Brookdale and Somerset Tire Service sign alliance

Brookdale Community College’s Automotive Technology department has developed an educational alliance with the retail automotive service company Somerset Tire Service Inc. (STS) that will enhance work opportunities for students and graduates of the automotive technology program, according to the college.

The alliance was officially signed by representatives from both organizations at a small ceremony held Oct. 10 in Middletown on the Lincroft campus.

The new Brookdale/STS two-year program will award a certificate upon completion that prepares the graduate to work in any area of the STS retail operation. While completing their studies, the students may also obtain paid internships at over 60 regional STS locations.

"Approximately 20 percent of Brookdale students are enrolled in career programs, and attend Brookdale to gain the skills that lead to good jobs upon graduation," said Brookdale President Dr. Peter Burnham. "This alliance with STS illustrates Brookdale’s commitment to providing our career-track students with both educational access and work opportunities. We strive to act as a conduit for our students to the best jobs in their industry of interest, and this agreement with STS allows our students access to one of the largest automotive service retailers in the New Jersey area," Burnham said.

"Our business is people based," commented STS President Bill Caulin. "We have a strong, employee owner-based organization at STS, and we are committed to developing the working skills of our employees. The success of STS is contingent on their talents. Because we do have such a strong demand for skills enhancement at STS, this new agreement with Brookdale will work very productively for us," said Caulin.

Community residents and students interested in additional information about this program should phone the Brookdale Information Center at (732) 224-2345.