As reported in the Lighthouse, Lyndhurst High School’s Student Newspaper, Lyndhurst students recently got a firsthand look at a powerful alternative to the traditional college path through a new field trip series. On March 20, 2025, five seniors visited Hudson Toyota in Jersey City and Penske Truck Leasing in Linden to explore the International Association of Machinists (IAM) apprenticeship program—a hands-on opportunity that’s changing how students think about life after graduation.
The IAM program blends paid, on-the-job training with classroom instruction at Passaic County Community College. For students, this means no tuition, real-world experience, and a direct path into a skilled trade—all while earning a paycheck. “You don’t have to pay, and they pay you to work, and they teach you as well,” said senior Dakota Smith, clearly impressed by the opportunity. Fellow student Jesus Mota, who’s passionate about cars, said the experience made him even more determined to become a mechanic and eventually open his own shop.
By exposing students to union-backed programs like IAMs, Lyndhurst High is helping them discover career paths that offer both stability and growth. It’s a reminder that college isn’t the only road to success—especially when apprenticeships can offer a head start.
PHOTO BY MS. TRUNCELLITO: Penske employee Rick Schubert (left) talks to seniors Josiah Jimenez, Dakota Smith, David Roman, Jesus Mota and Elija Nunez (left to right) at a station in a workshop at Penske Truck Leasing in Linden during a field trip on March 20.
