University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez engineering students gained hands-on exposure to automotive technology, motorsports safety and career opportunities during an educational experience at the Salinas track.
San Juan- Porsche Center Puerto Rico welcomed engineering students from the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez and members of the Racing Engineers team for an educational experience designed to bridge academic knowledge with real-world applications in the automotive industry.
The students attended a Driver’s Education event at the Salinas track organized by the Porsche Club of America, Puerto Rico Region, where they gained firsthand exposure to the technical, professional and safety aspects of motorsports while interacting with certified technicians, engineers and instructors.
The initiative sought to complement the students’ academic preparation by exposing them to different areas of the automotive sector and providing opportunities to engage with professionals whose careers combine engineering, technology and motorsports.
As part of the program, Orlando Pérez, Sales Manager at Porsche Center Puerto Rico, welcomed the students and emphasized the importance of expanding their knowledge through experiences beyond the classroom.
Pérez also reiterated Porsche Center Puerto Rico’s commitment to serving as a resource for students interested in learning more about engineering, automotive technology and the systems behind Porsche vehicles.
The students later participated in a technical orientation led by Chris Hernández, a certified technician at Porsche Center Puerto Rico, who introduced them to a Porsche vehicle and discussed the services offered by the dealership. Students were able to explore the vehicle, learn about some of its capabilities and speak with Hernández about his professional journey and career development within Porsche’s technical operations.
Through their interaction with the Porsche Club of America, Puerto Rico Region, participants also learned how a Driver’s Education event operates. The orientation covered track safety protocols, driving procedures, flag meanings and other standards that govern activities on the circuit.
Following the safety briefing, students experienced the track through hot laps conducted under established safety protocols, including the required protective equipment and helmets.
A key component of the event was the interaction between students and Porsche Club of America members, several of whom have professional backgrounds in engineering. These conversations gave participants a practical perspective on how engineering expertise can translate into careers and opportunities within the automotive and motorsports industries.
Certified Porsche Club of America instructors, who volunteer their time and expertise, also shared their knowledge and experiences with the students, strengthening the educational component of the event.
“We want students to see that what they learn in the classroom has multiple applications in the professional world. Exposing them to technicians, engineers and other industry professionals allows them to broaden their perspective and visualize the different opportunities available within the automotive sector. Our door is open to guide them and share knowledge whenever they need it,” Pérez said.
For Porsche Center Puerto Rico, initiatives such as this provide an opportunity to introduce future professionals to an industry that continues to evolve through technology and innovation while demonstrating how academic knowledge can be applied in real-world environments.
The experience allowed students to connect concepts from their engineering education with practical scenarios, explore different career paths and engage with professionals who share their interest in engineering and motorsports.
Through educational initiatives like this one, Porsche Center Puerto Rico continues to promote knowledge-sharing and create opportunities for emerging professionals to gain greater exposure to the technology, engineering and career possibilities shaping the automotive industry.
