Tinkering on his Monte Carlo has become a labor of love for Peter Heil, 2001 alumnus of Diamond Oaks Automotive Technology program and graduate of Oak Hills.  This restoration project he started years ago is still underway—and the challenge and fun it brings him shows through.  When he enrolled at Diamond Oaks, Peter was looking for a new challenge and a change from his typical high school classes.  “Every day when I was in my career lab, I learned so much.  I didn’t feel cooped up, and what I was learning was just like what I would be doing out in the real world,” shared Peter.

Since graduation, Peter has obtained his ASE certification in painting and finishing as well as structural and non-structural repair.  He co-oped at Gary Rain’s Body Shop, Inc. while attending Diamond Oaks and has worked there ever since.  Peter uses different equipment and technology every day--repairing damaged panels, using computerized framing systems, and working on re-assembly projects.

“There is a lot of merit in hiring Diamond Oaks students,” shared Gary Rains, owner of Center City Collision, LLC in Norwood and the body shop where Peter works on Glenway Avenue.They provide students with experiences they can take with them for their life and their careers,” continued Rains.

“At Diamond Oaks I learned what was going to help me down the road and how the industry is changing so quickly,” added Peter.  He credits his auto instructor Dave Carter and his English instructor John McAlpin with “keeping him focused.” Peter’s future career goal is to become an ASE Chief Master Level Technician.