Pender High School Students Explore Automotive Careers at Fairway Ford Inc.

For over 50 years, Fairway Ford Inc. in Burgaw has been a part of the town’s landscape. The family-owned and operated dealership is also one of the local businesses helping introduce Pender County high school students to careers in the automotive field through Cape Fear Community College’s Career and College Promise (CCP) program. The CCP Automotive Mechanics pathway gives juniors and seniors a head start in a hands-on, high-demand field at no cost.

A Family-Owned Dealership with Deep Roots

As part of that experience, students from Pender High School recently visited Fairway Ford for a walkthrough of the shop. They spent the morning seeing day-to-day operations up close. During the visit, owner Hugh Highsmith II said giving young people access to real-world training is more important than ever.

“There’s a tremendous need for technicians,” he said. “A lot of students don’t realize the potential for security and income in this field. There’s opportunity, job stability, and a good living to be made.”

Highsmith has spent his life in the industry. After seven years with Ford Motor Company, he returned to Burgaw in 1973. Fairway Ford has now spanned three generations, with long-serving employees who have built their careers in the shop.

“What’s been most rewarding for me is improving the lives of my employees,” he said. “You bring someone in, train them, watch their skills grow, and help them reach a standard of living they didn’t think was possible.”

Why Early Training Matters

At Pender High School, that message resonates with Career Development Coordinator Bevin Stokes. She works closely with CFCC to help students find dual-enrollment classes, internships, and pre-apprenticeships.

“There are so many opportunities in the trades right now,” Stokes said. “Our workforce is aging out, and we need to fill that gap. Students can spend less time in school and start earning a livable wage sooner. It’s a great option for kids who want to step into a career quickly.”

She said the best part is watching students find their fit.

“It’s that ‘aha’ moment,” she said. “When they realize they really like what they’re doing and can see a future in it.”

The automotive classes are taught by CFCC instructor Eric Fields, who spent most of his career as a technician in dealerships across the state.

“A lot of students don’t know this is even an option for them,” Fields said. “This career opens a lot of doors, and the skills transfer into so many other areas. They just need exposure to it.”

Learning by doing

Fields’ classroom, more akin to a shop than a lecture hall, provides students with a close look at the work. Pender High School senior Gianina Orwat enjoys that the class allows her to learn through hands-on experiences.

“I’ve always kind of MacGyvered things,” she said. “I wanted some background knowledge since I’m planning to go into the military, and I think I’d like to work on tanks someday. And honestly, every woman should know how to service her own car.”

The hands-on work has been the highlight for her.

“I learn by doing,” she said. “Changing oil wasn’t too hard. Once you see the process, it makes sense. I like being able to actually get in there and work. I learn something new every day.”