New truck simulator takes front seat at Barren County High School
BARREN COUNTY, Ky. – The students at Barren County High School are getting hands-on learning when it comes to trucks.
They have a new simulator that is giving them real-world experiences that will benefit them beyond the classroom.
Shaun Gray, a teacher at Barren County High School, says, “With a real-world experience, yes, I’m gonna edge over a lot of other students. I have only understood theory with a real-world experience. Yes, I’m gonna edge over a lot of other students. I have only understood the theory. If you understand theory, you understand the concept. But with the actual experience of doing the hands-on, they have that experience and that knowledge that is only achieved through time.”
And for one student, the value of training combined with curiosity can create a path toward success
Jaida Gunn, an 11th-grade student, says, “I didn’t know anything about diesel, except for, you know, an oil change. And then I started getting more into it, sort of realizing, ‘oh, this is what I actually want to do.’ And I see. Right. He helped me out a lot with all of that. Taught me more stuff. I can work on an engine now, change brakes and change tires. I’ve already got a bunch of certifications from his help already, and I’m hoping to get my Class B CDL from him too.”
The students who go through the Barren County Area Technology Center see the benefits and how it can benefit them in the long run.
Ryan England, an 11th-grade student, tells us, “It’s a different experience. Kind of wild. Just how advanced it is. It gives them a better idea of what they want to do instead of spending money on college, and they don’t know what, oh, they don’t like it. So it’s just a big money pit. ”
This is just the beginning for the students at Barron County High School. Sean will implement an introduction course next semester for sophomores, juniors and seniors.
