From Classroom to Racetrack: Alumni Drive Innovation in Automotive Education

In this episode of the Roots and Branches JJC Alumni Podcast, host Jen Davis dives into an exciting and creative project taking place at Joliet Junior College this summer — the construction of a JJC alumni race car set to compete in the 5-0 race on August 2nd in support of Special Olympics Illinois. Featuring guests AJ Graff, Manager of Automotive Services; Joe Stalzer, Associate Professor of Automotive Technology; and Jason Rose, JJC Patrol Officer, Automotive Instructor, and the race car driver, the discussion explores this unique collaboration between JJC's Automotive and Police Departments. 

The guests share their experiences as JJC alumni, the journey leading up to their current roles, and provide insights into the automotive program's state-of-the-art facilities and industry partnerships that set their students up for success. They also delve into the impactful aspects of the race car project, both as a hands-on learning opportunity for students and a promotional tool for the college. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about innovation, community engagement, and the importance of giving back.

To donate to the JJC Alumni Race Car project, visit Support the JJC Alumni Race Car & See Your Name on It!

Creators and Guests

Host

Jen Davis

Jen Davis currently serves as the Annual Giving and Alumni Relations Manager at Joliet Junior College. As a former English instructor, she has spent more than two decades in higher education serving students at various points in their educational and professional careers. In her current role, Jen works to foster meaningful relationships with JJC alumni, bridging past experiences with present opportunities. Her outreach efforts include planning small and large-scale events, designing and executing yearly social media, direct mail and e-campaigns, and collaborating with other departments on campus to keep alumni engaged and connected. On occasion, Jen will also expand her role to that of JJC’s mascot, Wiley Wolf, for on-campus events and print media.

Guest

A.J. Graf

A.J. Graf is the Automotive Program Manager at Joliet Junior College (JJC), where his connection to the campus runs deep. A proud alumnus of JJC (Class of 2006), AJ grew up immersed in the college’s automotive culture—his father was an instructor in the department for 17 years and even taught AJ in his early coursework. After earning his degree, AJ returned to JJC not just as a graduate but as a dedicated professional passionate about shaping the next generation of technicians. He’s played a key role in helping the program grow, particularly following the 2011 facility remodel that transformed JJC’s auto shop into a state-of-the-art training center modeled after modern dealership service departments. Under AJ’s leadership and with support from administration and industry partners like Hunter Engineering, Subaru, and Toyota, the program continues to thrive. He takes pride in maintaining an up-to-date, hands-on learning environment that’s clean, professional, and industry-relevant—preparing students to become top-tier technicians. AJ believes JJC’s program isn’t just one of the best in Illinois—it’s among the best in the nation for associate degrees in automotive technology.

Producer

Amanda Quinn

Amanda Quinn currently serves as the Director of Institutional Advancement at Joliet Junior College, where she leads the college's fundraising efforts with a focus on major gifts and corporate support. With over 15 years of experience in fundraising, communications, and marketing, Amanda aligns fundraising strategies with the college’s priorities to ensure growth and success. She has a proven track record of enhancing annual fund programs, organizing key events, and cultivating valuable relationships with donors. Amanda's strategic vision and dedication have significantly contributed to the advancement of Joliet Junior College.

Guest

Joe Stalzer

After 18 years as a dealer technician, Joe Stalzer decided to become an automotive instructor with encouragement of his high school teacher wife and his high school auto teacher from Tinley Park, IL. Since then, Stalzer has moved to Minooka which brought him to JJC in spring 2020 to earn college experience. As a student, Stalzer spent a lot of time observing his instructors and he believes this taught him more than just the subject matter, but also how to better understand his new career. After graduation in May 2021, Stalzer was able to apply and replace the retiring Professor Coleman and was hired in August 2021. Besides being a full-time instructor, Stalzer also encourages auto students to pursue dealer factory training. In addition to his responsibilities in the classroom, Stalzer manages projects like the Alumni race car.

Guest

Officer Jason Rose

Officer Jason Rose is a Certified Law Enforcement Officer with ten years of experience. He is also an ASE Master Technician and serves as both a Campus Police Officer and an Adjunct Instructor for the Automotive Service Technology program at Joliet Junior College.   After graduating from the Automotive Service Technology Program at JJC, he earned a bachelor's degree in Technical Management from DeVry University. In the private sector, he worked as a Project Manager and Operations/IT Manager for a mid-sized furniture dealership.   Returning to JJC in 2015, Officer Rose has taken on multiple roles, including Ranger Officer, Technology Instructor, Physical Security Group Senior Member, Fleet Manager, ATV and Bicycle Instructor, Webpage Coordinator, and Investigator. He is now entering his third year as an Adjunct Automotive Technology Instructor where he continues to share his extensive knowledge and passion for the field with his students.

What is Roots and Branches JJC Alumni Podcast?

Welcome to the Roots and Branches JJC Alumni Podcast!

As the nation’s first community college, Joliet Junior College has played a key role in shaping America’s higher education system. Our rich and beautiful history reaches more than a century into the past, forever connecting generations of alumni.

In each episode, we sit down with different alumni to uncover their most cherished memories, hear their inspiring tales, and get their hard-earned wisdom for future Wolves.

So, if you’re ready to dive into the roots of our rich history and branch out into the stories that define us, hit that subscribe button and join us on the Roots and Branches JJC Alumni Podcast!

For more information, Foundation events, and ways to give or get involved, visit jjc.edu/alumni and follow us on social media.