Back to School: Some of Our Favorite Switch Labs Sessions

Rancho Cotati Group Switch Car Assembly

 

As students across the United States head back to school, it’s an exciting time for both educators and learners. One aspect that has gained immense popularity and traction in recent years is Project Based  Learning (PBL) through innovative programs like The Switch Lab™.

The Switch Lab™ has found its way into over 250 schools in North America, empowering students to explore the world of electric vehicles and renewable energy in an engaging and educational manner. Since school is one of our favorite places to learn about STEM programs (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), we will closely examine some of our favorite Switch Labs sessions and how they transform the classroom experience.

Train-the-Trainers, an introduction to Switch Vehicles Electric Vehicle Assembly Kits

The Switch Lab™ offers a unique opportunity for students to build an electric vehicle from scratch. The Switch Lab™ comes with all the necessary components and instructions, allowing students to experience the excitement of engineering and design firsthand. With a focus on sustainability and clean energy, Switch Labs aims to inspire the next generation of innovators and problem solvers.

The Benefits of Project-Based Learning

Project-based learning has proven to be an effective way to enhance student engagement and understanding. The Switch Labs sessions provide students with a practical application of theoretical concepts, making learning more meaningful and memorable. Students develop a deep understanding of the technology involved by assembling an electric vehicle.

Fostering Creativity and Critical Thinking

The Switch Lab™encourages students to think critically and creatively. Throughout the assembly process, students face various challenges and problem-solving opportunities. They learn to troubleshoot, iterate, and adapt their designs, fostering a sense of resilience and innovation. This project-based learning approach nurtures essential skills that extend beyond the realm of electric vehicles, preparing students for future endeavors.

Embracing Sustainable Transportation

Understanding electric vehicles and renewable energy is becoming increasingly important as the world moves towards a more sustainable future. The Switch Labs sessions allow students to explore the benefits of electric transportation firsthand. By participating in the assembly and operation of electric vehicles, students gain a deeper appreciation for sustainable transportation solutions and their positive impact on the environment.

Collaborative Learning and Teamwork

The Switch Labs sessions promote collaborative learning and teamwork. Students work together in groups, sharing ideas and dividing tasks to complete the assembly process. Collaboration fosters communication skills, cooperation, and the ability to work effectively in a team—a vital skill set required in many professional environments.

Real-World Application

One of the most significant advantages of the Switch Labs sessions is their real-world application. As students construct and drive their electric vehicles, they gain firsthand experience of the principles they learn in the classroom. This practical experience bridges theoretical knowledge and real-life scenarios, reinforcing concepts and sparking curiosity.

Training Sessions Are Fun For Everyone Who Makes The Switch

The Switch Labs™ transforms how students learn about sustainable transportation and renewable energy. These sessions engage and inspire young minds by offering hands-on experiences and practical applications, nurturing critical thinking, teamwork, and creativity. As these EV kits continue to be implemented in schools across North America, we can look forward to a generation of students equipped with the knowledge and passion to shape a greener and more sustainable future.

Whether assembling an electric vehicle, understanding the inner workings of renewable energy, or witnessing the impact of sustainable transportation, Switch Labs’ sessions leave a lasting impression on students, opening doors to a world of possibilities. As we embrace the new school year, let’s celebrate these innovative learning experiences and the educators and organizations that make them possible.

Make The Switch For Your CTE & STEM Programs

Switch Vehicles is one of the companies leading the way in EV education and training with their comprehensive curriculum and assembly kits for building electric vehicles. By offering project-based training opportunities for students from high school to university levels, Switch Vehicles is helping to prepare the next generation of automotive technicians and engineers for the future of the electric vehicle industry.

If you are an automotive trainer or educator looking to incorporate electric vehicle training into your curriculum, consider contacting Switch Vehicles. The Switch Lab™ provides a unique opportunity for students to learn about electric vehicle technology while gaining valuable hands-on experience building and maintaining their electric vehicles. 

By investing in the education and training of future EV professionals, we can continue to drive the growth and innovation of the electric vehicle industry in the United States and worldwide. The Switch Lab™ is an engaging hands-on project that your students will love. It makes learning complex topics fun and exciting. This new EV technology isn’t ahead of its time. It’s right on time.

Our reusable EV Kit is ideal for students interested in renewable energy, advanced technology, or automobile design. The Switch Lab™ teaches students how to work with their hands, solve problems, collaborate as a team, learn about systems, and gain experience in cutting-edge automotive technology. Contact us today to learn more about how Switch Vehicles can benefit your school. Let’s grow the EV tech future together!

What the Japanese Economic Miracle Can Teach Us About EV’s Future

Photo of Tokyo by Jezael Melgoza on Unsplash

What The Japanese Economic Miracle Can Teach Us About EV’s Future

 

The Japanese Economic Miracle refers to the rapid post-World War II recovery and subsequent economic growth experienced by Japan. The country emerged from the devastation of war to become one of the world’s leading economic powers. Examining the factors contributing to Japan’s economic success can provide valuable insights into the potential role of electric vehicles (EVs) in driving future economic recovery and transformation. 

In this blog post, we will explore the Japanese Economic Miracle, the factors behind its success, and how EVs can play a pivotal role in another economic recovery.

 

What Is The Japanese Economic Miracle?

The Japanese Economic Miracle refers to the period of extraordinary economic growth in Japan from the 1950s to the early 1990s. During this time, Japan transformed itself into a global economic powerhouse, becoming a leading exporter of automobiles, electronics, and other high-quality manufactured goods. High GDP growth rates, technological advancements, and improvements in living standards characterized the Japanese Economic Miracle.

How Did Japan Achieve Such Rapid Post-War Recovery?

Several key factors contributed to Japan’s rapid post-war recovery and subsequent economic success. These factors include:

Industrial Policy

Japan implemented a targeted industrial policy that focused on supporting specific industries through government subsidies, infrastructure development, and favorable regulations. This policy helped foster the growth of industries such as automotive manufacturing and electronics.

Investment in Human Capital

Japan prioritized investment in education and skills development, creating a highly skilled workforce that contributed to technological innovation and productivity growth.

Export-Oriented Approach

Japan adopted an export-oriented strategy, leveraging its competitive advantage in manufacturing and exporting goods to international markets. This approach fueled economic growth and facilitated the accumulation of foreign reserves.

Strong Collaboration Between Government and Industry

The Japanese government worked closely with the private sector, providing support and guidance to industries, promoting research and development, and fostering innovation. This collaboration facilitated the rapid growth of Japanese industries.

 

How Can Electric Vehicles Play A Role In Another Economic Recovery?

Electric vehicles have the potential to play a significant role in driving another economic recovery for several reasons:

Technological Advancements

EVs represent a disruptive technology that is poised to revolutionize the automotive industry. As countries invest in EV research and development, technological advancements will drive innovation, job creation, and economic growth.

Sustainable Infrastructure Development

The transition to electric vehicles requires the development of charging infrastructure, including public charging stations, residential charging points, and battery-swapping networks. This infrastructure development can stimulate economic activity, create jobs, and boost local economies.

Energy Independence and Security

By embracing electric vehicles, countries can reduce their dependence on imported oil and fossil fuels, enhancing energy security and promoting self-sufficiency. This shift can have positive economic implications by reducing oil import expenditures and redirecting funds toward domestic energy sources.

Environmental Benefits

Electric vehicles offer significant environmental benefits, such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions and improved air quality. As governments prioritize environmental sustainability, promoting the adoption of EVs can lead to long-term economic gains through cost savings in healthcare, reduced environmental damage, and enhanced quality of life.

 

How Could Electric Vehicles Transform Economies Worldwide?

The widespread adoption of electric vehicles has the potential to transform economies worldwide in various ways:

Job Creation

The EV industry requires a skilled workforce for manufacturing, research and development, and maintenance of charging infrastructure. The growth of the EV sector can create new employment opportunities and stimulate economic activity in related industries.

Economic Resilience

Embracing electric vehicles can reduce reliance on volatile global oil markets, providing economic stability and resilience to fluctuations in oil prices. By promoting EVs, countries can enhance their energy independence and reduce the economic impact of oil price shocks.

Technological Leadership

Investing in the development and production of EVs can position countries as leaders in clean technology and advanced manufacturing. This leadership can attract investments, foster innovation, and drive economic growth in related industries.

Export Opportunities

As the demand for EVs grows globally, countries that establish themselves as leaders in EV manufacturing can seize export opportunities. By exporting electric vehicles and related technologies, countries can generate revenue, improve their trade balance, and enhance their global competitiveness.

 

What Could Our Children’s Future Look Like?

The Japanese Economic Miracle provides valuable lessons for understanding the potential impact of electric vehicles on future economic recovery and transformation. The success of Japan’s post-war recovery was attributed to factors such as targeted industrial policies, investment in human capital, an export-oriented approach, and strong collaboration between government and industry. 

Similarly, electric vehicles have the potential to drive economic growth, create jobs, promote sustainable infrastructure development, and enhance energy independence worldwide. By prioritizing the development and adoption of EVs, countries can position themselves at the forefront of the clean technology revolution and pave the way for another economic miracle.

 

Make The Switch For Your CTE & STEM Programs

Switch Vehicles is one of the companies leading the way in EV education and training with their comprehensive curriculum and assembly kits for building electric vehicles. By offering hands-on training opportunities for students from high school to university levels, Switch Vehicles is helping to prepare the next generation of automotive technicians and engineers for the future of the electric vehicle industry.

If you are an automotive trainer or educator looking to incorporate electric vehicle training into your curriculum, consider contacting Switch Vehicles. The comprehensive program and assembly kits provide a unique opportunity for students to learn about electric vehicle technology while gaining valuable hands-on experience building and maintaining their electric vehicles. 

By investing in the education and training of future EV professionals, we can continue to drive the growth and innovation of the electric vehicle industry in the United States and worldwide. The Switch Lab™ is an engaging hands-on project that your students will love. It makes learning complex topics fun and exciting. This new EV technology isn’t ahead of its time. It’s right on time.

Our reusable EV Kit is ideal for students interested in renewable energy, advanced technology, or automobile design. The Switch Lab teaches students how to work with their hands, solve problems, collaborate as a team, learn about systems, and gain experience in cutting-edge automotive technology. Contact us today to learn more about how Switch Vehicles can benefit your school. Let’s grow the EV tech future together!

7 Reasons You Should Already Be in an Electric Vehicle

7 Reasons You Should Already Be in an Electric Vehicle

 

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular as people around the world find ways to reduce their carbon footprint and become more environmentally conscious. In addition to helping the planet, there are several other reasons why you should consider driving an electric vehicle. Here are seven reasons why you should already be in an electric vehicle:

#1 Funding Opportunities

One big reason you should consider driving an electric vehicle is the available funding opportunities. The federal stimulus funds have created an opportunity to invest significantly in high-quality CTE (Career Technical Education) & STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) programs throughout the country. This includes funding for upgrading technology, investing in new tools and equipment, and professional development.

The growing demand for electric vehicles has created a demand for trained EV Auto Technicians, engineers, designers, and innovators. As a result, now is the ideal time to expand your CTE or STEAM programs with a high-quality, hands-on, and engaging EV program that prepares students for high-paying careers in this burgeoning EV sector. By taking advantage of these funding opportunities, you can help your students get the training they need to succeed in this rapidly growing field.

#2 Environmentally Friendly

One of the most obvious reasons to drive an electric vehicle is that they are more environmentally friendly than traditional gasoline-powered cars. EVs produce zero emissions and don’t contribute to air pollution or greenhouse gas emissions. Driving an EV can reduce your carbon footprint and help protect the planet for future generations.

#3 Lower Operating Costs

Another great reason to consider driving an electric vehicle is the lower operating costs. While the initial purchase price of an EV may be higher than a traditional car, the cost of ownership over time is much lower. Electric vehicles have lower fuel costs, require less maintenance, and have fewer moving parts that can break down. This means you can save money on fuel and maintenance over the life of the vehicle.

#4 Quiet and Comfortable Ride

Electric vehicles are much quieter than traditional gasoline-powered cars. This is because they lack a combustion engine, thus removing engine noise or vibration. EVs also provide a smooth and comfortable ride because they have a lower center of gravity, which improves handling & control.

#5 Instant Torque and Acceleration

Electric vehicles have instant torque, which means acceleration is quick & smooth.. This is because electric motors deliver maximum torque the second they receive power. This instant torque and acceleration give electric vehicle owners an exhilarating drive experience

#6 Range and Charging

Another common concern people have about electric vehicles is their range and charging time. However, as technology continues to improve, these concerns are becoming less of an issue. Many electric vehicles now have a range of over 200 miles on a single charge, and a growing number of fast-charging stations are available. With a bit of planning, you can easily charge your EV on longer trips and enjoy the many benefits of electric driving.

#7 Government Incentives

A growing number of government incentives are available to encourage people to buy electric vehicles. These incentives can include tax credits, rebates, and other financial incentives to help offset the cost of EV purchasing. By taking advantage of these incentives, you can save money and help support the growth of the electric vehicle industry.

There are many reasons why you should consider driving an electric vehicle. But, if you haven’t already switched to electric, let these seven reasons be your inspiration.

 

Interesting statistics about EV growth

 

To add, here are some interesting statistics about the growth of the electric vehicle industry, which shows EVs are gaining momentum.

  1. Workforce growth in EVs: According to the Department of Energy, employment in the electric vehicle industry in the US grew by 11% in 2020, with around 345,000 workers in the industry.
  2. Production #s of EVs: According to InsideEVs, a total of 718,247 electric vehicles were sold in the US in 2021, representing a 49% increase compared to the previous year.
  3. Schools with EV training programs: According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, more than 100 community colleges and technical schools across the US offer training programs in electric vehicle technology.
  4. Countries with EVs: According to the International Energy Agency, as of 2021, there are 22 countries with more than 1 million electric vehicles on the road. The US is one of these countries, with over 1.5 million EVs on the road.
  5. States pushing forward with laws around EVs: According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, as of March 2022, at least 22 states have adopted or proposed policies to increase electric vehicle adoption.
  6. Number of car brands with EVs: According to Edmunds, as of 2021, more than 30 car brands in the US offer electric vehicles.
  7. Number of STEM programs around EVs: According to the US Department of Energy, several STEM programs in the US focus on electric vehicle technology, including the National STEM Education Network and the Clean Cities University.
  8. Number of EV charging stations in the United States: According to the Department of Energy, as of March 2022, there are more than 103,000 public EV charging stations in the US, with over 349,000 charging outlets.
  9. Number of battery-swapping programs in the United States to shorten battery recharge time: As of 2021, there are no commercial battery-swapping programs in the US for electric vehicles. Innovation #s around EVs: According to the US Patent and Trademark Office, there were more than 28,000 patent applications related to electric vehicle technology filed in the US in 2020, representing a 26% increase compared to the previous year.
  10. EV sales are growing:
  • 10.6 million EV sales took place in 2022, a 57% increase over 2021.
  • The number of publicly accessible chargers around the world reached 1.8 million, an increase of 37% in 2021.
  • In 2030, EVs will account for more than 30% of all vehicles sold globally.
  • Curious about our stats? Here’s a link to our source: https://vehiclefreak.com/ev-statistics/ 

Exciting opportunities for CTE & STEAM programs

FUNDING TO EXPAND YOUR CTE & STEAM PROGRAMS WITH THE SWITCH!

The federal stimulus funds have created an opportunity to invest significantly in high-quality CTE & STEAM programs nationwide. Blending funding sources allow schools to upgrade technology and invest in new tools, equipment, and professional development. 

In 2021, US electric vehicle (EV) sales accounted for only 5% of sales, but by 2030 that percentage is expected to grow to just over 50%, according to a report from BloombergNEF. This growing demand for electric vehicles has, in turn, created a demand for trained EV Auto Technicians, engineers, designers, and innovators.

 

EVs help recruit new talent to the auto repair industry

Now is the ideal time to expand your CTE or STEAM programs with a high-quality, hands-on, and engaging EV program that prepares students for high-paying careers in this burgeoning EV sector.


The primary job directly linked to The Switch Lab™ program is EV Automotive Technician/Mechanic. However, The Switch Lab™ also prepares students to advance into the following careers:

  • Electrical & electronic equipment assemblers
  • Electrical Engineers
  • Electronic Engineers
  • Industrial Designers & Engineers
  • Mechanical Engineers

The Switch Lab™ develops workforce soft skills that are desired by all employers:

  • Teamwork and collaboration skills
  • Critical thinking or problem-solving skills
  • Communication skills
  • Engagement & Enthusiasm

Funding sources for CTE, STEM, and STEAM schools

FUNDING SOURCES

  • HEER – Higher Ed
  • ESSER – K-12  ($54.3 billion) STEM focus
    • ACTEonline.org – resources and information on funding
    • ESSER White Paper Attached
  • GEER – Governors Ed Relief
  • Perkins V Title 1 – CTE programs
  • Title IV Part A funding – State grants allocated to public school districts and charter schools
    • Any district that receives more than $30,000 must spend its funds in three specific areas:
      • Not less than 20 percent of funds must be spent on activities to support “well-rounded” education. This includes programs and activities such as school counseling, music and arts programs, STEM programs including computer science, foreign language, history, civics, geography, and accelerated learning programs (i.e., Advanced Placement, dual enrollment, and early college high schools).
  • Education Stabilization Fund Portal – info on allocations for all of the above funds.
  • Pages 4-5 show Perkins V allocations by state on October 2022. Texas has the most funding $70M https://s3.amazonaws.com/PCRN/file/Program_Memo-Estimated_FY_2022_Perkins_State_Allocations.pdf

Got questions? The Switch Lab team is here to assist you and your students in purchasing a Switch vehicle.

Charge up your CTE/STEAM/College Program with The Switch Lab™

The Switch Lab™ EV program is a hands-on classroom project that teaches students how to design, build, test, and drive a road-worthy electric vehicle. Students who participate in our program will have an advantage when entering college and will be better prepared to enter EV-related professions. 

Sonoma County, CA students recently participated in the 2023 SWITCH EV Rally to showcase their Switch vehicles, practice their troubleshooting skills, test their vehicles’ agility, and engage in other fun activities.

Students demonstrated their knowledge of appropriate safety procedures, automotive electrical and battery systems, plus teamwork, critical thinking, communication, and enthusiasm.

Is your school ready to make The Switch?

What Does The Switch Lab™ Include?

​​​​​​​The Switch Lab™ is unique with its easy access to all components, the use of generic parts, and the ability to be assembled and disassembled to meet the needs of multiple classes. We also offer curriculum, labs, tools, and a train-the-trainer workshop to ensure all of your instructors know how to teach the Switch. 

Switch Highlights:

  • The SWITCH EV was designed to be assembled, tested, and disassembled to prepare for the next class. 
  • The curriculum is modular – semester, summer school, and after-school.
  • Schools can use the completed vehicle for Cross-Curriculum with Engineering, CAD, Physics, and Fabrication.
  • All required components are included, and all the wiring is properly terminated, labeled, and color-coded to ensure successful completion.
  • We are in over 250 schools and colleges throughout the US and Canada.
  • We have train-the-trainer workshops to get instructors amped up! 

Make The Switch.

The Switch Lab™ is an engaging hands-on project that your students will love. It makes learning complex topics fun and exciting. This new EV technology isn’t ahead of its time. It’s right on time.

Our reusable EV Kit is ideal for students interested in renewable energy, advanced technology, or automobile design. The Switch Lab teaches students how to work with their hands, solve problems, collaborate as a team, learn about systems, and gain experience in cutting-edge automotive technology. Contact us today to learn more about how Switch Vehicles can benefit your school. Let’s grow the EV tech future together!

Exploring The Future of Electric Vehicles: Imagine What We Can Learn in 2023

Switch Vehicles - The Switch Lab EV education training

Exploring The Future Of Electric Vehicles: Imagine What We Can Learn In 2023

As we move further into the 21st century, the world is facing several challenges related to climate change and the need for sustainable energy sources. One technology that has garnered much attention in recent years is the electric vehicle (EV). While EVs are still a relatively small part of the overall automotive market, they are quickly gaining in popularity. They are seen as a key part of the solution to our environmental challenges.

EVs have the potential to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and combat climate change.

One of the biggest advantages of EVs is their potential to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. Unlike traditional internal combustion engines, EVs are powered by batteries that can be charged using electricity from various sources, including renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. With the right infrastructure in place, EVs can help reduce our reliance on polluting fossil fuels and help combat climate change.

EVs can improve air quality and reduce air pollution in cities.

Another advantage of EVs is their potential to improve air quality. Because they produce no emissions, EVs can help reduce air pollution in cities, a major health concern. The World Health Organization estimates that air pollution is responsible for over 7 million deaths yearly, making it one of the leading causes worldwide. By reducing emissions, EVs can help improve air quality and save lives.

The cost of batteries is currently a major challenge for the widespread adoption of EVs.

Despite these advantages, there are still many challenges to overcome for EVs to become more widespread. One of the biggest challenges is the cost of batteries, which are currently one of the most expensive components of EVs. However, as battery technology continues to improve and costs come down, EVs are becoming more affordable and accessible to a wider range of consumers.

The lack of infrastructure to support EVs is also a challenge that needs to be overcome.

Another challenge is the need for infrastructure to support EVs. For EVs to be truly effective, we need to have a network of charging stations so that people can recharge their vehicles when they are on the go. While some charging stations are already in place, there is still a long way to go before we have the infrastructure needed to support widespread EV adoption.

We can expect continued growth in the EV market, battery technology improvements, and infrastructure development to support EVs.

Despite these challenges, the future of EVs looks bright. As battery technology improves and costs continue to come down, more and more people will be able to afford EVs. And as the infrastructure to support EVs continues to develop, we will see more electric vehicles on the road.

So what can we expect in 2023? It’s hard to say for sure, but if current trends continue, we expect to see continued growth in the Electric Vehicle market, with more and more people choosing EVs as their primary mode of transportation. We may also see improvements in battery technology, which could make EVs even more affordable and effective. And with the continued development of infrastructure to support EVs, we can expect to see more charging stations and other support systems in place to help make EV ownership even more convenient.

In short, the future of EVs looks bright, and there is a lot to be excited about. As we move into 2023 and beyond, we can expect continued growth and development in this exciting technology, and we can only imagine what we will learn and discover along the way.

Learn by gaining hands-on experience by building a Switch Vehicle in 2023.

Is this the year you’ll make a switch? We hope so. It’s time to stop feeding fossil fuel companies and to begin an age of renewable energy in our commutes. These vehicles have great potential to take us into the 2030s with grace and substantial fuel savings. This new technology isn’t ahead of its time. It’s right on time.

If you want to purchase a Switch Vehicle for your school, but are concerned about how to obtain training, we offer a comprehensive Switch Vehicles Instructor Training program. These workshops are designed to teach Educators how to assemble the vehicles, problem solve, and promote the STEM Curriculum across the multiple education programs. Teachers love learning how to build our EV assembly kit, for it gets students engaged in something they’re excited to learn!

Upcoming Instructor Training Workshops include the following:

  • January 9, 2023, @ Switch Vehicles Headquarters in Sebastopol, CA
  • January 9, 2023, @ Alamo Colleges – St. Philips College in San Antonio, TX
  • January 23, 2023, @ Red River College Polytechnic in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
  • February 20, 2023, @ Switch Vehicles Headquarters in Sebastopol, CA
  • March 20, 2023, @ Saddleback Community College in Mission Viejo, CA
  • June 5, 2023, @ A-TEC Academy in Walpole, MA

Our reusable EV Kit is ideal for students interested in renewable energy, advanced technology, or automobile design. The Switch Lab teaches students how to work with their hands, solve problems, learn about systems, and gain experience in cutting-edge automotive technology. Contact us today to learn more about how Switch Vehicles can benefit your school.

The Rise of EV Vocational Programs

switch vehicles

The Time Is Right For EV programs

As the future brings us more and more Electric Vehicle options every year, Americans are beginning to recognize that we are swiftly moving into an EV future. This new technology beckons kids with an interest in engineering, repairs, and design. Our goal is to inspire a new generation of tech leaders.

We’re in Las Vegas this week for the SEMA show, where we’re showing off the Switch Labs curriculum to attendees, as well as building actual Switch vehicles right on the floor with volunteers. If you can attend, we highly recommend coming. Even if you don’t get a slot in the building process, it’s easy to see how fun the program is and how inspiring it can be to a younger generation.

We wish we could bring all interested parties to get involved, and to see how the curriculum can inspire and educate a new generation of students to the rise of EV technology and repair. Unfortunately, all we can do is arrange our sessions and invite participants to try the curriculum for themselves, with us teaching through the process in the same syllabus students will learn from one day. It’s important for us to convey that there are ways to bring Switch Labs to your school that will cost less than you think.

COVID Grant Programs

There’s never been a greater time to bring our EV program into your school. Federal grants for COVID-19 relief have created an unclaimed surplus for educators to add Switch Labs to their curriculum. This money sits unused in many cases and could be tapped to bring your students into 21st century technology.

In some states– South Dakota in particular- – these grants are easy to find. South Dakota has been building up an infrastructure for fast-charging EVs, and now, the state is offering COVID-19 relief money to further education and enrichment of South Dakota’s students. Get in touch with us if you’d like to learn more about how your state can take advantage of grant money to bring this new frontier to your students! 

Our reusable EV Kit is ideal for students interested in renewable energy, advanced technology, or automobile design. The Switch Lab teaches students how to work with their hands, solve problems, learn about systems, and gain experience in cutting-edge automotive technology. Contact us today to learn more about how Switch Vehicles can benefit your school.

Gender Equity & The Switch Lab: Why Parents Love Our Program

An invitation

Our world is growing up and opening its eyes to kids who have previously been overlooked for tutelage in renewable energy technology. The shortsighted emphasis in education on just young, able-bodied men is giving way. We’re moving to a more diverse, open future for all of us. Gone are the days when STEM/STEAM programs only included young men. Girls and boys have equal opportunities to show their love for science, technology, engineering, math, art, and design. And Switch Labs specifically wants to invite young women!

The Switch Lab is a fun, safe, exciting program that welcomes young men and women equally. Our program offers support and development of young minds to the possibilities of new technology. Since we began the program, we’ve noticed that parents love us. They know their kids get an exceptional education and develop people skills and team-building skills. In particular, girls and young women are signing up more and more.

Renewable-energy automotive is a cutting-edge industry. In the near future, it will become a significant career market. Early participation and understanding will help both genders improve their chances of success in this emerging industry. What’s more, it doesn’t require a specific type of person to take a hand in education and building– male, female, non-disabled, differently-abled. Any student with curiosity and interest in solar-powered car technology can learn and participate in this program. This moment in time is a remarkable chance to foster children in vehicle design that includes everyone and excludes no one.

Our reusable EV Kit is an ideal project for any student interested in renewable energy, advanced technology, or automobile design. It teaches students how to work with their hands, solve problems, learn about systems, and gain experience in cutting-edge automotive technology. To learn more about how Switch Vehicles can benefit your school, contact us today.

What Makes A Great STEM Program?

For our June blog, we want to introduce you to one of the trainers who are in the process of enrolling his school in our Switch Vehicles program. But before we introduce you to Glenn Dethy, we want to let you know about our upcoming workshop in June:

Switch Vehicles Train-The-Trainer Workshops Now Available

There is a train-the-trainer workshop taking place in Rockford, Illinois, June 21-25, 2021. If you or someone you know who teaches vocational, STEM, or automotive classes and is happy to travel to Illinois, please share the registration link with them. Space is limited, so act fast! https://theswitchlab.com/workshops/ 

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How EV Training Gives Young Minds Career Advantages

At Switch Vehicles, we are huge fans of electric vehicles. All that is going on globally shows that electric cars are here to stay and that many careers will flourish in this industry. We believe that hands-on training with electric vehicles will give young minds many career advantages.

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The Future of Automotive Technical Education

Many people have been questioning the future of automotive technical education. The pandemic has been challenging to the automotive industry, for sure. But there is always good to find in bad situations. As we look into our “pretend” crystal ball to see the future, here is what we believe is unfolding for the future of automotive technical education.

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