Fueling Futures: Southern Values Partners with Tidewater Tech to Empower Aspiring Mechanics

Here at Southern Values, our commitment to the communities we serve runs deep. It’s a core tenet of our program and we’re thrilled to announce an exciting new partnership that truly embodies this spirit: a collaboration with Tidewater Tech in Norfolk!

Recently, we had the pleasure of visiting Tidewater Tech’s campus to officially kick off this program, and the energy in the room was palpable. The event was made even more special by the presence of Norfolk’s Mayor Kenny Alexander, highlighting the significance of this initiative for the local community.

This partnership has been a passion project for Todd Kuther, the dedicated Service Director at Southern Chevrolet Chesapeake. Todd recognized the incredible potential within Tidewater Tech’s automotive program and was determined to find a meaningful way for Southern Auto Group to show our support for these aspiring students.

His vision, shared by Jeff Dohallow, our Platform Manager of Southern Auto Group’s Western Branch dealerships, led to a fruitful collaboration with the team at Tidewater Tech. Together, they’ve crafted a program designed to provide tangible benefits and real-world opportunities for the students.

So, what does this exciting partnership entail? We’re proud to announce several key initiatives:

• Hands-On Learning with Vehicle Donations: Southern Auto Group is pledging to donate vehicles to Tidewater Tech’s automotive program. This will provide students with invaluable hands-on experience, allowing them to learn and hone their skills on a diverse range of vehicles, just like the Hyundai proudly displayed in our recent visit photos. This direct access to real-world technology will undoubtedly bridge the gap between classroom theory and practical application.
• Investing in Excellence with Valedictorian Scholarships: Recognizing and rewarding hard work and dedication is crucial. To that end, Southern Auto Group will be donating a $2000 scholarship to the valedictorian of each Tidewater Tech graduation class. This is our way of celebrating their academic achievements and encouraging them as they embark on their professional journeys.
• Empowering Careers with a Graduate Toolbox Program: We understand that starting a career can come with its own set of financial hurdles. To help ease this transition for talented graduates who choose to join our team, Southern Auto Group has established a toolbox with tools program valued at $5000. This significant contribution will provide essential equipment for any Tidewater Tech graduate who wants to launch their career with us, setting them up for success from day one.

This partnership with Tidewater Tech is more than just a donation; it’s an investment in the future. We believe in nurturing the talent of these future auto mechanic men and women while they are still in training. By providing them with the resources they need, we’re not only supporting their education but also contributing to the growth and expertise of the automotive industry in our region.

We are incredibly enthusiastic about the potential of this collaboration and look forward to a long and successful partnership with Tidewater Tech. Together, we’re driving towards a brighter future for these dedicated students and for the Southern Auto Group family. Stay tuned for more updates on the progress of this exciting program!