Racing cars is in Nick Bealer’s blood. Nick, a senior from Boyertown HS, was encouraged to start racing by his grandfather and father, both former race car drivers. He started as a Junior Dragster when he was eight years old and moved to Big Cars when he turned thirteen. Racing was something Nick knew he would be always be involved in.
He also knew he would be attending Berks Career and Technology Center, but unsure which program. Because he and his father work on the inside of cars as a hobby, Nick decided to try something different. He chose Automotive Collision Repair Technology to learn how to repair and refinish the outside of cars.
Nick recently brought in his pride and joy, a 1978 El Camino to BCTC’s Auto Collision Repair Technology’s program to get painted. Nick commented, “I like the older cars; they are easier to work on. My dad paid $450.00 at auction, but I paid him back and owned it since I was thirteen.” Nick races the El Camino up and down the East Coast, most recently winning the North East Divisional finals.
The students in the AM and PM classes were able to help Nick, repair dents, sand, prime, tape surfaces and paint the race car. “I was a little nervous with the extra help, but they all did a great job,” Nick noted. “Painting my own car has been by far my favorite project at BCTC.” Nick stated. He chose a striking garnet red for the El Camino’s new color. Nick continued, “The color looks dark red or black depending on the light.”
Nick shared some advice for students considering BCTC, “Keep an open mind about Auto Collision and any program at BCTC. I was thinking this could be a hobby, but it can take you anywhere.” Nick will be starting co-op at Douglassville Auto Body this week.