By Scott Prater | mountaineer staff
FORT CARSON, Colo. — Colorado’s mountainous climate surprised more than one soldier.
That first morning after the thermometer plunges into adolescence often provides a shock to some, who turn a key expecting to hear the familiar sound of a running engine, only to encounter silence…or a rather weak click.
Worse still, some discover their car is in dire need of new tires as they slide through icy intersections, while others are forced to drive with reduced vision when they discover their windshield washer fluid is at. dry.
“We’ve seen great turnout,” said Christopher Devlin, chief automotive technology officer at ASC. “We offer the courses once a month and have alternated between winter vehicle preparation and general maintenance courses.” Technicians at Fort Carson’s Automotive Skills Center (ASC) have found a solution to those pesky car problems and all soldiers have to do is sign up for a course through the Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers program to learn more. know more.
The BOSS program teamed up with CSA staff to deliver the automotive courses a few months ago and are more than pleased with the results so far.
“We hired trainings and asked them what they would like to see offered in terms of life skills courses, and that was the most requested topic,” the staff sergeant said. Antony Zuniga, President of BOSS. “Many soldiers don’t know what they’re doing with their vehicles, and Colorado can present unique challenges for new soldiers or those unfamiliar with driving in these types of elements. So it has been a successful business which we plan to continue to offer.
During the winter preparation course, Devlin teaches students a number of important skills – how to check tire pressure and tread depth, how to test a battery, how to check and fill engine oil, a car’s antifreeze and windshield washer fluid, as well as how to check a vehicle’s hoses, belts, transmission fluid and brakes.
“I didn’t even know there was an automotive skills center here,” said Sgt. Glenn De Dios, who attended the course on January 27. “I think it would be a good idea (for the army chiefs) to include information about the auto shop during ongoing briefings.”
“We’ve had several soldiers take these BOSS courses and turn around to earn their store card the same day,” Devlin said. “The BOSS courses are a great way to introduce people to what they can do here in the store in a less intimidating way.” The ASC is managed by the Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation. It provides a place for soldiers, family members, DOD civilians and retirees to perform maintenance on their vehicles in a modern facility. ASC also provides a team of certified mechanics who instruct and assist users in repairing and maintaining their vehicles.
Those interested in using the facility need only visit the center, complete a short security course, and pass a security test to obtain their store card.
“I think this type of training is incredibly helpful for soldiers,” said Sgt. Kelsey Simmons. “I don’t know anything about cars, so even a bit of practice is valuable. Our instructor answered many of our questions, and the class gives you a chance to gain hands-on experience. It’s a great life skill to have.
For more information on automotive skills courses, contact the BOSS program at https://carson.armymwr.com/BOSS. For more Fort Carson Auto Skills Center information, hours, rules, and operations, visit https://carson.armymwr.com/programs/fort-carson-automotive-skills-center.
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