Driving toward success: Addison Trail senior accepted into Department of Automotive Technology at SIU

Pictured is Addison Trail senior Javier Castillo, who was recently accepted into the Department of Automotive Technology at Southern Illinois University.

When Addison Trail senior Javier Castillo was about 10 years old, he started helping his dad and a family friend work on cars.

He never could have imagined that a childhood hobby would grow into a lifelong passion, as he was recently accepted into the Department of Automotive Technology at Southern Illinois University.

“I was pretty shocked and excited,” Castillo said about being admitted into the program. “It’s another door that’s going to further allow me to achieve my best. The automotive industry is just intriguing to me. I love working hands-on and finding out how everything works with something we use every day.”

Castillo said he was inspired to apply to Southern Illinois University by Addison Trail Career and Technical Education (CTE) teacher Keith Santini.

“Without Addison Trail and Mr. Santini, I wouldn’t have the certifications and knowledge I have today,” Castillo said. “It has opened up a whole world for me and has provided opportunities to compete in a variety of auto events such as SkillsUSA and Universal Technical Institute (UTI)’s High School Top Tech Challenge.”

Castillo has earned the following certifications so far:

  • Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Refrigerant Recovery and Recycling Program (individuals who successfully complete this EPA-authorized Section 609 program are certified to service motor vehicle air conditioning systems)
  • Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Heating and Air Conditioning
  • Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Electrical/Electronic Systems
  • Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Engine Repair
  • Bendix Air Brake
  • Pro-Cut Brake
  • Working to complete a Mercedes-Benz certification

Castillo hopes to work for General Motors in the future, and he shared some advice for other high school students interested in this profession.

“Follow a career you actually want to pursue,” he said. “If you land your dream job, you’ll never work a day in your life.”