Shoshoni High Expands Vocational Offerings with Innovative Approach

School utilizes non-teaching professionals to deliver hands-on auto and CDL training to students

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Shoshoni High School in Wyoming has expanded its vocational education program by thinking outside the box. Using grants and non-teaching professionals like the transportation director and school resource officers, the school now offers students hands-on classes in auto repair, restoration, and commercial driver's license (CDL) training. Students work on donated vehicles and get real-world experience, with the goal of preparing them for future careers in automotive, trucking, and engineering.

Why it matters

In a time when many schools are cutting back on vocational programs, Shoshoni High is bucking the trend and providing students with valuable technical skills and career preparation. The innovative approach allows the school to offer a wider range of vocational courses without relying solely on traditional teaching staff, making the program more sustainable long-term.

The details

The auto repair and restoration classes are held at the district's bus barn, where students work on donated vehicles, learning everything from mechanical repairs to bodywork and painting. They also have access to professional-grade tools and equipment, including a newly assembled paint booth. Meanwhile, the CDL training class is led by the school superintendent, who prepares students to take the commercial driver's license exam. The vocational program is proving popular with senior boys who want to pursue careers in automotive, trucking, or engineering.

  • Shoshoni High School started the innovative vocational program in 2023.
  • The auto restoration class is an ongoing annual project, with a new donated vehicle each year.

The players

James Gardner

The Fremont County School District 24 Transportation Director, who teaches the auto repair and restoration classes.

Brandon Doyle

A mechanic who assists with the auto repair and restoration classes.

Bruce Thoren

The superintendent of Fremont County School District 24, who teaches the CDL training class.

Trindan Rogers

A senior student who is enrolled in the auto restoration class, planning to use his skills on the family farm.

Peyton Rogers

Trindan's twin brother, also a senior student in the auto restoration class with a passion for working on trucks.

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What they’re saying

“It gets me out of English class. I get to work on trucks. It's a hobby of mine.”

— Trindan Rogers, Senior student (county10.com)

“I get to work on trucks, it's something I like to do.”

— Peyton Rogers, Senior student (county10.com)

“Hopefully, we can get them started. We have to keep things separate. The transportation department costs are fully refundable by the state. The class is not.”

— James Gardner, Fremont County School District 24 Transportation Director (county10.com)

What’s next

The school plans to continue expanding the vocational program, with the goal of providing even more hands-on learning opportunities for students interested in technical careers.

The takeaway

Shoshoni High's innovative approach to vocational education demonstrates how schools can think creatively to offer students valuable real-world skills and career preparation, even with limited resources. The program's success highlights the potential for similar initiatives to thrive in other communities.