Engines, Welding, and Opportunity: Inside a Student‑Run Car Show
On May 2, students in the George Washington High School Auto Shop Program in San Francisco will host their fifth annual Car Show, a student- run event designed to raise critical funding and highlight the value of hands-on education in the automotive trades.
“This project was originally slated to take place on April 11, but heavy rain was forecast for that date. We had expected between 150 and 200 classic cars, trucks, and motorcycles, and hope that they’ll all be able to make the new date,” said Rich del Rosso, instructor and program coordinator. The car show is more than a showcase of vehicles— it is an immersive learning experience for students. According to del Rosso, students play a central role in shaping the event, from judging to creating the awards. “The students come up with the categories—with my approval—and they are also the judges,” he explained.
From high school to career: GW auto shop grows mechanics
Piotr Sikorski’s story highlights how foundational programs can transform lives and lead to rewarding careers. His journey from high school to a career in mechanics is a testament to the Auto Shop program at George Washington High School. “It played a direct role in shaping my career,” Piotr recalls.
After finishing high school in 2016, Piotr continued his auto education at Skyline College for three semesters before being offered an IAM apprenticeship. Accepting was a decision he calls “the best of my life.” He enrolled at Laney in March 2018 and earned his journeyman status by January 2025.
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