Stellantis Donates $10,000 to Enhance RVC Automotive Program

Rock Valley College (RVC) has announced the launch of a new toolkit loan program for its Automotive Technology Program, thanks to a generous donation of $10,000 from automotive manufacturer Stellantis. This initiative aims to ease the financial burden on students who are required to utilize professional-grade toolkits during their training.

The cost of these toolkits can range from a few hundred to over $2,150, creating a significant financial challenge for students who are already managing tuition and living expenses. The loan program will enable students to borrow specialized toolkits, ensuring they have access to the necessary tools from the very beginning of their studies.

Mike Bennett, director of state and local government affairs for Stellantis, emphasized the importance of this contribution, stating, “Through this donation, we’re investing in the region’s future workforce as we look ahead toward relaunching the Belvidere Assembly Complex in 2027.”

The program is designed to support student persistence and success, preparing graduates for careers in the automotive industry. John Skupien, an automotive instructor at RVC, highlighted the financial strain that the cost of toolkits places on students, adding that such resources are critical for their educational journey.

Dr. Howard Spearman, president of Rock Valley College, expressed gratitude for the partnership with Stellantis, noting that it reflects a commitment to strengthening the automotive workforce in the region. He stated, “This project represents more than a financial gift; it reflects a shared commitment to strengthening our region’s automotive workforce.”

The collaboration aligns with RVC’s strategic priorities of enhancing access to education and providing exceptional training programs. With the support of community partners like Stellantis, the college aims to remove financial barriers for students, allowing them to receive hands-on training that meets industry standards.

Brittany Freiberg, executive director of the Rock Valley College Foundation, also commented on the impact of Stellantis’ investment. “The Rock Valley College Foundation is grateful for Stellantis’ investment in our students and in our region’s automotive talent pipeline,” Freiberg remarked. “We firmly believe true opportunity begins when barriers are removed, and this generous gift helps level the educational playing field for our automotive students.”

In a related development, the Automotive Service Technology program is scheduled to relocate from its current site on Samuelson Road to RVC’s new Downtown West Campus in fall 2026. This move is part of the college’s ongoing efforts to enhance its educational offerings and better serve students in the automotive field.

This initiative not only benefits current students but also contributes to the broader goal of developing a skilled workforce ready to meet the demands of the automotive industry in the region.