A new interactive experience created by Rick Case Automotive Group at Junior Achievement of South Florida’s “BizTown” will give South Florida 5th graders a first-hand taste of the car business. The state-of-the-art interactive Rick Case “storefront” is part of “JA BizTown,” a simulated city in JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion. It features a collection of businesses sponsored by local businesses, designed to demonstrate how a functioning economy works by enabling students to play roles as executives, associates, and consumers at companies within the area.
“Our goal was to make our storefront both engaging and educational for the students,” Rita Case says, president and CEO of the Rick Case Auto Group. “We want young people to know that the auto industry is a vital part of our economy and provides great career opportunities, as well.”
As part of this 5th-grade blended program, students apply for jobs at BizTown, earn paychecks, learn to save money and make purchase decisions to teach students essential skills like collaboration, critical thinking, problem solving and communication.
The Rick Case storefront is staffed by a student CEO and CFO and a Sales Consultant and Service Technician. When student “consumers” enter the business, the sales team guides them through the vehicle selection process. They choose and customize their cars or trucks, selecting styles, colors, wheels, and accessories at a virtual vehicle design center. Service techs then demonstrate the basics of auto maintenance, including checking fluid levels and tire pressure.
“We are thrilled to welcome the Rick Case Auto Group, our first-ever, student-run business representing the automotive industry in JA BizTown,” Laurie Sallarulo says, president and CEO of Junior Achievement of South Florida. “This storefront is a great example of a real-world industry leader investing in helping to educate and influence future employees and leaders.”
Over 20,000 5th Grade students from Broward and Palm Beach County are expected to experience JA BizTown this school year.
The Rick Case Automotive Group is celebrating its 60th year in business in 2022, with its national headquarters located at 14500 W. Sunrise Blvd. in Sunrise.
