Ready, Set, Race: Jerry’s Abra Auto Body of Mankato Helps Drive Nitro-X Summer Camp Success
Abra, a leading collision repair provider, delivering collision repairs that align with OEM standards through independently owned and operated locations staffed by highly trained technicians, is proud to announce Jerry’s Abra, owned and operated by the Kottschade family, recently had the opportunity to get involved in the community. They partnered with the Minnesota State Transportation Center of Excellence to support the second annual Nitro-X Summer Camp at Minnesota State University, Mankato, helping introduce local students to careers in the transportation and automotive industries.
The three-day camp brought together sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students from across southern Minnesota for hands-on learning experiences centered around radio-controlled (RC) vehicles. Participants learned how to assemble, paint, maintain and operate their vehicles before putting their newly developed skills to the test during a final race competition.
As part of the camp, Jerry’s Abra hosted students and faculty during a special session focused on vehicle body customization. Participants spent time painting their RC car bodies, learning about refinishing techniques, and enjoying lunch together. The activity was made possible through the support of industry partners PPG and 3M, which provided materials and resources to help bring the experience to life.
“We were excited to welcome these students and give them a hands-on look at the skills, creativity and technology involved in collision repair,” said Geri Kottschade, owner of Abra Mankato. “Programs like Nitro-X help spark interest in our industry at an early age and show students that there are many rewarding career paths available in transportation and automotive repair.”
The camp concluded with a race day competition at the Center for Renewable Energy on the Minnesota State University campus, where students showcased the vehicles they had built and customized during the week.
“Hands-on programs like Nitro-X help bridge the gap between education and future careers,” said Damien Reyna, Chief Operating Officer, Driven Brands Collision Group. “By giving students the chance to work with technology, problem-solve and explore transportation-related fields, we’re helping create meaningful pathways into an industry that offers tremendous opportunities for growth and success.”
Jerry’s Abra’s involvement reflects the business’s ongoing commitment to supporting educational initiatives and workforce development efforts in the local community while helping students discover future career possibilities.
For more information visit abraauto.com.
