstanding student of the year in automotive repair technology for 2017-18. Young has also demonstrated exceptional skill, earning silver medals twice at the Iowa SkillsUSA competition in automotive refinishing technology. Their achievements highlight the caliber of students fostered by SWCC’s automotive programs and the impact of awards like the “creston car tool set” in nurturing talent.
Life-Changing Tool Sets for Aspiring Technicians
The impact of receiving a “creston car tool set” extends beyond the monetary value for these students. Jamie Young shared the deeply personal significance of the award: “When I found out I was going to be awarded this tool set, it made my day. Just a year ago I lost my mom and I’ve had a very hard time since then. This showed me someone still believes in me and proves what we can accomplish with just a little bit of help.” His words resonate with the profound encouragement and practical assistance that the “creston car tool set” provides.
Jacob Kinyon echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the lasting value of the tools: “This tool set will be a great asset for me as I start my career. It made my day when I saw it because I know this is a good quality set that will last for a long time.” Both students expressed immense gratitude for the quality and comprehensiveness of the “creston car tool set”, recognizing it as an essential foundation for their future careers as automotive professionals.
Nile Cornelison: A Legacy of Automotive Passion and Support
The “creston car tool set” award is the brainchild of Nile Cornelison, a former Creston Junior College (now SWCC) student from 1960-62. Cornelison’s successful career in the automotive industry, including owning a business that supplied automotive parts across the Midwest, speaks volumes about his expertise and passion. His induction into the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Hall of Fame in 2014 further solidifies his standing as a respected figure in the automotive world. Cornelison’s contributions, particularly his efforts to integrate vehicle manufacturers and technical training programs into industry events, have left a lasting mark. This “creston car tool set” award is another testament to his commitment to giving back to the automotive community and supporting the next generation.
SWCC’s Automotive Programs Benefit from Industry Partnerships
Jeff Magneson, SWCC auto collision repair/refinish instructor, expressed sincere appreciation for Cornelison’s ongoing support: “Nile has provided tremendous support for the automotive programs at Southwestern through his financial contributions, as well as through the learning opportunities he has provided for our students. We appreciate his involvement and interest in our programs.” Cornelison’s engagement extends beyond financial gifts; he has also facilitated enriching learning experiences for SWCC students and instructors through visits to the Speedway Motor’s Museum of American Speed, bridging the gap between automotive history, racing technology, and modern vehicle engineering. The “creston car tool set” award and Cornelison’s broader involvement exemplify the powerful synergy between industry expertise and automotive education, directly benefiting students at SWCC and preparing them for successful careers.
