ACE in Action
See ACE in action through our students’ off-campus learning experiences
Spring Mountain Motorsports Park
Pahramp, Nevada
Our students travel across the country to different tracks, but Spring Mountain will forever stand out for its exceptional hospitality. Courtney and Mikey went above and beyond to welcome our students, offering private tours and exclusive access to Nighthawk Tower, where they had an unparalleled view of the race. Jason at the tower was incredibly engaging; interacting with the students and discussing the meaning behind different racing flags helped the students understand the importance of clear communication and split-second decision-making in motorsports.
Beyond the track action, students had the incredible opportunity to meet Michelle Abbate, a talented female driver sponsored by Ghost. They also connected with Lyndell Kirkes of LK Method, one of our program sponsors, reinforcing the real-world connections that make ACE such a transformative experience. Through teamwork, resilience, and direct engagement with industry professionals, students saw firsthand that middle schoolers can thrive in a world typically reserved for older students.
At Spring Mountain Motorsports Park, ACE students experienced the full spectrum of race-day challenges, from pit work to unexpected mechanical setbacks. Serving as pit crew, they assisted with tire changes, fueling, and real-time troubleshooting, gaining firsthand exposure to the problem-solving and adaptability required in motorsports. Dana took the wheel, putting in strong laps, but mechanical issues arose, providing a valuable learning moment- demonstrating that in racing, as in life, things don’t always go as planned.
Barber Motorsports Park
Leeds, Alabama
Our ACE students spent a weekend at Barber Motorsports Park experiencing how a real motorsports team works. With Jared as crew chief and support from Patrick, Haylee, Chris, Christy, and Dana, the students moved through the paddock, learned how teams communicate, and watched how timing, tools, and quick decisions support a driver on track.
They also explored the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, connecting engineering and design history to what they were seeing in real time at the track. A highlight of the trip was a private tour of the museum’s design studio, where Pierre showed the students sketches, prototypes, and explained how AI is becoming an essential tool for creatives, designers, and engineers. It helped them understand how modern technology and hands-on craftsmanship work together.