A group of female high school students receive hands-on experience at the racetrack
NEW SMYRNA BEACH, Fla., March 19, 2025 -- A group of female high school students from Volusia County's Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs got hands-on experience in the trades at the Sons of Speed vintage motorcycle race. The event was part of Northern Tool + Equipment's Tools for the Trades™ program, designed to fuel a growing interest in trade careers. The group was guided by female professionals already working in the field.
"Hosting a crew of young women fired up about the trades brought a new energy to the track—serious talent, passion, and a whole lot of hope for the future of this industry," says Billy Lane, Sons of Speed Founder.
Students learned from four women thriving in various, in-demand trade careers:
- Jody Perewitz: World-class custom painter, land-speed record holder and vintage motorcycle racer.
- Shelly Rossmeyer Pepe: Former Harley-Davidson dealership owner and general manager.
- Marilyn Stemp: Writer, editor & photographer specializing in motorcycle industry media.
- Dystany Spurlock: Female truck driver who also drag races on weekends.
Check out this video highlighting the inspiring day.
"I know the importance of breaking barriers in male-dominated industries," says Spurlock. "This event proves women belong in any field they choose."
"Giving these young women the chance to see the trades and motorcycle racing up close demonstrates that no industry is off-limits," says Perewitz.
The Tools for the Trades™ program launched in 2021 and addresses the nationwide shortage of skilled tradespeople. The program provides students and educators with access to professional-grade tools and equipment and unique learning opportunities, like track days at Sons of Speed.
"We're proud to create opportunities that inspire and equip the next generation of tradespeople to build lasting careers," says Frank Crowson, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of Northern Tool + Equipment.
About Northern Tool + Equipment:
Northern Tool + Equipment is a family-owned company serving both DIYers and trades professionals tackling the tough projects. A leading supplier of more than 100,000 high-quality tools and equipment for over 40 years, the company's highly-trained team has an immense breadth of knowledge to help customers in-person at more than 130 retail stores, online and over the phone through their fully-staffed contact center. From helping customers get the right tool for the job to assisting with parts and repairs that keep tools running at peak performance, customer service is at the foundation of Northern Tool's mission. Learn more about Northern Tool + Equipment at NorthernTool.com and stay connected through social media: Facebook (@northerntool), Instagram (@northern_tool), TikTok (@northerntool), X (Twitter) (@northerntool), YouTube and Pinterest.
About Sons of Speed:
Founded in 2017 by Billy Lane, owner of Choppers Inc., Sons of Speed takes inspiration from the early 20th century board track racing that showcases pre-1950 V-twin American motors and stripped-down bikes from some of the industry's biggest names.
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