CRC Industries recently announced its annual car project, a cherry red 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air featuring a hydrogen-powered engine. The upgraded vehicle, which will be unveiled at SEMA 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada, on Nov. 5, will be auctioned to raise funds for CRC’s Build for the Future scholarship program, aimed at supporting the next generation of skilled tradespeople.
Build for the Future, CRC’s flagship scholarship program in partnership with TechForce Foundation, is designed to alleviate the financial burdens of the continued education and training needed for prospective tradespeople to go trade school. Beginning in 2023, CRC has sponsored the modification of a specialty vehicle to auction to the public. Proceeds from the sale of the vehicle directly benefit the scholarship program. This year’s upgraded ‘57 Chevy will be auctioned to the public in late 2025 or early 2026. Individuals interested in following the car to the auction can sign up for updates at crcbuildforthefuture.com, or follow CRC on Instagram @crcauto.
The ‘57 Chevy features red and black interiors and a special twist – a hydrogen-powered, Edelbrock-supercharged Gen3 HEMI engine built by Mike Copeland, retired GM engineer and CEO of Arrington Performance. This build proves that a hot rod can run on hydrogen without sacrificing horsepower or the feel and sound of a traditional gasoline engine. The car build, sponsored by CRC, was led by racing legends Clay Millican (NHRA Top Fuel World Champion Driver) and Jeff Lutz (from “Street Outlaws” and Lutz Race Cars). This is the first hydrogen-powered hot rod of its kind auctioned to the public. Other features include a TCI automatic transmission, power steering, and power brakes.
“At CRC, ‘Together, We Get It Done’™ is more than a slogan,” said Steven Drake, President of CRC Industries, Americas. “It captures our commitment to providing solutions that help those who do the important work that keeps the world moving forward. Build for the Future is a natural extension of that commitment by providing support to train the next generation.”
Earlier this year, CRC auctioned a supercharged 2006 Pontiac GTO, which funded scholarships for 10 aspiring tradespeople.
“We’re thrilled to continue our partnership with CRC in supporting future trades professionals,” said Jennifer Maher, CEO of TechForce Foundation. “The demand for technicians is high, and programs like Build for the Future provide vital support for students seeking rewarding careers.”
The Build for the Future scholarship will award financial aid to 10 students pursuing technical education (five scholarships for automotive trades, and five for industrial or welding careers). Of these scholarships, three will be awarded to women. Each recipient is guaranteed at least $2,500, with the possibility of up to $8,000, depending on auction proceeds. If the auction exceeds $80,000, all excess funds will be donated to TechForce to provide additional scholarships.
To learn more about CRC’s Build for the Future program, please visit crcbuildforthefuture.com.
About CRC’s Build for the Future Scholarship Program: CRC Industries launched the Build for the Future scholarship program in cooperation with the TechForce Foundation to inspire young men and women to explore a rewarding career in a technical trade and empower them through strong community, scholarships, and career placement programs.
About TechForce Foundation: TechForce Foundation is a national nonprofit 501(c)(3) whose mission is to guide students through education and into careers as professional technicians. TechForce supports the technician workforce by awarding more than $4 million annually in scholarships and grants to financially disadvantaged students. The foundation works to change perceptions of this evolving “new collar” STEM career and provides local career exploration and workforce development programs. TechForce’s online network connects students, working technicians, instructors, employers, industry professionals, and enthusiasts, providing free resources for aspiring technicians.
About CRC Industries: CRC Industries, Inc. is a global leader in the production of specialty products and formulations for the do-it-yourselfer and maintenance professional, serving the automotive, industrial, electrical, marine, heavy truck, hardware, and construction markets. CRC Industries produces a complete range of cleaners, lubricants, corrosion inhibitors, protective coatings, degreasers, greases, additives, and specialty products tailored for specific customer maintenance and repair needs. CRC manufactures, sells, and distributes its products worldwide. CRC trademarked brands include CRC®, BRAKLEEN®, SmartWasher®, K&W®, Sta-Lube®, Marykate®, Weld-Aid®, and Evapo-Rust®.
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