The Boy Scouts of America visited Brookdale Community College’s Automotive Technology program this week to earn their Automotive Maintenance Merit Badge. Under the guidance of Brookdale instructors Ivan Anderson and George Poosikian, scouts explored the fundamentals of car ownership, safety, and upkeep in an interactive, hands-on session.
Anderson began the program with something most car owners often overlook—the owner’s manual. Page by page, he walked scouts through topics ranging from automatic keyless entry to safety features, warning lights, and maintenance schedules. “There’s so much valuable information hidden in these manuals,” Anderson explained. “Whether it’s reprogramming a key fob, understanding dashboard indicators, or learning when to change fluids, everything you need to keep your car safe and reliable is in here.”
The scouts also learned about safe jump-starting procedures, the importance of matching oil types to engine needs, and how to recognize key vehicle components. Anderson kept the lessons lively with real-world examples—including his own experience discovering a hidden fireplace control in his house after 25 years. “Sometimes the answers are right in front of us,” he said. “It’s the same with cars—you just need to know where to look.”
After working through the manual, Anderson treated the scouts to a close-up look at his Chevrolet Corvette, walking them around the car to connect what they had just studied to the reality of modern automotive engineering. The demonstration sparked questions and plenty of enthusiasm from the scouts.
For the scouts, the badge is more than just a symbol—it’s a valuable life skill. Troop leaders emphasized how impactful programs like this are for young people. “This badge is all about everyday maintenance—changing a tire, checking air pressure, understanding filters and fluids,” one leader explained. “It’s knowledge every driver should have. Opportunities like this give the boys and girls real confidence for the future.”
The event was part of Trades Week, where Scouts from across Monmouth County rotated through sessions in welding, plumbing, fire safety, and automotive technology. For many, the automotive session was the highlight. “This is the one they talk about the most,” another leader shared. “The chance to learn from experts at Brookdale—and even see a Corvette up close—makes the experience unforgettable.”
By the end of the day, scouts left with not only credit toward their merit badge, but also practical knowledge and a deeper appreciation for the importance of vehicle safety and maintenance.