WHEELS IN MOTION

PETE CHAPOURIS . September 26, 2022 . All Feature Vehicles

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AXC Engine Start Event 2013

The Alex Xydias Center for Automotive Arts (AXC) is in its third year of operation and has surpassed all expectations. AXC is part of classes offered by The Learning Centers at Fairplex in Pomona, California, and boasts a beautifully maintained shop, a full-time teacher and four levels of automotive curriculum. What started as a dream of bringing more highly trained individuals into the automotive aftermarket is now a reality. AXC has graduated 40 students thus far and is proud to say that every one of them was hired into the aftermarket before graduating. This is a huge step up for the car hobby, and what was once a dubious subject is now met with enthusiasm and anticipation!

This is Phil Jesse (L), SO-CAL Speed Shop new hire and AXC instructor Brian Suggs enjoying the moment.

On Dec. 18, Class 103-2013 hosted the second annual AXC Engine Start event. The entire class shares the semester-long engine build experience and they aren’t allowed to “test” their handiwork beforehand. While class 103 was double-checking for compression, spark and fuel, onlookers patiently waited with fingers crossed. Class 103, not to disappoint, lit the supercharged small-block Chevy to the delight of all in attendance, a sweet moment indeed! Kudos to all involved, it was really a fun time. The occasion has grown into an annual “competitive” event that I hope will continue for many years to come. It’s fun stuff to watch!

The Alex Xydias Center for Automotive Arts is in its formative years and certainly needs all the help we can muster. For more information regarding classes and how you can become a sustaining donor member, go to the AXC website Fairplex.com/ctec/.