Tool donation helps automotive students thrive during COVID-19

The arrival of 12 additional toolsets will allow automotive apprentices at Camosun College to focus on hands-on learning and not worry about cleaning shared tools.

“Sharing tools and working on cars together was part of the daily norm before COVID-19,” explains Patrick Jones, Automotive Instructor with Camosun. “The college is really grateful to the Ed Coates Memorial Foundation for their generous support for our students as we all adapt to these challenging times.”

The donation by the Ed Coates Memorial Foundation of 12 full set tool box sets means foundation and apprentice students can now focus on completing their practical skills.

The Ed Coates Memorial Foundation was formed by Coates’ wife, Marlyn, and his children, Samantha, Sarah, Ian, and Candace, after his sudden passing in February 2014.

“Our family established the foundation to carry on the legacy of my father and his generous spirit,” says Candace Gottschalk, Coates’ youngest daughter and Vice President of Human Resources at Lordco Auto Parts. “He founded the first Lordco Auto Parts store in 1974 and grew the business to become the largest distributor and retailer of aftermarket auto parts and accessories in Western Canada. He was a great businessman who understood the importance of education in the automotive aftermarket industry. The foundation is our way of honoring him and continuing his legacy of giving back to communities here in B.C. and supporting the automotive industry.”

Trades students, including automotive students, are back on campus for hands-on training with new guidelines, rules and physical distancing to keep everyone safe. Theory work continues to be delivered online with a live, instructor-led class.

About the Ed Coates Memorial Foundation
The Foundation was born through the drive and generosity of Ed Coates. He supported his local community of Maple Ridge, as well as other communities throughout BC through his business Lordco Auto Parts Ltd. The impact that Ed had was significant and unforgettable. The Foundation embodies these same principles that Ed lived by each day. For more information, visit edcoatesfoundation.org.

About Camosun College
Established in 1971, Camosun is one of the largest colleges in British Columbia with campuses on the Traditional Territories of the Lekwungen and W̱SÁNEĆ peoples.

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