September 2, 2025

Ralston High School Automotive Club Car Show Canceled Due to Rain

News Summary

The inaugural car show of the Ralston High School automotive club, part of Ralston Days, was canceled due to rain. Despite the setback, club activities continue with over 20 members. Funds from the show were expected to support projects and trips. The growing interest in trades among students, including automotive careers, remains strong. Future plans include launching a welding program and organizing a follow-up car show, demonstrating the club’s commitment to fostering careers in technical fields.

Ralston, Nebraska – The Ralston High School automotive club’s inaugural car show, part of the Ralston Days celebration, was canceled due to rain on Monday. The cancellation, while disappointing, did not significantly impact the club’s activities, although funds raised would have assisted with ongoing club projects and expenses.

The car show was intended to help finance various club initiatives, including trips, equipment, and projects. Automotive instructor Javan Lucero indicated that while the event’s cancellation was not a massive setback, the financial support from the car show was eagerly anticipated for supporting the club’s ambitions.

The automotive club has seen an impressive surge in student interest, starting the new school year with over 20 members, a significant increase from its initial three members at inception. This growth aligns with Ralston High School’s broader trend of emphasizing trades and Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs designed to motivate students to explore careers in technical fields.

Growing Interest in Trades

Students in the automotive program are being equipped with skills that can lead to various career paths, such as electrical work, plumbing, and other automotive-related fields. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is a promising long-term growth forecast for careers within these trades, including HVAC technicians, electricians, plumbers, and automotive technicians.

Recent graduate Luis Tirado, a co-founder of the automotive club, mentioned a persistent demand for technicians in the automotive industry and emphasized the need for students to show more interest in automotive and autobody work. Tirado has completed his training in the autobody program and now works at a local auto body shop, representing the potential pathways available to students engaging in these programs.

Future Aspirations

Looking ahead, there are aspirations to launch a welding program and expand the autobody curriculum at Ralston High School. Continued guidance under instructor Javan Lucero is anticipated as integral to facilitating the growth and development of the automotive program. With plans in motion for a follow-up car show at the end of April and alternative fundraising strategies being explored, the automotive club hopes to sustain its momentum and support its growing membership.

The cancellation of the car show may have momentarily deterred fundraising efforts, but the club’s proactive approach to future events signifies a positive outlook for the continuing growth of the automotive program. As interest in trades rises and more students engage with hands-on learning opportunities, the automotive club aims to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of students pursuing careers in technical fields.