September 7 - September 20, 2021
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Pirate Garage Show is back to rev up the SYHS auto department New auto shop teacher hopes to educate students on new technologies By Raiza Giorgi
publisher@santaynezvalleystar.com
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uto isn’t just a hobby class anymore, and new Santa Ynez Valley Union High School auto shop teacher Gary Semerdjian said he is serious about helping his students learn new technologies. “There has been a cultural shift in the transportation industry, there are so many avenues they can take to earn great money and a lifelong career,” he said. He was also excited to bring back the Pirate Garage Show after being suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Locals are welcome to sign up to bring in their unique or classic cars up until the day of the event, according to Semerdjian. The show will take place from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Sept. 12 in the parking lot of Santa Ynez Valley Union High School. Show organizers will honor the entry fees of the participants from last year’s canceled show if they provide supporting documentation. Semerdjian recently took over the auto shop department from Rob Hill, who retired at the end of 2020 after more than 20 years of teaching. “Rob Hill did a great job and I hope I can not
Photos by Barry Sigman New Santa Ynez High auto shop teacher Gary Semerdjian goes over car parts with student Keddy Thompson.
New auto shop teacher Gary Semerdjian, seen here in the SYHS classroom with his students, takes over for the retiring Rob Hill.
only continue where he left off, but enhance the program and get as many students involved and as passionate about cars as I am,” he said. Semerdjian said starting during the pandemic with distance learning and hybrid classes was difficult, but the students stayed engaged and he is determined to ensure they get a great experience and hopefully guide some of his students into the transportation industry. “Aircraft mechanics (known as A&P) can make a high-paying salary at any major hub airport,” Semerdjian said. Students who also know electronics can go into aircraft navigation and communications, which is becoming more in high demand, according to avjobs.com. “Because of a shortage of technicians and the complexity of aircraft systems, the industry needs more people who are cross-trained,” the website states. “There’s also a huge need for repairing heavy equipment like cranes and tractors, and these careers are not going away,” Semerdjian said. Semerdjian is working with Allan Hancock College to make his Auto 100 class concurrent with AHC’s curriculum so students can easily transition into the program and graduate with more than just entry-level skills. “We also have a great partnership with a few tool manufacturers to get kids a 50 percent discount, which is huge,” Semerdjian said. “Most shops have to pay double minimum wage if PIRATE GARAGE CONTINUED TO PAGE 23
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