From High School Shop To Texas Motor Speedway: Students, Skills, And A Big Win
About this episode
Henry Silva, an automotive instructor at Klein Cain High School, shares insights about his students' recent victory at the HADA student technical competition. Joined by three students, they discuss their aspirations in the automotive field, ranging from mechanical engineering to diesel technology. The episode highlights the importance of hands-on experience and the support from local sponsors like Parkway Chevrolet. The conversation also touches on the upcoming state competition at Texas Motor Speedway, where students will apply their skills in a real-world setting, showcasing their knowledge and teamwork.
A high school shop can change a life, and today you’ll hear how three Klein Kane students turned four years of training into a first-place finish and a ticket to Texas Motor Speedway. We sit down with instructor Henry Silva and his team to unpack what it really takes to win a professional-grade student technical competition: mentorship from a master tech, interview practice with industry pros, and a three-hour, bugged-vehicle challenge that demands composure and clean diagnostics under pressure.
Their roadmap goes far beyond a single trophy. From oscilloscopes and advanced scan tools to customer storytelling and repair documentation, the students show how modern automotive programs blend technology, communication, and hands-on skill. You’ll hear concrete next steps: diesel careers, mechanical engineering at Purdue, dealership roles, and race-team ambitions. We also dig into how inclusivity strengthens the pipeline, with dozens of young women entering the program and several already eyeing dealership positions. Scholarships flow through these events, turning hard-won skills into funded opportunities at trade schools, two-year programs, and four-year universities.
We round things out with a grounded review of the 2025 Infiniti QX60 Sport AWD. Expect a smooth ride, upscale interior, and clever headrest speakers, along with a surprising 6,000-pound tow rating. We also call out the tradeoffs: a tight third row, conservative rear styling, and moments of noticeable turbo lag paired with a 9-speed automatic. If you’re cross-shopping Acura MDX, Genesis GV80, or Lincoln Aviator, you’ll get clear, practical guidance on where the QX60 shines and where it trails the pack.
If stories like these inspire you, follow and share the show with a friend who loves cars, students, or both. Subscribe, leave a quick review, and tell us: which path would you choose—diesel tech, engineering, or the pit lane?
Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!
The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas
Gulf Coast Auto Shield
Paint protection, tint, and more!
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
---- -----
Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time?
In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy!
Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.
----- -----
Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.
In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:
Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.
Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!
Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTime
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/
https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltime
https://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTime
For more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at
[email protected]
Infiniti QX60
"Later, Jeff has this week's Motor Minute. And I get a review of the Infinity QX-60 on the In-Wheel Time Car Talk Show. Howdy. Along with Mike out of this World Mars, we always need more."
The Infiniti QX60 is a fancy SUV that has lots of room for people and their stuff. It's known for being comfortable and having cool technology, which makes it a good choice for families or anyone who wants a nice ride.
The Infiniti QX60 is a luxury midsize SUV that combines comfort, technology, and versatility for families and individuals alike. Known for its spacious interior and advanced safety features, it has become a popular choice among luxury SUV buyers. Its significance lies in its balance of performance and luxury, making it a strong contender in its segment.
General Motors
"But I did get a free chance to go to General Motors Tech School"
General Motors is a big company that makes cars and trucks. They own several popular car brands like Chevrolet and Cadillac.
General Motors (GM) is a major American automotive corporation that owns several brands, including Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, and Cadillac.
NASCAR
"...They can get into NASCAR, NHRA. So their doors are wide open, I believe."
NASCAR is a type of car racing that takes place on circular tracks. It's very popular in the U.S., and the cars used are specially built for racing.
NASCAR, or the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, is a popular motorsport organization known for its stock car racing events, particularly in the United States. It features a series of races on oval tracks and has a large following.
NHRA
"...They can get into NASCAR, NHRA. So their doors are wide open, I believe."
NHRA is a group that organizes drag racing events, where cars race straight down a track for a short distance. It's a different style of racing compared to NASCAR.
The NHRA, or National Hot Rod Association, is the largest drag racing sanctioning body in the world. It organizes events where cars race in a straight line over a short distance, typically a quarter-mile.
oscilloscope
"Cover diagnostic events, diagnostics, we use oscilloscopes."
An oscilloscope is a tool that shows how electrical signals change over time. In car repair, it's used to check if parts are working correctly by looking at their electrical signals.
An oscilloscope is a device used to measure and display electrical signals. In automotive diagnostics, it helps technicians analyze the performance of various components by visualizing electrical waveforms, which is crucial for troubleshooting issues.
scanners
"we know we're using scanners. We have all types of scanners that are available to us."
Scanners are tools that mechanics use to check cars for problems. They connect to the car's computer to find out if there are any issues that need fixing.
In automotive contexts, scanners refer to diagnostic tools that connect to a vehicle's onboard computer system. They retrieve trouble codes and data that help technicians diagnose issues with the vehicle's performance and systems.
computer systems
"and we get into the computer systems of the vehicles so we could diagnose them. As you know, nowadays cars have many, many modules, 50, 600 modules sometimes, and they have to know computers."
Computer systems in cars are like the brains that help control everything from the engine to the radio. They help the car run smoothly and can tell mechanics if something is wrong.
Computer systems in vehicles refer to the various electronic modules that control different functions of the car, such as engine management, safety features, and infotainment systems. These systems are crucial for modern vehicle performance and diagnostics.
modules
"As you know, nowadays cars have many, many modules, 50, 600 modules sometimes, and they have to know computers. So it's high technology there."
Modules are small computer parts in cars that manage different jobs, like controlling the engine or safety systems. They work together to help the car function properly.
Modules in automotive terms refer to individual electronic units that perform specific functions within a vehicle's computer system. Each module can control different aspects like the engine, transmission, or safety features.
Chevrolet Corvette
"Maybe you could detune my Corvette to one. I was going to say, I could use some help myself."
The Corvette is a fast sports car made by Chevrolet. It's famous for being powerful and stylish, making it a favorite among car lovers.
The Chevrolet Corvette is a high-performance sports car known for its powerful engines and sleek design. It's a popular choice among car enthusiasts for its performance and iconic status.
detune
"Don wanted y'all to detune his Corvette. Yeah, not detail it. Detune. You need to detune it."
Detuning means making a car less powerful. This can involve changing how the engine works so it doesn't go as fast or produce as much power, often for safety or legal reasons.
Detuning a car refers to the process of reducing its performance, typically by adjusting the engine's tuning or modifying components to lower horsepower or torque. This can be done for various reasons, such as improving reliability or meeting specific regulations.
Texas Motor Speedway
"...we're at the Texas Motor Speedway. So for anyone out there who's never been there, you have to go."
Texas Motor Speedway is a big racetrack in Texas where many car races happen. It's a popular place for fans to watch exciting racing events.
Texas Motor Speedway is a major motorsports facility located in Fort Worth, Texas. It hosts various racing events, including NASCAR and IndyCar races, and is known for its large seating capacity and modern amenities.
Chevrolet Silverado
"...we're going to have a Chevrolet Silverado that they've been working on here at Parkway Chevrolet 2025, I believe."
The Chevrolet Silverado is a large truck that can be used for carrying heavy loads or towing. The 2025 version is the latest model, which likely has new features and improvements.
The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup truck known for its durability and versatility, often used for both work and personal purposes. The 2025 model year may feature updated technology and design enhancements.
WRX
"I drive a 2021 WRX."
The WRX is a sporty car made by Subaru that is great for fast driving and has good control in different weather conditions.
The Subaru WRX is a high-performance sports sedan known for its all-wheel drive, turbocharged engine, and rally heritage, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
hot rod
"...best hot rod, best classic and best modern classic."
A hot rod is an old car that has been changed to go faster and look cooler. People often show them off at car events and competitions.
A hot rod is a modified car, typically an older model, that has been enhanced for performance and speed. These vehicles often feature powerful engines and custom designs, making them popular in car culture and shows.
all-wheel drive
"I had the Sport all wheel drive. Part two."
All-wheel drive means that all four wheels of the car get power from the engine. This helps the car grip the road better, especially when it's slippery or wet.
All-wheel drive (AWD) is a drivetrain configuration that provides power to all four wheels of a vehicle simultaneously. This enhances traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions.
Nissan Pathfinder
"...This is a Pathfinder based SUV. Seats including the driver, six. And that includes obviously the third row."
The Nissan Pathfinder is a type of SUV that can fit a lot of people and their stuff. It's good for families because it has three rows of seats, so more people can ride in it.
The Nissan Pathfinder is a midsize SUV known for its spacious interior and three-row seating. It's designed to accommodate families and offers a balance of comfort and utility.
Mazda Flair
"... conservative styling, but with a modern infinity flair. What could use improvement?"
The Mazda Flair is a small car that's made for driving around cities. It's easy to park and saves on gas, plus it looks modern and stylish, which makes it a good choice for people who want something practical but nice.
The Mazda Flair is a compact car that is designed primarily for the Japanese market, featuring a blend of practicality and modern styling. It is known for its efficient use of space and fuel economy, making it an appealing option for city driving. The Flair's design emphasizes a contemporary aesthetic while maintaining Mazda's reputation for quality.
turbocharged four-cylinder
"Engine, two-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder with 268 horsepower and 286 pound-feet of torque through a nine-speed automatic transmission."
A turbocharged four-cylinder engine is a type of car engine that has four cylinders and uses a turbocharger to make it more powerful without using a lot of fuel. It's common in smaller cars.
A turbocharged four-cylinder engine uses a turbocharger to increase the engine's efficiency and power output. This type of engine is popular in smaller vehicles as it provides a good balance of performance and fuel economy.
horsepower
"...turbocharged four-cylinder with 268 horsepower and 286 pound-feet of torque..."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. The higher the horsepower number, the faster and stronger the car can go.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, commonly used to describe the power output of engines. It indicates how much work an engine can perform over time, with higher horsepower generally translating to better performance.
torque
"...268 horsepower and 286 pound-feet of torque through a nine-speed automatic transmission."
Torque is a measure of how strong an engine is when it comes to moving things. It helps a car speed up quickly and is important for towing heavy loads.
Torque is a measure of rotational force, which in the context of engines, indicates how much pulling power an engine has. It is crucial for acceleration and towing capacity.
miles per gallon (MPG)
"22 miles per gallon city, 27 on the highway for combined at 24. I got 24.2 miles per gallon over 426 miles."
Miles per gallon (MPG) tells you how far a car can go on one gallon of gas. The higher the number, the less gas the car uses, which is better for your wallet.
Miles per gallon (MPG) is a measure of how far a vehicle can travel on one gallon of fuel. It is an important metric for understanding a vehicle's fuel efficiency, with higher MPG indicating better efficiency.
tow rating
"What I liked about it, the three-ton tow rating, I didn't really realize that until I drilled down into my research on the car..."
Tow rating is how much weight a car can pull behind it, like a trailer. It's important to know if you want to use your car for towing things.
Tow rating refers to the maximum weight a vehicle can safely tow. It's an important specification for those who plan to use their vehicle for hauling trailers or other heavy loads.
turbo lag
"At times, there is a significant turbo lag, and it seems like a little bit of a disconnect between the engine..."
Turbo lag is the time it takes for a turbocharger to start working after you press the gas pedal. It can make the car feel slow to respond at first.
Turbo lag is the delay between the driver pressing the accelerator and the turbocharger providing increased power. This can affect the responsiveness of the vehicle, especially during acceleration.
nine-speed automatic transmission
"it seems like a little bit of a disconnect between the engine and the nine-speed automatic transmission."
A nine-speed automatic transmission is a system in a car that changes gears automatically for you. It has nine different settings to help the car run better and save fuel.
A nine-speed automatic transmission is a type of gearbox that automatically changes gears for the driver, with nine different gear ratios. This can improve fuel efficiency and performance by allowing the engine to operate at optimal RPMs.
base trim price
"Okay, here's the pricing. Base trim price, $61.7. Oh, price is tested $65.100."
Base trim price is the lowest price you can pay for a car without any extra features. It's like the starting point for how much the car costs.
The base trim price refers to the starting price of a vehicle's most basic version, without any additional features or options. This price serves as a benchmark for consumers when comparing different models.
Acura Mdx
"As far as competitors, the Acura MDX is one. It starts at $51.8."
The Acura MDX is a family-friendly SUV that offers a lot of space and comfort. It's known for being a good choice for people who want a luxury vehicle that can carry more passengers and cargo.
The Acura MDX is a mid-size luxury SUV known for its spacious interior, advanced technology, and strong performance. It competes in the luxury SUV market and is popular among families for its versatility.
base model price
"Now remember, the base model price on this particular vehicle is $51.590."
The base model price is the lowest price you can pay for a car without any extra features or upgrades. It's the starting point for how much the car costs.
The base model price refers to the starting price of a vehicle without any additional options or packages. This price typically includes standard features but excludes add-ons that can increase the overall cost.
Genesis GV80
"... base price is $51.800, almost identical. Genesis GV80, $57.7, and the Lincoln Aviator for $56.910. And ..."
Lincoln Aviator
"...0, almost identical. Genesis GV80, $57.7, and the Lincoln Aviator for $56.910. And that's my review of this week's ..."
The Lincoln Navigator is a big, fancy SUV that can fit a lot of people and their things. It's known for being really comfortable and having lots of cool features, making it a great choice for families or anyone who wants a luxurious ride.
The Lincoln Navigator is a full-size luxury SUV that stands out for its spacious interior, high-end materials, and advanced technology features. It is often discussed for its powerful performance and towing capacity, making it suitable for both family use and recreational activities. The Navigator is significant as a flagship model for Lincoln, showcasing the brand's commitment to luxury and comfort.
Infiniti 25 Infiniti
"...t's my review of this week's car of the week, the 25 Infiniti QX-60. Next week, we're going to review the 2026 ..."
The Infiniti G25 is a stylish car that's good for driving comfortably and quickly. It's a smaller luxury sedan that has a nice interior and is fun to drive, making it a good option for someone looking for a fancy but affordable car.
The Infiniti G25 is a luxury sedan that offers a blend of performance and comfort, positioned as an entry-level model in the Infiniti lineup. It features a smooth V6 engine and a well-appointed interior, appealing to those who seek a sporty yet refined driving experience. The G25 is often discussed for its value in the luxury sedan market, providing a compelling alternative to more expensive rivals.
flat four engine
"Flat four, horizontally opposed, turbocharged engine, and a full-time all-wheel drive system."
A flat four engine is a type of engine where the cylinders are arranged flat, which helps the car handle better and stay stable while driving.
A flat four engine, also known as a boxer engine, features horizontally opposed cylinders. This design helps lower the center of gravity of the vehicle, improving handling and stability.
turbocharged engine
"Flat four, horizontally opposed, turbocharged engine, and a full-time all-wheel drive system."
A turbocharged engine is a type of engine that uses a special device to push more air into it, which helps it produce more power without being bigger.
A turbocharged engine uses a turbine to force more air into the combustion chamber, allowing for more fuel to be burned and increasing power output without significantly increasing engine size.
off-roading
"...Off-roading, yeah. Off-roading looking. But it runs so well on the street..."
Off-roading means driving cars on rough surfaces like dirt or rocks instead of smooth roads. Some cars are specially made to handle these tough conditions.
Off-roading refers to driving a vehicle on unpaved surfaces, such as dirt, mud, sand, or rocky terrain. Vehicles designed for off-roading typically have features like higher ground clearance, all-wheel drive, and rugged tires to handle rough conditions.
Subaru
"...You see a lot of the Subaru's. I had a sister-in-law own one for a long time."
Subaru is a car brand from Japan that makes vehicles great for driving in tough conditions, like snow or off-road. Many people like them for family trips and outdoor activities.
Subaru is a Japanese automotive manufacturer known for its all-wheel-drive vehicles and strong performance in off-road conditions. They are popular among outdoor enthusiasts and families for their versatility and reliability.
wilderness package
"...even a Subaru that's dedicated to go off-road, well, because the wilderness is a new package."
A wilderness package is a special set of features for some cars that makes them better for off-road driving. It can include things like tougher tires and higher ground clearance.
A wilderness package is an optional trim or feature set offered by some vehicle manufacturers, particularly Subaru, that enhances a vehicle's off-road capabilities. This may include features like all-terrain tires, increased ground clearance, and additional protective elements.
Request an Explanation
Heard something you'd like explained? We'll add it to this episode.
Sign in to request explanations for terms you heard.
Want to learn more?
Browse our glossary for plain-English explanations of automotive terms, jargon, and concepts.
Help improve this episode
See something that's not quite right? Our annotations are AI-generated and can sometimes miss the mark. Click the flag icon on any annotation to suggest a correction.