Laredo College strives for continuous innovation in students’ education, both in the classroom and in experiential learning laboratories. For Transportation Technology students, Raquel González made it a lifelong commitment to push forward opportunity and progress in the field. In tandem with two new additions to the program’s central facility, Laredo College hosted a rededication ceremony on Thursday, April 23 at its South Campus for the Raquel González Automotive Technology Center in honor of her legacy.
González’s memory lives on through this facility. A former Laredo College trustee, her longstanding impact on students and our community is still ever-present today through scholarship opportunities and enhanced educational resources. With a family history involving transportation, working at J.B. Gonzalez Garage at the age of 12, González helped build the foundation that would later lead to the Automotive Technology Center named in her honor.
According to LC Transportation Technology Chair Freddy Garcia, the new buildings will house the college’s Automotive Technology, Collision Repair Technology and Diesel Technology programs. These newly constructed buildings were built in conjunction with improvements made throughout the central facility that reflect LC’s renewed commitment to excellence in automotive education, highlighting ongoing investments in facilities, equipment and student opportunities.
These improvements include updated automotive lifts and equipment, modernized electrical/diagnostics labs, improved workstations, classroom technology enhancements, safety and workflow improvements. The LC Transportation Technology programs focus on diagnosing, repairing and maintaining modern vehicles using industry-standard tools and technology.
Students learn hands-on skills in engine performance, electrical systems, brakes, advanced diagnostics and more. Transportation Technology students already take advantage of a state-of-the-art facility, highly trained staff members and innovative opportunities, making the new improvements a further example of the college’s commitment to their education.