Dealership partners with Ford Motor Company, SSHS on new training facility

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  • Representatives of Brian Toliver Ford Lincoln, Ford Motor Company and Sulphur Springs High School broke ground on a new technician training center located on the Sulphur Springs dealership grounds on Tuesday, Nov. 7. Brian Toliver Ford will partner with Sulphur Springs High School to provide hands-on training for automotive technology students. Courtesy Photo
    Representatives of Brian Toliver Ford Lincoln, Ford Motor Company and Sulphur Springs High School broke ground on a new technician training center located on the Sulphur Springs dealership grounds on Tuesday, Nov. 7. Brian Toliver Ford will partner with Sulphur Springs High School to provide hands-on training for automotive technology students. Courtesy Photo
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Brian Toliver Ford Lincoln is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Ford Motor Company, marking the initiation of a cutting-edge technician training center in Sulphur Springs, Texas. The groundbreaking ceremony, held Tuesday, Nov. 7, marked the beginning of an innovative collaboration between Brian Toliver Ford Lincoln, Ford Motor Company, and key partners.

The project is a culmination of months of meticulous design and planning, with the primary aim of offering local talent, especially high school graduates seeking trade experience, a launchpad into the automotive industry. This state-ofthe- art training center, situated on the current campus at 1040 Gilmer Street in Sulphur Springs, will seamlessly blend with existing structures and feature nine service bays, an alignment rack, an (EV) electrical lift, standard lifts, built-in toolboxes, everyday use tools, and a dedicated classroom. The facility is expected to be completed by the end of spring 2024.

Brian Toliver, president of Brian Toliver Ford Lincoln, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, 'This training center represents our commitment to investing in the future of our community. By providing a comprehensive learning environment, we hope to nurture the next generation of automotive technicians and expand our capacity to better serve our customers.'

Jonathan Cuff, Ford Dallas Region service performance manager, said, “The auto industry is in desperate need for auto technicians, so we are thrilled to see the team at Brian Toliver Ford launch this innovative effort to train and grow entry level techs, especially for our rural communities.”

The groundbreaking ceremony saw the participation of key stakeholders, including Brian, Brent and Jonathan Toliver; Jonathan Cuff and Vanessa Alvarado, representatives from Ford Motor Company; Michael Rhodes, the Automotive Technology Instructor at Sulphur Springs High School; and representatives from general contractor CDonlees Custom Builders and Underwood Site Excavation.

The facility's design aligns with the company's commitment to innovation, attracting young talents and offering them a hands-on experience in a state-of-the-art environment. The inclusion of a classroom ensures that theoretical knowledge complements practical skills, preparing individuals for a successful career in the automotive world.

Brian Toliver Ford Lincoln extends its gratitude to the local community for their ongoing support and enthusiasm for this venture.

The center aims to be a hub for automotive education and excellence, fostering growth and creating a lasting impact on the local workforce.