Ashton Coccia, an Auto Collision Technology student at Berks Career & Technology Center and senior at Exeter Township Senior High School, is proving that the right opportunities—and the courage to pursue them—can shape a remarkable career path. Now on co-op as a Diesel Technician with the H&K Group, Ashton traces his journey back to a metal tech class he took as a freshman at Exeter.
“We worked with a lot of metal—welding and grinding different projects,” he recalled. “When I talked to my guidance counselor, they suggested applying to BCTC. Welding was my first choice, but I was on the waiting list, so I chose my second choice, Auto Collision. I had the opportunity to switch programs, but I love what I’m doing here so much, I decided to stick with this. The class is fun, I enjoy the people, and the instructor is really good.”
Ashton says the learning environment at BCTC feels completely different from a traditional high school classroom. “The amount of responsibility they give the students allowed me to grow and get the opportunities at co-op. BCTC will make sure you’re on top of things but there is free range within the program.”
Last spring, Ashton applied to several shops in hopes of securing a summer job in auto collision, but a family friend encouraged him to apply to H&K. “I put myself out there, and I got the job to be a Diesel Technician. It isn’t Auto Collision, but there is so much knowledge in Auto Collision with welding, body work, and understanding how a car works. It gives you a boost in every auto industry. I enjoy being a Diesel Tech, but also enjoy being an Auto Collision Tech.”
As an 18-year-old co-op student, Ashton completes full 8-hour work shifts while continuing his Exeter coursework online. “Being online gives me the free time to work and grow as a person,” he said.
Focused and driven, Ashton is using every experience—from the BCTC lab to the H&K shop floor—to prepare for his future. “I want to take my experiences to put into a military career in the Marine Corps. My stepdad is a former Marine and heavily supports my decision to join the military.”
Whether repairing vehicle panels or diagnosing diesel systems, Ashton is building skills, confidence, and a foundation for a promising career—one shaped by opportunity, determination, and a commitment to his future.