Kyle Neely graduated Magna Cum Laude in May 2007 with a degree in Automotive Collision Repair (ACR)

Kyle Neely graduated Magna Cum Laude in May 2007 with a degree in Automotive Collision Repair (ACR). He is employed as a Technician by Schaefer Autobody Centers. Kristen Henry, a Sales & Marketing Lead at Schaefer, is impressed by his skills and willingness to help peers. “[Kyle] is a pillar of Schaefer Autobody Centers and we are proud he joined our team in 2008. Ranken produces high caliber technicians and we look forward to continuing to hire Ranken graduates.”

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Kyle Neely has made a major impact on social media. As the host of YouTube channel BlueCollarKyle, he provides a look behind the scenes of collision repair. Kyle produces step-by-step videos of various projects while providing valuable tips to industry professionals and laypersons alike. The channel has produced over 750 videos with a cumulative total of over 4.5 million views! BlueCollarKyle also has a strong presence on Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and Tik Tok. Kyle is a true ambassador for a field that employs 180,000 repair specialists across the nation.

Kyle gives Ranken props for his success, telling us “I knew I was going to work on cars from a young age. Ranken was able to dial in my knowledge and skills to the point that I could start my career with confidence. I appreciate the networking and connections I made while at Ranken. Some of those connections are part of the reason I’m where I am now.”

ACR Department Chair and faculty member John Helterbrand recalls how impressed he was with his former student. “Kyle was different, he wanted to bring attention to his industry. He was involved in the earliest days of social media, even writing code for Myspace.” John appreciates that Kyle is still engaged with Ranken, such as sitting on an Advisory Board. “Our industry wants to hear what he has to say. I’ve seen high school students, and teachers, who want his autograph or a selfie with him. Through it all, Kyle has stayed true to himself. He was and is a well-grounded young man, looking to help any way he can . . . celebrity does not go to his head!”

Learn more at https://ranken.edu/find-your-career-path/
www.youtube.com/channel/UCVL5dT9figJYVNh5NhCGqZA
https://www.schaeferautobody.com/

Comments

John Russell received his 2006 Universal HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) Certification

To address the growing need for a skilled technical workforce, Ranken Technical College offers a variety of seminars designed to help technicians stay up to date on the latest skills and technology in their industry and refine their skills. These seminar programs are specially designed to meet the needs of tradesmen who want to advance their career or make a career change. John Russell received his 2006 Universal HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) Certification through Ranken’s Advanced and Continuing Education Division. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires this certification for all HVAC technicians working with the refrigerants found in many types of HVAC/R units. John is currently the Lead Maintenance Technician for UE Management, servicing dozens of multi-family properties in St. Louis. He has spent the last 32 years working in property maintenance. Supervisor, Alex Rodriguez, Property Manager for UE Management, explains “John has been a tremendous ...

As President and CEO of R&S Machining, Inc, Thomas Roderick’s unparalleled determination and work ethic has made R&S Machining a leader in the aerospace industry, specializing in 4 & 5 axis aerospace components

As President and CEO of R&S Machining, Inc, Thomas Roderick’s unparalleled determination and work ethic has made R&S Machining a leader in the aerospace industry, specializing in 4 & 5 axis aerospace components. Tom graduated Summa Cum Laude with a certification in Machine Shop in 1987 and later taught the Precision Machining program at Ranken Technical College from fall of 1989 to 1994. Tom tells us, “Ranken taught me that you can do whatever you put your mind to. Problem solving skills instilled a work ethic giving me the confidence to preserver in the face of adversity. It has allowed me to provide for my family in ways I never would have imagined.” After serving a two-year apprenticeship in a job shop, Tom took a position with McDonnell Douglas, headquartered at St. Louis Lambert International Airport. During his ten years at McDonnell Douglas, Tom developed a very strong passion for aerospace manufacturing and a spirited enthusiasm for bettering the business. R...

Ermin Velagic graduated in 2020 with an Associate Degree in Network and Database Administration

Ermin Velagic graduated in 2020 with an Associate Degree in Network and Database Administration. He immediately took a position with TekSystems. Last winter, Ermin joined IMPACT Strategies, a full-service commercial builder as a Computer Support Specialist. Ermin tells us his parents emigrated to the United States “seeking a better life,” making him a first-generation college graduate. His academic journey faced serious challenges. Ermin and his fiancé both worked full-time while he attended classes at Ranken to build a more secure future. While juggling this schedule, he distinctly remembers the support he received from Ranken IT faculty member Ashley Reddick, who spent many hours before and after class mentoring and motivating him to pass demanding certification exams. In a personal letter to Mr. Reddick, Ermin’s emotions were clear, “[You] created a never-forgetting impact I will carry with my heart and soul heavily for as long as I will be able to remember it.” Mr. Reddick says, ...

Ranken Technical College

Search This Blog