TCHS student turns family legacy into career path

The Chester County Technical College High School (TCHS) Pennock's Bridge campus is making a significant impact on students like Dominick Reyes, providing them with the skills and knowledge needed for a successful career. Dominick's story highlights how the program blends personal passion with professional training.
Dominick, a dedicated student in the TCHS Auto Collision program, is turning his family’s automotive legacy into a promising career path. “I've always been fascinated with cars, especially working with my grandfather,” Dominick said, describing his early exposure to automotive work. His path to TCHS was further influenced by his cousin, who studied in the Health Career Pathways program, and his brother, who also pursued automotive service at the school. Today, his brother owns a shop in Kennett Square, opening doors for potential future collaboration.
The Auto Collision program at TCHS provides students with comprehensive, hands-on training to repair vehicles damaged in collisions. Dominick has already earned his Occupational Safety and Health Administration safety certification and is working toward his Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR) certification —both critical for advancing in the industry.
Beyond the classroom, Dominick is gaining real-world experience through a co-op position at 3D Collision Center. “3D has been, honestly, one of the best work choices I ever could have made,” he said. His role includes performing tear-downs, writing estimates, and rebuilding vehicles, helping him to refine his skills and prepare for a professional career.
Dominick recognizes the increasing demand for skilled auto body technicians. “It's a workforce that hasn't been doing so well recently, and it's starting to pick back up with all these newer cars,” he explained. “A lot of people who have knowledge are starting to retire, and they’re always needing new people. So, I figured why not become one of the newer, next generation of
auto body technicians?”
After graduation, Dominick plans to continue working in the field, learning from experienced professionals, and potentially pursuing further education at the Automotive Training Center. His five-year goal is to establish himself as an expert in the auto body industry. Dominick’s journey reflects the value of technical education and hands-on experience, showcasing how TCHS empowers students to build successful careers in high-demand industries.
TCHS is now accepting applications for the 2025-2026 school year. Students are encouraged to apply before the Summer Decision Deadline on May 30, 2025. After this date, applications will
close until the start of the new school year. Don’t miss the opportunity to take the next step
toward your future. Apply today at www.technicalcollegehighschool.org.