What's New
The Shop Rat Foundation Receives A Generous Grant In Support Of Project Based Learning Program
posted on December 13th, 2011
“We are beyond thrilled to have received such a generous contribution to our program,” said Kelly Burr, Program Director of The Shop Rat Foundation. The funds provided by the Jackson Community Foundation will support such projects as Wheelie Cars, Solar Powered Vehicles, Underwater Remotely Operated Vehicles and so much more. The project-based learning curriculum utilized by the Shop Rat Foundation introduces students to the skilled trades and reinforces Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics concepts in ... more
Our 2010/2011 Shop Rat Education Programs here in Jackson County have begun!
posted on November 30th, 2010
We ... more2010 Shop Rat Program Projects Announced
posted on September 8th, 2010
Check out our 2010 Shop Rat Program Projects:
Click Here To see the projects!
... more
Shop Rat Wheelie Car Wins Editors Choice at 2010 Detriot Maker Faire
posted on August 2nd, 2010
JACKSON, Mich., August 2nd, 2010 —The Shop Rat Wheelie Car, Pumpkin Embalmer, and the Twinkie Car along with hundreds of other unique project were on display at the 2010 Detriot Maker Faire. The goal of the Maker Faire is to unite, inspire, inform, and entertain a growing community of highly imaginative and resourceful people who undertake amazing projects in their backyards, ... more2010 Shop Rat/SME Summer Camp is a Success!
posted on July 23rd, 2010
Summer Camp is Full!
posted on July 7th, 2010
Were proud to announce that we have filled all the spots for the Shop Rat Summer Camp starting July 19th! ... more
We need volunteers for our Summer Camp!
posted on June 29th, 2010
Anyone want to volunteer at our ShopRat Summer Camp building awesome projects with Middle and High School Students, we will fully train you... Its fun and rewarding :)
Volunteers needed for Shop Rat Summer Camp!
Location: Jackson Area Career Center
6800 Browns Lake Road
Jackson, MI 49201
Date: July 19th – 23rd 9am – 3pm
Shifts: (1st) 9am – 12pm (2nd) 12:00 – 3pm
Projects that will be completed with the students: ... more
Check out Califonia's Laney College ShopRat Car built by area high school students
posted on June 25th, 2010
Aligning with the Shop Rat Foundation’s mission, Laney College recognizes the need to inspire the youth in the ... moreChelsea Middle School to offer a six week Shop Rat Electric Wheelie Car Build Program
posted on June 25th, 2010
We are in the works with Chelsea Middle School to offer an afterschool, six week program to 6th - 8th grade students.
During the program, students will build a Shop Rat Electric Wheelie Car to learn about electric motors and control systems all while learning how to use tools and machinery!
More detials on this program coming soon! ... more
Shop Rat Student Year End Celebration at the Michigan International Speedway
posted on June 25th, 2010
Its time for all of the 2009/2010 to celebrate their completion of the Shop Rat Education Program, with their families, teachers and more at the Michigan International Speedway (MIS)!
MIS has graciously allowed all of the students and their families to spend a full-filled day at the race track!
11:00 - 12:00 Guided behind the scenes tour of the Michigan International Speedway
12:00- 1:00 Lunch and Awards Ceremony
1:00 - 2:30 Pace Car Rides around the track, Wheelie Car ... more
2010 Focus:HOPE Shop Rat Wheelie Car Competition was a hit at the Michigan International Speedway!
posted on June 12th, 2010
With funding provided by the SME Education Foundation, ... moreDetroit's Education Leaders are Applauding Kids Building Wheelie Cars at Focus: HOPE
posted on April 27th, 2010
Shop Rat Night @ Jackson Area Career Center
posted on April 20th, 2010
The Shop Rat Foundation and the Jackson Area Career Center partnered to present a Shop Rat Student Open House at the JACC April 14th 6-8pm.
All Shop Rat Students were invited to bring their whole family for pizza, refreshments, wheelie car rides,hands on projects sponsored by the JACC, tours of the career centers hands on programs, and displays of projects built by our Shop Rat Students!
Students ... more
Shop Rat Hosts 2nd Year Of Classes at Chelsea Schools
posted on March 17th, 2010
Its the second year that the Shop Rat Program has taken part in Chelsea School's Super Saturday Event.
Ten Chelsea 4th & 5th grade students get to build Tin Can Robots, Delta Dart Airplanes, Hot Air Balloons, and Mouse Trap Racers during this 12 hour Shop Rat Program.
Super Saturday is a four-week program on Saturday mornings for kids from pre-school to 6th grade, giving them the opportunity to explore new interests and activities without a huge ... more
Shop Rat Project Set for 2010 Hands-on Learning Fair
posted on March 17th, 2010
The Shop Rat Foundation always participates in the local Hands-on Learning Fair, and this year, we plan to make picture frames with the youthful attendees of the event.
Students will learn how to manipulate plastics and actually bend and form their own photo frame!
This event will be held July 15th - 16th. Location and more information coming soon! ... more
Shop Rat Summer Camp set for July19th - 23rd
posted on March 17th, 2010
A Detriot Shop Rat Pilot Program set to Start April 9th!
posted on March 16th, 2010
A seven week Shop Rat Pilot Program is set to begin April 9th for a group of 12 Detroit 8th Graders.
The Shop Rat Foundation has been working with two other non-profits, Focus: HOPE and the SME Education Foundation to offer a 7 week Wheelie Car Build Program.
Then students of the program will compete with one another to win the Wheelie Car Competition that is tentatively scheduled to be held at MIS, during a ... more
June and August Nascar Races set the stage for Shop Rat Wheelie Car Fundraiser
posted on March 5th, 2010
This will be the second year that the Shop Rat Foundation hosts it Wheelie Car Race Fundraiser at the Michigan International Speedway during both the June and the August Race Weekends.
For a small donation, participants can race or just simply drive the Shop Rat Electric Wheelie Car and experience the ride of their lives.
Proceeds from the fundraisers go to the Shop Rat Foundation and the MIS Cares Foundation for their programs.
More Details to come ... more
March is the Season for Wheelie Car Rides at Local Open Houses
posted on March 1st, 2010
The Shop Rat Program and the infamous Wheelie Cars will be at three local open houses during the month of march. Come check out our Wheelie Car and learn more about our program at the following events:
Jackson Area Career Center Open House
March 18th, 5-8pm
Classic Turning Open House
March 23rd 5-8pm
Advance Turning Open House
March 25th 4-7pm
See you there! ... more
Shop Rat Foundation Surveys Jackson's Youth
posted on February 18th, 2010
The Shop Rat Foundation would like to invite all of Jackson County's 6-8th grade students to participate in a three question survey to measure their interest in programs such as Shop Rat.
In 2011, the Shop Rat Foundation will partner with the Jackson Area Manufacturers’ Association (JAMA) to expand our programming to offer it to ALL 6-10th grade students in Jackson County. JAMA has the capability and resources to expand our programs that include instructors, ... more
Shop Rat on JTV's Variety Show and Bart Hawley Show
posted on February 16th, 2010
JTV, Jackson's local television entertainment source, has taken an interest in the Shop Rat Program and the Foundation and stopped out to our classroom to take a first hand look of the program.
Students got to drive the wheelie car for the camera while representatives of Shop Rat shared information about the program.
Although this has already aired on JTV, video footage of this will soon be posted on www.shoprat.org ... more
Year End Shop Rat Student Celebration to be held at MIS
posted on February 1st, 2010
Tentatively scheduled for Mid-July, the Shop Rat Student Year End Celebration will be held at the Michigan International Speedway.
Pace Car Rides, Wheelie Car Rides on the track, Tours of the Speedway, food and awards are some of the festivities planned for this special day for over 100 Jackson Shop Rat Students.
More to come! ... more
JACKSON'S FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH TO HOLD SHOP RAT CLASSES AT YOUTH CENTER
posted on January 25th, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Contact:
Amanda Proctor
The Shop Rat Foundation
517-769-2100- 517-769-6902 (Fax)
Shoprat@gmail.com
www.shoprat.org
JACKSON’S FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH TO HOLD SHOP RAT CLASSES AT YOUTH CENTER
The Shop Rat Foundation is proud to partner with the First Presbyterian Church to hold Shop Rat Classes at their youth center starting in February of 2010.
With a great location, located right by Jackson High School, the First Presbyterian Youth Center will open their doors to 10-12 middle and high school ... more
Shop Rat Looking to Hire Another Instructor
posted on December 10th, 2009
Hands-On Education Program Instructor
The Shop Rat Foundation , a 501 c 3 non profit education foundation holds afterschool extracurricular classes to teach middle and high school students how to use tools and machinery while building innovative projects like hovercrafts, motorcycles and wheelie cars. We are looking for a very energetic, hard working, self motivated individual who is able to juggle many projects while remaining true to our mission. Position will start part-time in February to ... more
Shoprat on Facebook and Twitter
posted on December 10th, 2009
Keep updated with the Shoprat Foundations activity by checking out our facebook and twitter page!
Shoprat Facebook!
Shoprat Twitter!
... more
SHOPRAT FOUNDATION RECEIVES $10,000 GRANT FROM THE JACKSON COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
posted on December 1st, 2009
SHOPRAT FOUNDATION RECEIVES $10,000 GRANT FROM THE JACKSON COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Amanda Proctor
The Shop Rat Foundation
517-769-2100
12/1/2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(JACKSON, Michigan)—“The Shop Rat Foundation has been awarded a grant of $10,000 by the Jackson County Community Foundation,” Amanda Proctor said today.
According to Ms. Proctor, the grant will be used to support the Shop Rat Foundation’s operations. “Our organization has grown considerably in the last several years. The Shop Rat Education ... more
Shoprat Loves the Connect a Million Initiative
posted on November 30th, 2009
In April 2009, Time Warner Cable announced its largest-ever charitable commitment of $100 million cash and in-kind over five years to inspire students to pursue science and technology education and careers.
According to national experts, the next generation of youth in the United States is not prepared to take on the challenges of the 21st century.
Eighty percent of jobs created in the next decade will require math and science skills. However, ... more
TechShop: What a great idea!
posted on November 30th, 2009
So many people want to build and create, but may not always have the tools or resources to put their creative mind to the test.
Then there is TechShop: What a great idea
Visit Website Here
TechShop is a 15,000 square-foot membership-based workshop that provides members with access to tools and equipment, instruction, and a creative and supportive community of like-minded people so you can build the things you have always wanted to ... more
Teens Turn Thumbs Down On Manufacturing Career, New Poll Shows
posted on November 25th, 2009
This is why we are here....to inspire this generation and show that building and creating can be a fun a rewarding career..
Despite assertions from manufacturers that they will need a new breed of highly skilled workers in the years ahead and job opportunities will abound for today’s youth, U.S. teenagers in large numbers want to wear white collars, not blue, when they launch their careers. more... ... more
Jackson Area Career Center FIRST Robotics Team Looking for New Members
posted on November 23rd, 2009
Career Center FIRST Robotics Team Looking for New Members
JACKSON, Mich. – The Jackson Area Career Center’s FIRST Robotics team – the Jacktown Vectors –will hold an information meeting for interested students, parents, and mentors on Tuesday, Dec. 8, at 6:00 p.m. at Jackson Area Career Center.
The Vectors are looking for high school students interested in designing and building a robot to compete in FIRST Robotics competitions this winter. The robot will be built ... more
Tinkering Makes Comeback Amid Crisis - From the Wall Street Journal
posted on November 23rd, 2009
Tinkering Makes Comeback Amid Crisis- From the Wall Street Journal...great article..
See Article here
... more
2009/2010 Shop Rat Education Program- New Pictures
posted on November 16th, 2009
We are well in our way into the 2009/2010 Shop Rat Education Program.
Students have built mousetrap vehicles, smart robots, and other projects during the first few weeks of the program.
Check out some pictures of some of the students and the projects that they are working on!
2009 Manpower Top Ten Hardests Jobs to Fill still show the need for Hands-on Education
posted on November 12th, 2009
... more
A Letter Of Support From a Citizen and Retired Teacher
posted on November 9th, 2009
Check out this email from a supportive retired teacher, Karen Channell
Hi--I'm a retired teacher and I am so proud and pleased with what you are doing in Shop Rats. It is exactly what should be going on as part of school--preparing them for life and letting them get involved with and enjoy learning. I'm old, but RIGHT ON!
When I retired 5 years ago, it wasn't because of the kids (I loved them). I loved ... more
Shop Rat Class Holiday Schedule
posted on November 4th, 2009
We will not have classes during the following holiday weeks. (the class will not be in session for the entire week of that holiday.
THANKSGIVING (NOV. 23-27TH)
CHRISTMAS (DEC. 21- 25TH)
NEW YEARS ( DEC 28TH - JAN 1ST) ... more
The Shop Rat Foundation -guests of 2009 Focus:Hope Walk
posted on October 12th, 2009
THE SHOPRAT FOUNDATION WERE GUESTS OF THE 2009 FOCUS:HOPE WALK
The Shop Rat Foundation was invited by Focus:Hope to offer Wheelie Car rides to participants of the walk along with offering the opportunity for children to tinker with the many small projects that were built during past Shop Rat Education Programs.
more
So Who Pays For Many Of The Things We Dont Think About???
posted on October 6th, 2009
A SPECIAL THANKS TO PEAK MANUFACTURING AND THE SALOW FAMILY FOR THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE SHOP RAT FOUNDATION
You may have seen a Shop Rat Van with cool decals all over it, or a large Wheelie Riders trailer towing behind it, and you may have wondered, “how is a non-profit paying for these materials with donations and sponsorships meant to go towards Shop Rat programs”.
more
Shop Rat Wheelie Car Goes To Hollywood
posted on September 25th, 2009
Shop Rat Wheelie Car Goes to Hollywood!!!
The Shop Rat Foundation recently took a trip to California for a special project. During the off-time of the trip, we took the wheelie car to Hollywood, we like to call it ‘marketing research’- :). We first visited the Hollywood ... more
Shoprat Foundation Partners with Junior Achievement to Offer Hands On Educational Lessons During the Shop Rat Education Program!
posted on September 23rd, 2009
THE SHOP RAT FOUNDATION PARTNERS WITH JUNIOR ACHEIVEMENT TO OFFER HANDS ON EDUCATIONAL LESSONS DURING THE SHOP RAT EDUCATION PROGRAM
The Shop Rat Foundation is very excited to partner with Junior Achievement to offer a three week project that will consist of the Shop Rat Students creating their own manufacturing company and actually producing parts. Junior Achievement programs help prepare young people for the real world by showing them how to generate ... more
Special Thanks to SMP Fabworks!- Heres a Shop Rat for ya!
posted on September 23rd, 2009
THIS IS A PERFECT EXAMPLE FOR OUR YOUNG SHOPRATS!!!
The Shop Rat Foundation recently took at trip to California and we needed to ship a wheelie car. Chris Salow, did a quick search online and found a really cool unique shop that focuses on custom bumpers, roll cages, custom suspension and many other fabrication projects.
more
Shop Rat Foundation Participates in 2009 Focus: Hope Walk
posted on September 21st, 2009
The Shop Rat Foundation has been asked to participate in the 2009 Focus:HOPE walk.
Celebrating 41 Years of Uniting People across Metro Detroit, the 2009 Focus: HOPE walk will be held on Sunday October 11th at 12:30pm.
The Shop Rat Foundation will be providing Wheelie Car Rides to the public along with displaying other projects that students have completed in past Shop Rat Education Programs. We look forward to the upcoming opportunities that may develop with ... more
Shop Rat Goes on the Road to Foster Children Camp!
posted on September 1st, 2009
Through our Community Outreach programs, The Shop Rat Foundation worked with 24 children at the REJ Foundation's Youth Summer Camp to build a variety of projects including a Wheelie Car, Mousetrap Catapults, Wind Turbines, Solar Powered cars, along with many other projects.
Made possible by the REJ Foundation, children ages 6-12 whose mothers are in prison, come together for fun and support at the Crossroads for Youth Adventure Center. Each day of the camp, the children ... more
MIS Shop Rat/NASCAR Foundation Fundraiser
posted on August 18th, 2009
Shop Rat Foundation Partners with the NASCAR Foundation during Race Weekend at MIS
The Shop Rat Foundation held a joint fundraiser with the NASCAR Foundation at MIS August 14th – 16th. Wheelie Cars, which were built by middle school aged students during the Shop Rat Education Program, were the stars of the fundraiser in which race fans had the opportunity to get behind the wheel and race for the win!
For a donation, fans got to experience ... more
Shop Rat at 2009 Learning Fair
posted on August 17th, 2009
Attendees of the 2009 Learning Fair held at the Jackson Area Career Center were not short of things to do from the various hands on activities including several activities provided by the Shop Rat Foundation.
The Shop Rat Foundation's booth allowed students from K-12th grade the opportunity to build an airplane from three different kits, based on age groups.
Along with the opportunity to build and test these airplanes, students also got to tinker and ... more
2009 Shop Rat Summer Camp
posted on August 3rd, 2009
The Shop Rat Foundation, with support of the SME Education Foundation, rolled out its first annual Shop Rat Summer Camp.
This week long day camp was held at the Jackson Area Career Center within the machining and auto body lab rooms.
Over 40 students from various public, private and home schools participated in this free camp building and tinkering with a variety of projects.
Projects included, Wheelie Cars, both the old style and the 'suped-up' model, ... more
Shop Rat Foundation & MIS Cares Foundation Joint Fundraiser set for August 14th-16th -NASCAR Races
posted on August 3rd, 2009
The Shop Rat Foundation and the MIS Cares Foundation is working together at the August 14th-16th Nascar races at the Michigan International Speedway to raise money for both foundations.
The Shop Rat Electric Wheelie Car has shocked people from California, to North Carolina, to Wisconsin and in our home state of Michigan, not to mention the many other places these wheelie cars have amazed people.
The Foundations decided to utilize this shocking car to help their ... more
Shop Rat at REJ Foundation's Foster Children Camp
posted on August 2nd, 2009
The Shop Rat Foundation will be working with 24 children at the REJ Foundation's Youth Summer Camp to build a variety of projects including a Wheelie Car, Mousetrap Catapults, Wind Turbines, Solar Powered cars, along with many other projects.
Made possible by the REJ Foundation, children ages 6-12 whose mothers are in prison will come together for fun and support at the Crossroads for Youth Adventure Center. Each day of the camp, the children will work ... more
Shop Rat at 2009 I Can Make It Summer Camp
posted on July 12th, 2009
Shop Rat Foundation works with Students of JAMA'S 2009 I Can Make It Camp
4th-6th grade students attending the 2009 I Can Make It Summer Camp not only got to take a spin on a Shop Rat Electric Wheelie Car, but they also got to build a catapult using a mousetrap and other materials during the Shop Rat segment of the camp.
The Shop Rat Foundation donated its time and resources to build projects with the attendees ... more
2009 Fox Valley Technical College Chopper Build
posted on June 30th, 2009
... more
Registration Open for Shop Rat Summer Camp
posted on June 23rd, 2009
Registration Packets have been mailed to all students on our waiting list to enroll for the first annual Shop Rat Summer Camp!
July 20 - 24th
Jackson Area Career Center
9am -3pm Monday- Friday (Lunch Provided)
Open to new students first, then if there are still openings it will be open to current/past students. (Only 35 openings)
Projects: Suped-up Wheelie Car, Wind/Solar Projects, Water Balloon Launcher and Water Cannons.
Cost: Free thanks to the SME Education Foundation!
... more
Results of the 2009 Shop Rat Electric Wheelie Car Competition
posted on June 11th, 2009
The 2009 First Annual Shop Rat Electric Wheelie Car Competition went spectacular! Five teams including Advance Turning, 3- different classes all held at Classic Turning, and Peak Manufacturing, all competed to win this fun, unique and innovative competition.
After an oval relay race and an elimination style round of slalom course driving, the 1st place winner of this first annual competition was Advance Turning. Not only did they come into first place, they also won the ... more
NY Times support of the trades
posted on June 1st, 2009
The case for working with your hands: NYT article
The television show “Deadliest Catch” depicts commercial crab fishermen in the Bering Sea. Another, “Dirty Jobs,” shows all kinds of grueling work; one episode featured a guy who inseminates turkeys for a living. The weird fascination of these shows must lie partly in the fact that such confrontations with material reality have become exotically unfamiliar. Many of us do work that feels more surreal than real. Working ... more
2009 SHOPRAT ELECTRIC WHEELIE CAR COMPETITION
posted on May 26th, 2009
... more
Shop Rat Friends in Alabama win the 2009 Basic Utility Vehicle Competition
posted on April 21st, 2009
Congratulations to our Shop Rat friends in Alabama!
Calera High School Students participated in the 2009 Basic Utility Vehicle (BUV) Competition and won first in its class and outscored every team in the competition taking home 1st place! As stated on the BUV Website www.drivebuv.org “This annual event harnesses the creative energy of college students from across the nation in an effort to develop a simple, low-cost utility vehicle that can benefit low-income people ... more
Wheelie Car Build in LA- WESTEC 2009
posted on April 17th, 2009
Westec 2009
The Shop Rat Foundation would like to start by thanking the SME and its Education Foundation for having us at the 2009 Westec to unveil the Shop Rat Electric Wheelie Car Competition.
Throughout the week the Shop Rat Foundation met so many great people who share the same passion as we do to educate our youth in fun and unique ways.
We had a great response to the Wheelie Car Project and after hundreds ... more
Advance Turning & Manufacturing Inc- The Newest Shop Rat Education Program Host
posted on March 20th, 2009
Advance Turning & Manufacturing Inc
The Newest Host for Shop Rat Education Program
Advance Turning & Manufacturing Inc joins Peak Manufacturing, Classic Turning and Howell High School in Hosting a Shop Rat Education Program at their facility.
Advance Turning & Manufacturing Inc.(ATM) specializes in precision machining for Aerospace, Marine and Medical Industries. ATM also partners and offers scholarships to the Jackson Area’s High ... more
Los Angeles Sets the Stage for Shop Rat's Unveiling of a National Competition
posted on March 18th, 2009
Jackson, MI March 15th, 2009 The Shop Rat Foundation, a Jackson Michigan nonprofit educational foundation will be unveiling its National Shop Rat Electric Wheelie Car Student Competition at the Westec 2009 at the Los Angeles Convention Center March 30 – April 2nd. “With exposure to thousands of students, educators and manufacturers the Westec 2009 is a perfect stage to unveil the competition”, said Chris Salow, Executive Director of the Shop Rat Foundation.
On April 2nd, ... more
Shop Rat Summer Camp at Camp McGregor
posted on February 26th, 2009
The Shop Rat Foundation is collaborating with the Jackson Area Manufacterers Assocaition's, Gateway Camp to bring the First Annual Shop Rat Summer Camp.
Students who have completed previous Gateway Camps or Machining U Camps will have a chance to participate in the Shop Rat Camp. This camp will be held at Camp McGregor in conjunction with the Gateway Camp June 22-26th, 8-4pm Monday-Friday.
Students will assemble a SHOPRAT Electric Wheelie Car, build fixtures, and experiment with ... more
Shop Rat Hosts Classes at Chelsea Schools
posted on February 19th, 2009
The Shop Rat Foundation has been invited to host a Shop Rat program for 4th-6th grade students during Chelsea School Districts annual “Super Saturdays”.
Super Saturday is a four-week program on Saturday mornings for kids from pre-school to 6th grade, giving them the opportunity to explore new interests and activities without a huge time or money commitment.
Students in this program will be building SHOP RAT Mousetrap Catapults along with other activities to stir ... more
Additional Shop Rat Programs being held this Spring
posted on January 28th, 2009
Along with the current Shop Rat Classes being held at Peak Manufacturing and Classic Turning, Advance Turning of Jackson Michigan, will be joining the team and will be providing Shop Rat Classes out of their facility this Spring.
The Shop Rat Foundation is accepting applications for students to enroll in classes at Advance Turning where students will be building wheelie cars to compete in the first annual Shop Rat Wheelie Car Competition in June. Students can ... more
Introducing the 2009 Shop Rat Summer Program
posted on January 28th, 2009
The Shop Rat Foundation is happy to announce that it will be holding its first official Shop Rat Summer Program this year.
Although dates, locations and projects are yet to be finalized, the foundation is very excited that they have been able to provide even more students with hands on education in a fun and thrilling way.
The 2009 Summer Program is in its planning stage and will be possible through a $10,000 grant provided by the ... more
1st Annual Shop Rat Wheelie Car Competition set for June 6th
posted on January 22nd, 2009
The Shop Rat Foundation is happy to announce the 1st Annual Shop Rat Wheelie Car Competition scheduled for June 6th at the Jackson Speedway.
Six teams will compete to become the champions of this new, unique and innovative competition. The Wheelie Car, the newest craziest Shop Rat project yet features zero turn steering, electric motors, and regeneration braking. Not to mention this bad boy pops crazy wheelies and spins so fast, you’ll think twice about trying ... more
A Special Thanks to our 2008 Supporters
posted on January 22nd, 2009
The Shop Rat Foundation would like to thank all the foundations, businesses and donors who contributed to Shop Rat Education Program. Our growth has only been made possible by the many who have supported us.
Here is a special thanks to the following 2008 supporters.
Sams Club/Walmart Foundation
Samuel Higby Camp Foundation
Jackson Community Foundation
Weatherwax Foundation
Haas Foundation
Robbie Curtis Charitable Foundation
Hurst Foundation
Comerica Chartable Foundation
Peak Manufacturing
SMW Manufacturing
C. Thorrez Industries
Bond & Company PLC
Advance Manufacturing
South Central Michigan Works
Eaton Corporation
Curtis & Curtis PC
Alro Steel ... more
The Shop Rat Foundation Receives a 10K grant from the SME Education Foundation
posted on January 10th, 2009
The Society of Manufacturing Engineers’ Education Foundation awarded the Shop Rat Foundation $10,000 to be used for Summer Shop Rat Educational Classes. This will be the first year in which the Shop Rat Foundation will be able to provide summer programming.
With the overwhelming number of student applications pouring into the offices of the Shop Rat Education Program the foundation is extremely thankful that it will be able to provide additional classes this summer.
The SME ... more
Shop Rat Receives a 12K grant from the Jackson Community Foundation
posted on December 23rd, 2008
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Amanda Proctor
The Shop Rat Foundation
517-769-2100
1/05/2008
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(JACKSON, Michigan)—“The Shop Rat Foundation has been awarded a grant of $12,000 by the Jackson County Community Foundation’s Community Needs Fund”, Amanda Proctor said today.
According to Ms. Proctor, the grant will be used to support the Shop Rat Education Program’s small projects such as solar powered cars, super capacitor dragsters, wind turbines and other projects for the students to ‘make and take home’. “Our organization has grown ... more
BREAKING NEWS
posted on November 12th, 2008
BREAKING NEWS
The Shop Rat Education Program is gaining interest across the country and has begun the process of a national program launch, national competition, and packaging ‘canned’ projects.
The Shop Rat Foundation will begin to unveil these ‘crazy’ projects 1st quarter of 2009. Most of these projects will be unique and never have been seen before and we are convinced that they will create a lot of excitement and interest.
We are currently working on a ... more
SME Education Foundation Endorses Shop Rat Foundation!
posted on October 31st, 2008
... more
08/09 Shop Rat Education Program Begins
posted on October 13th, 2008
The Shop Rat Foundation welcomes 60 students to the Shop Rat Education Program for the 08/09 School Year!
Shop Rat students attending the Pleasant Lake location have been in classes for three weeks, already building bottle rockets, catapults, and other fun cool projects. Students are excited to build a full size magic illusion set to saw kids in half and a rail car that runs off of compressed air.
Students attending the Jackson location (Classic Turning) are ... more
Shop Rat Southeast in Alabama Starting New Programs
posted on October 13th, 2008
CAR RESTORATION SHOP RAT PROGRAM
Shop Rat/Southeast has a unique educational project offering to their young Shop Rats. Under the guidance of Lee Hurley (Owner of HESCO and formerly pit crew chief of two different NASCAR teams) students will have the opportunity to restore a classic automobile at the Old Car Heaven Livery (a historic car center) in downtown Birmingham, Alabama.
Students will take the role of a car restoration specialist as ... more
Shop Rat Teacher Named one of Jackson's Top 30 Under 30
posted on September 12th, 2008
Colten Stepke, instructor for the Shop Rat Education Program was named one of Jackson Magazines' Top 30 under 30. As the youngest winner at age 19, Colten is truly a role model for the students of the program to look up to. Here is the article from the August 2008 Jackson Magazine issue:
Colton Stepke
Mill Operator - Classic Turning
Colton Stepke, 19, is the youngest of this year’s “30 Under 30” class, but he’s earned a spot ... more
Another Article Showing the Need For Skilled Workers
posted on August 29th, 2008
Skilled Trades Seek Workers
Contractors, Unions
Try Web, Schools;
A 'Dirty Jobs' Role
By ANTON TROIANOVSKI
(See Corrections and Amplifications item below.)
Even as the economy slumps and unemployment rises, strong demand for power plants, oil refineries and export goods has many manufacturers and construction contractors scrambling to find enough skilled workers to plug current and future holes.
With the shortage of welders, pipe fitters and other high-demand workers likely to get worse as more of them reach retirement age, ... more
Foundation receives $50,000 Grant From the Weatherwax Foundation
posted on August 29th, 2008
The Shop Rat Foundation has been awarded a $50,000 Grant from the Weatherwax Foundation! This is a matching grant so the Shop Rat Foundation is looking for local supporters within the community, particularly from local manufacturers to step up and help us reach our $50,000 goal. If you would like to help the Foundation and become a donor or sponsor please contact Amanda Proctor or Chris Salow at 517-769-2100 or shoprat@gmail.com.
The Weatherwax Foundation has taken ... more
The Shop Rat Education Program Welcomes its New Teacher!
posted on August 29th, 2008
The Shop Rat Foundation has found the perfect teacher for the Shop Rat Education Program.
Welcome to the Shop Rat Team Don O’Connor!
Don will be joining the Shop Rats team this year as our Classroom Instructor. Don comes to the Shop Rat Education with a wealth of experience in education. In almost 40 years of experience in skilled trades Don has worked as an Industrial Arts Instructor for schools in Michigan and Florida, a Technology ... more
Shop Rat Foundation is awarded a $4K grant from Jackson County Community Foundation
posted on July 28th, 2008
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Amanda Proctor
The Shop Rat Foundation
517-769-2100
7/30/2008
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(JACKSON, Michigan)—“The Shop Rat Foundation has been awarded a grant of $4000 by the Jackson County Community Foundation’s Community Needs Fund”, Amanda Proctor said today.
According to Ms. Proctor, the grant will be used to support the Shop Rat Education Program’s insurance. “Our organization has grown considerably in the last year. The Shop Rat Education Program has expanded and will be offering several more classes this fall. ... more
An Additional Shop Rat Location Starting This Fall
posted on June 18th, 2008
Scott Brockie of Classic Turning has opened his doors to the Shop Rat Education Program and the Jackson middle school students who will be attending the program.
Starting this fall, Classic Turning's 2500 West Argyle facility (Old Aeroquip Building)will be the second location in Jackson County to offer Shop Rat Classes to 6th, 7th and 8th grade students.
This new location will allow those students who could not commute to the Munith location a chance to ... more
Shop Rat Partners with the Jackson Area Career Center
posted on June 18th, 2008
The Jackson Area Career Center has asked the Shop Rat Education Program to join the current MTL(Manufacturing Technology Laboratory) and Gateway to Technology (Project Lead the Way) programs.
Currently the MTL and Gateway to Technology programs visit the middle schools within the Jackson School District and provide hands on 'labs' with the students. Here they use their hands and minds to learn about manufacturing technology and basic engineering principles through project based learning.
Shop Rat will ... more
Shop Rat Builds Hovercrafts with attendees of the Learning Fair
posted on June 17th, 2008
Shop Rat Builds Hovercraft's with attendees of the Learning Fair.
The Shop Rat Foundation is to provide a hands on project at the fifteenth annual Learning Fair--one of the area’s largest technology fairs the whole family will enjoy, July 10th and 11th.
The Learning Fair provides a unique, hands-on opportunity to explore technology and the arts--demonstrated by gifted craftsmen and dynamic companies from across Jackson County and Michigan!
The Shop Rat Foundation will be teaching children how to ... more
Shop Rat at Jackson County Rose Parade
posted on June 5th, 2008
Shop Rat Graduation Ceremony
posted on June 5th, 2008
New Study Shows Over 260K Skilled Michigan Jobs May Go Un-Filled
posted on May 20th, 2008
... more
The Hovercraft is Complete!
posted on May 15th, 2008
Our Hovercraft Project
The journey that our class has been on for the last 7 months has proven that when you take 15 students and let them use their hands and their minds’ they can build great things!
* Students not pictured: Anthony Hoard, Anthony Steenbeke, Cristian Arzate, Zak Mudge, Anthony Lilianthal, Colten Stepke (Teacher).
The Hovercraft Project started with a kit from Universal Hovercraft that only had the very necessary parts such as the ... more
JOB OPENING: Shoprat hiring full time teacher
posted on May 12th, 2008
The Shop Rat Foundation, a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization is looking for an applied Industrial Tech Instructor for their Shop Rat Education Program. This afterschool and weekend program involves instructing local middle school students and teaching them how to build creative projects. Instructors will be required to teach hands on skills, employability skills, teamwork and work ethic skills while building projects such as hovercrafts, ½ scale roadsters, basic utility vehicles and other exciting projects. ... more
The Wall Street Journal Proves Hands on Jobs are Hard To Fill
posted on May 8th, 2008
Many people and organizations are beginning to realize this shortage of skilled trade workers. In fact check out this article by the Wall Street Journal that shows seven of the top ten hardest to fill positions are hands on careers.
_________________________________________________
The Top 10 Hardest Jobs to Fill
Posted by Wendy Bounds
April 24th 2008
If this list is an indication, it’s pretty hard to find a good mechanic, carpenter, or someone to run the machines or do basic labor ... more
Shop Rat to be at MMA's CEO Forum
posted on May 2nd, 2008
The Shop Rat Foundation has been asked to bring our 2007/2009 Shop Rat Education Program Spotlight Project, a full size hovercraft to this years CEO Forum taking place May 13 at the Henry Center for Executive Development.
This hovercraft was just recently painted by Tripps Auto Body Shop and the students will be putting the craft back together during this weeks class to prepare for this event.
Pictures of the finished hovercraft are coming soon. ... more
Shop Rat to Present at MITES Convention
posted on May 2nd, 2008
The Shop Rat Foundation was asked to present at the 2008 Michigan Industrial and Technology Education Society (MITES) convention taking place on May 7th - 10th at the Lansing Center.
This convention was created to encourage and recognize fine craftsmanship in the field of
Industrial Technology, and Career Technical Education.
Students from Michigan will enter projects in twelve categories including: architectural drawing, electrical, graphic arts, machine shop, wood, applied technology, patternmaking, plastics, mechanical drawing, wrought metal, construction technology, ... more
Whats Really Happening During the 2007/2008 Shop Rat Education Program?
posted on April 29th, 2008
Whats Really Happening During the 2007/2008 Shop Rat Education Program?
Class One:
We began class with introductions of all the students and the teachers revealing a bit of information about why we were in the program and other personal information. Next we moved into a safety and behavior workshop. Once we were finished we completed a model Hovercraft HANDS ON PROJECT that taught the students how to construct a small model hovercraft made out ... more
Shop Rat In the Community
posted on April 25th, 2008
The Shop Rat Foundation has made several stops in the local community by supporting and participating in the local manufacturers and the local Career Center in open houses.
The Shop Rat Foundation is committed to supporting the local community to inspire the next generation to take interest in hands on careers and hobbies.
In March, Shop Rat was invited to be a part of the Jackson Area Career Centers Open House to create interest and increase ... more
Congratulations to Our Shop Rat Friends In Alabama
posted on April 22nd, 2008
Congratulations to our Shop Rat Friends in Alabama !
Brian Copes, an eighth grade teacher in Chelsea Alabama and leader of Shoprat/Southeast a 501 c in Alabama, has led his students to a first and second place victory at the 2008 Basic Utility Competition held in Indianapolis on April 18th.
The Chelsea Middle School students had built two vehicles - one a basic utility vehicle and the other a basic utility 'bus' like vehicle. ... more
Congratulations to Our Shop Rat Friends in Howell
posted on April 22nd, 2008
Laszlo Szalay, a teacher of the Howell High School's Machine Tool Program, and a good friend of the Shop Rat Organization donated a 1973 Honda CB 750 motor to create an award winning chopper with his team of students.
The "Reaper" is the custom chopper that led to recognition in the national competition called the Donnie Smith Chopper Class Challenge that was held in late March.
The class took home first place in innovation, structural design ... more
Shop Rat In Tech Directions Magazine
posted on April 14th, 2008
The Shop Rat Foundation was featured in the April 2008 Edition of Tech Directions, a trade journal for teachers and administrators of career/technical and technology vocational education.
Check out this editorial on page 2 :
http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/prakken/techdirections0408/ ... more
The Shop Rat Foundation Partners With SolidWorks Corporation
posted on February 11th, 2008
The Shop Rat Foundation is proud to announce its partnership with the SolidWorks Corporation. SolidWorks is the leader in 3D CAD technology, empowering product design teams with intuitive, high performance software that is easy to use, and provides the freedom to design products.
SolidWorks is providing every Shop Rat Education Program with the SolidWorks Education Edition Software. The SolidWorks Education Edition 2007 brings the latest in 3D CAD software, COSMOS Design Analysis software, and comprehensive courseware ... more
Shop Rats Story Aired on NPR
posted on November 9th, 2007
Grading Michigan Schools: Shop Rat Nation
Lester Graham
To listen to this radio spot please visit http://www.publicbroadcasting.net/michigan/news.newsmain?action=article&ARTICLE_ID=1180152§ionID=1 and click Listen.
ANN ARBOR, MI (2007-11-09) It's the first day of a weekend class at this machine shop near Pleasant Lake in south central Michigan. Advanced milling machines, programmable drills and other metal fabrication equipment line the walls in the brightly lit shop. The students are junior high-school age. They're hearing the dos and don'ts of working ... more
Shop Rat Donates Custom Wheelchair to Foote Hospital
posted on September 4th, 2007
The Shop Rat Foundation and three of the Shop Rat Education Program students, Billy Dunn, David Tracy and Derrick Miller donated two custom wheelchairs to Jackson's Foote Hospital Pediatric Ward.
The Shop Rat Students personally took the chairs to the ward and even took a couple of patients for a spin in the 'chopper' and 'police' wheelchair that the Shop Rat Education Program customized as a part of the Spring Program.
Check ... more
Congratulations to Mike Osterhaus!
posted on August 29th, 2007
It was Mike's lucky day on that scorching hot July day. His team, Melling Engine Parts, who had been trying to win the 24 Hour Race at the Jackson Speedway for five years, just won that race and as the Team Manager his excitement was overwhelming. Directly after the flags were waved the crowd was directed into the building where Christopher Salow would soon draw the name of the winner of the Shop Rat Custom ... more
Fall Classes Start September 15th
posted on August 23rd, 2007
Fall Classes will begin on September 15th, 2007. This first class will begin at 9am and will end at 12pm, Noon. We are hoping to have classes afterschool two nights a week but we will discuss with the parents and students what schedule will work best.
Students and volunteers, Please call 517-596-8000 to sign up!
The spotlight project for Fall's class is a full size, two seat, hovercraft.
We will also work on customized wheelchairs and other hands ... more
Manufacturers Day at the Races
posted on August 23rd, 2007
On August 18th 2007, the Shop Rat Foundation, Jackson Area Manufacturing Association and the Michigan Manufactures Association joined together and celebrated Michigan Manufacturing with the first annual "Manufacturers Day at the Races."
During the CARFAX 250 at the Michigan International Speedway, many gathered under and around the JAMA Hospitality tent and enjoyed the beautiful sunny August day. From beginning to end, from ... more
We are in the news!
posted on July 18th, 2007
Check out the recent blog regarding our exciting upcoming event:
http://blog.mlive.com/getting_in_your_business/ ... more
The Shop Rat Foundation awards Jack Roush with the 2007 Master Shop Rat of the Year Award at the August 18th NASCAR Busch Series CARFAX 250 Race
posted on July 13th, 2007
The Shop Rat Foundation, Michigan Manufactures Association (MMA) and the Jackson Area Association (JAMA) Manufacturing have teamed up to raise money for the Shop Rat Education Program with the "Manufacturers Day at the Races".
"This is not just a great networking opportunity for Michigan Manufacturers," said JAMA Executive Director Bill Rayl. "It's also an opportunity to celebrate the importance of manufacturing to Michigan's economy and to the world of performance racing. After all, there wouldn't be ... more
Shop Rat provides Hands on Project at the 2007 Spring Arbor Learning Fair
posted on June 15th, 2007
Shop Rat provides Hands on Project at the 2007 Spring Arbor Learning Fair
The Shop Rat Foundation is Partnering with Classic Turning to provide a hands on project at the fourteenth annual Learning Fair--one of the area’s largest technology fairs the whole family will enjoy, July 19th and 20th.
The Learning Fair provides a unique, hands-on opportunity to explore technology and the arts--demonstrated by gifted craftsmen and dynamic companies from across Jackson County and Michigan!
The ... more
Calling All Shop Rats
posted on June 14th, 2007
The Shop Rat Foundation would like to celebrate and give credit to Shop Rats and all their hard work that goes into their projects. Do you have a great project that you are working on that you would like to share with the rest of the Shop Rat Nation?
If so, send us your story and pictures to shoprat@gmail.com or send to 11500 M-106, Munith MI 49259
Each month we will showcase top Shop Rat Projects on ... more
Shop Rat Teaching Camp-goers How to Build Hovercrafts
posted on June 14th, 2007
Shop Rat Teaching Camp-goers How to Build Hovercrafts
Fourth, fifth and six graders attending the 2007 I can Make It Camp are in for a big treat during their July 9 – 13 stay. The Shop Rat Foundation is donating and teaching the students how to construct hovercrafts. These hovercrafts will be created from separate parts that attach and detach like building blocks to encourage experiments. Each hovercraft kit can be put together in numerous different ... more
Students Give Back to the Community with Customized Wheelchairs
posted on June 14th, 2007
Students Give Back to the Community with Customized Wheelchairs
The Shop Rat Students have been working on a great project that is teaching them a thing or two about giving back to the community. The Shop Rat Foundation is working with Jackson’s Foote Hospital in customizing pediatric wheelchairs and adding the ‘cool’ factor to them so that the children in the hospital enjoy using them. With a police car and a motorcycle choppers as the ... more
The Shop Rat Foundation receives the Michigan Manufacturers’ Association “Special Achievement” Award
posted on June 14th, 2007
The Shop Rat Foundation receives the Michigan Manufacturers’ Association “Special Achievement” Award
May 8th, 2007 turned out to be a very exciting day for the Shop Rat Foundation. At the Michigan Manufacturers’ Association’s CEO Forum the Shop Rat Foundation was presented with a Special Achievement award for exemplary efforts in education and community development. This ceremony was created 25 years ago to recognize Michigan Manufacturers’ positive contributions to the industry and local communities. This year’s event ... more
Getting a Chopper Education
posted on June 13th, 2007
Check out this article about our Shop Rat Friends in Alabama and the Wheels of Thunder Event. Copy the following link and paste it in your address bar to read the article!
http://www.shelbycountyreporter.com/articles/2007/06/13/lifestyles/life04.txt ... more
Shop Rat at Jackson Wheels of Thunder
posted on June 12th, 2007
Shop Rat at Jackson Wheels of Thunder
The 2007 Jackson Wheels of Thunder turned out to be a fantastic event that celebrated the art of motorcycles. The key to this event is that it did not only celebrate motorcycles, but that it brought together families from all around to enjoy coney dog contests, stunt shows, and the Shop Rat Foundation Bike Build off. The students from the Shop Rat Program in Munith, Michigan and the Shop ... more
Shop Rat Foundation goes back to basics
posted on May 11th, 2007
Attention all Shop Rats! The Shop Rat Foundation was featured on ABC 12 of Flint, MI. Please click copy the link below and paste it to the address bar to read and watch the story!
http://abclocal.go.com/wjrt/story?section=local&id=5267885 ... more
Check out this article from the New York Times...
posted on April 16th, 2007
A Great Year for Ivy League Schools, but Not So Good for Applicants to Them
April 04, 2007
Source: New York Times
SAM DILLON
Harvard turned down 1,100 student applicants with perfect 800 scores on the SAT math exam. Yale rejected several applicants with perfect 2400 scores on the three-part SAT, and Princeton turned away thousands of high school applicants with 4.0 grade point averages. Needless to say, high school valedictorians were a dime a dozen.
It was ... more
ShopRat.Org
posted on April 16th, 2007
ShopRat.Org
A Grassroots Movement Empowering Tomorrows Engineers and Techies
Douglas C. Acheson, Chris Salow
Purdue Engineering and Technology at IUPUI, Shop Rat Associates LLC
Presented at the 2007 American Society for Engineering Education- Illinios/Indiana Section Conference
Abstract
Educators of tomorrow’s engineering and technology workforce are continually looking for ways to recruit a student population that can adequately grasp and apply the concepts being taught in higher education. Here in the United States, academia has for the last decade or so ... more
Shop Rat Encourged to Pursue Manufacturing Careers
posted on March 30th, 2007
Shop Rats Encouraged to Pursue Manufacturing Careers
A revolution is taking place in Jackson, Michigan and is spreading across the state. Kids are being taught that it’s “cool” to get their hands dirty making things.
Founder Chris Salow, formed the Shop Rat Foundation in 2004 to bring honor and respect to the millions of “shop rats” — skilled tradespeople — who helped build this country and tocreate an education program for future shop rats. The ... more
The Good, The Bad, The Ugly: The Shop Rat Story
posted on February 8th, 2007
The Good, The Bad, The Ugly
The Shop Rat Story
The Ugly: In the past the term “Shop Rat” was used by some as a negative, disrespectful and degrading description of some of the most valuable people in our society. We now realize that the opposite is true. Shop Rats are the backbone of our lives and provide us with unbelievable comforts that we take for granted every day. They are the unsung ... more
Shop Rat Associates Donates Customized Motorcycle To SLD Learning Center
posted on February 2nd, 2007
Specialized Language Development (SLD) Learning Center is proud to announce a phenomenal donation of a customized motorcycle valued at $75,000.00 built by young Shop Rats! This is the first of three motorcycles to be built by the students and donated to a charity. $50 Raffle tickets will be sold through June of 2007.To purchase tickets, go to www.sldcenter.org. Proceeds will go to the SLD Learning Center. To see the chopper, go to our pictures page ... more
Shop Rat Education
posted on January 28th, 2007
Our Shop Rat Winter classes started up again last week. We had a great group of young Shop Rats who went through the Fall session and are back for more! They continue their work on various skills that they then apply to the motorcycle chopper they are building. This chopper will be used in a "build off" at the 2007 Wheels of Thunder held this summer in Jackson. This will truly be a great competition ... more
Shop Rat On The Air
posted on January 28th, 2007
Attention all Shop Rats. Shop Rat was highlighted on the National Association of Manufacturing's radio show, "America's Business with Mike Hambrick". Copy and paste this link to hear the March 10, 2007 broadcast. http://www.webcastgroup.com/webcast/window_new/frameset.asp?WebcastID=3222&n=&e2=&c=&nf=&nl=&r=&i= ... more
Shop Rats On The Move
posted on January 28th, 2007
Shop Rat will be seen and heard at several Michigan shows over the next couple of months. Shop Rat will be predominantly featured and will be spreading the word.
**January 25 – 28 RV Show at the Ford Field House in Detroit**
In addition to spreading the word about Shop Rat, we will be introducing several new Shop Rat merchandise items, promoting our three membership opportunities, displaying our custom OCC Chopper with special Shop Rat designed ... more
SHOP RAT FOUNDATION DONATES CUSTOMIZED MOTORCYCLE
posted on January 24th, 2007
SHOP RAT FOUNDATION DONATES CUSTOMIZED MOTORCYCLE
TO SLD LEARNING CENTER
Customized Motorcycle to be Presented at the International Auto Show in Grand Rapids!
Jackson, Michigan – The Shop Rat Foundation is proud to announce a phenomenal donation to the Specialized Language Development (SLD) Learning Center of a customized motorcycle valued at $75,000.00 built by young Shop Rats in grades 7th – 12th. SLD will be selling $50 Raffle tickets through June of 2007. Proceeds will go ... more
Shop Rat Plans to Bring "Cool" Factor to Education at Armory Arts Project
posted on December 19th, 2006
This Thursday, October 26th, Shop Rat Associates will share its vision for involvement in the Creative Industries aspect of the Armory Arts Project at a reception to be held at ART 634 located at 634 N. Mechanic St. The reception will be hosted by The Jackson Area Manufacturers Association (JAMA), the Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce, and The Enterprise Group of Jackson. Comerica Bank is sponsoring the event.
Neeta Delaney, Director of the Armory Arts Project, ... more
Bobby Allison ~ Shop Rat #12
posted on November 19th, 2006
Bobby Allison has become a Shop Rat Founding Member, choosing his favorite #12 as his membership number.
Allison first learned about a new association called Shop Rat in July at MIS while in town to be inducted into the Jackson RaceWeek Walk of Fame. He was so impressed by the concept that he asked founder, Chris Salow, to not only be a Founding Member, but to become one of the Association's spokespersons.
This elite membership will only ... more
Introducing The Shop Rat Founders Club
posted on November 18th, 2006
Shop Rat Associates announced today the introduction of the Shop Rat Founders Club. This elite membership will only have 1,913 members.
"The number 1,913 is significant because this represents the year Henry Ford (the ultimate Shop Rat) introduced the first "automated" assembly line, revolutionizing the industrial world", stated Chris Salow the founder of Shop Rat.
"Our goal is to build a community of young Shop Rats who will excel in challenging careers dedicated to creative and innovative ... more
Shop Rat Motorcycle Buildoff - The Jackson Wheels Of Thunder—2007
posted on October 28th, 2006
Chris Salow, founder of Shop Rat, and Joe Michner, Chairman of The Jackson Wheels of Thunder, announced today there will be a motorcycle 'build off' during the June 8-9, 2007 Wheels of Thunder event in downtown Jackson. The motorcycles will be built by young Shop Rats in Michigan and Alabama for a good ol' North South competition! ... more
Shop Rats Will Lead The Race For Charity!
posted on October 28th, 2006
The Jackson Race For Charity Presented by Shop Rat Associates is a unique event where local non-profits will join together and unite through various fundraising efforts. The race itself will be held at Jackson Speedway during the summer of 2007. Up to 24 identically prepared go-karts will be entered by various non-profits from the greater Jackson area. Shop Rat will design, build and donate a one-of-a-kind Shop Rat Chopper for the 2007 Race For Charity. ... more
Shop Rat Plans to Bring "Cool" Factor to Education at Armory Arts Project
posted on October 26th, 2006
Jackson, Michigan—This Thursday, October 26th, Shop Rat Associates will share its vision for involvement in the Creative Industries aspect of the Armory Arts Project at a reception to be held at ART 634 located at 634 N. Mechanic St. The reception will be hosted by The Jackson Area Manufacturers Association (JAMA), the Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce, and The Enterprise Group of Jackson. Comerica Bank is sponsoring the event.
Neeta Delaney, Director of the Armory Arts ... more
