News

The rumble of engines and gleam of chrome weren’t just background noise for Ryder Claypool. They were the soundtrack to his dream of pursuing a career in the automotive industry. His passion for cars led him to enroll in the Southeast Community College Auto Collision Repair Technology program after he graduated from Lincoln Southwest High School. On May 14, he walked across the stage at Pinnacle Bank Arena to receive his associate’s degree and his childhood dream is one step closer to reality.

“I spent my entire life surrounded by cars and I have always loved them for that reason,” Claypool said. “From a young age I knew I wanted to pursue a career in the automotive industry to follow my love for cars.”

He stepped foot on SCC’s Milford Campus knowing he would be well prepared for a future in the auto collision industry. Claypool was helped along his journey by instructors Craig Shaw, Cayden Riley and Jered Roth. They gave him nothing but support, opportunity and determination to push himself harder everyday to get better. He also found a support system with his classmates.

“My favorite part about SCC has been the friendships I have made while here,” he said. “I found I looked forward to coming to school and honing my skills more than enjoying the weekend.”

While in the program, Claypool had an internship with Eustis Body Shop and was offered a full-time job with the shop after graduation. While at Eustis, he plans to expand on what he was taught at SCC to specialize in paintless dent repair.

“The Auto Collision Repair Technology program at SCC has given me every tool and opportunity I could ask for to prepare me for my career,” Claypool explained. “I was also given the opportunity to make mistakes and learn from them. The knowledge I gained at SCC will be something I will carry with me forever.”

Claypool is one of the lucky ones who was able to turn his passion into a career. He would tell himself to take this career path if he had the chance to do it again.

“If I could give 18-year-old Ryder advice, it would be to never give up on what you are passionate about,” said Claypool. “I can’t imagine where I would be if I gave up on what I was passionate about just because it was difficult. I would also tell myself that advocating for yourself is one of the most important things you can do. It can open up so many possibilities you never thought of.”

Jennifer Snyder
Communications Specialist
402-323-3393
jsnyder@southeast.edu