Scoggin-Dickey Chevrolet- Buick, a longtime supporter of South Plains College, gifted four General Motors 5.3L V8 engines to the institution’s Lubbock automotive program on Sept. 14 at the SPC Career and Technical Center.
John Zwiacher, dealer principal of Scoggin- Dickey and 35-year advisory board member for SPC’s automotive program, facilitated the donation. His fatherin- law, John Scoggin, helped establish the College’s automotive program in the 1970s.
“I’ve been on the committee for many years, and the students always need equipment to work on,” Zwiacher said. “We’re here to help them get an education in a trade that serves people.”
The engines will give SPC students the opportunity to work with modern equipment, preparing them for a career in the ever-changing automotive technology industry.
“These engines are currently being used within the General Motors car line, and this will allow our students to train on current technology,” Gary Ufford, professor of automotive technology and former Scoggin-Dickey technician, said. “We are very grateful to Scoggin- Dickey, which has shown support to SPC for decades.” The SPC Automotive Service Technology program is NATEF/ASE certified, which means training meets nationally recognized standards in all eight automotive specialties—from brakes and suspension to electrical systems and engine performance.
Students prepare for real ASE certification exams each semester, giving them a head start in earning credentials that employers trust and value across the automotive industry.
The program offers extensive hands-on training in modern shop settings using the same tools, technology, and diagnostic equipment found in today’s dealerships and repair facilities.
To support SPC students, contact the College’s Development Office at 806-716-2020 or sgoldie@southplainscollege. edu.