On Friday, April 4, sixty students from LMS visited McKay NAPA Auto Parts Headquarters to take part in the Drive into STEM: Saltwater Car Challenge Pilot Program, created by NAPA Auto Parts in partnership with Central Creativity. This exclusive pilot was launched in only four schools across the country—and Litchfield was proud to be selected as one of them!
The Drive into STEM Pilot Program is part of NAPA's ongoing mission to inspire and educate the next generation of automotive innovators and future NAPA professionals. During the event, students worked through every step of building their own saltwater-powered mini cars. They ensured proper alignment of axles, wheels, gears, and motors, and assembled the saltwater fuel cells correctly. When their vehicles didn’t operate as expected, students were challenged to troubleshoot and problem-solve in real time.
They also provided valuable feedback on the activity, car design, and ideas for improvement. This feedback will be shared directly with NAPA to help shape the future development and expansion of the Drive into STEM program.
The day wrapped up with a tour of McKay NAPA Auto Parts Headquarters. Special thanks to Earl Flack, Matt McKay, and Alex Cullison for organizing the day—and for making sure the students were well fed! It was a fantastic day filled with hands-on learning and career exploration.
