Northwest Receives Generous Parts Donation from Toyota of Hernando to Benefit Automotive Technology Program

by Sarah Smith-Hutchinson

Senatobia, MS (07/10/2026) — Northwest Mississippi Community College administration and faculty joined together with Toyota of Hernando and Toyota Motor Corporation on July 7, at Northwest's Haraway Center in Senatobia to discuss a generous donation of parts by Toyota of Hernando to help equip Northwest's Automotive Technology Program.

"This partnership is a way to enhance the auto program for Northwest Mississippi Community College," said Helen Martinez-Mitcham, manager of workforce development for Gulf States Toyota. "And anything we can do to support students in automotive is a plus not only for us, but our local auto industry as well," citing the increased need for automotive techs across the auto industry.

"We have a shortage of techs, and they are our greatest commodity," said McDonald.

The donations from Toyota of Hernando were four pallets of parts that equaled approximately $56,376.84, which help train future automotive tech faculty as they seek to educate the workers of tomorrow. A few Northwest automotive graduates have already taken on careers with Toyota of Hernando, filling various vital roles at the dealership. Garrett McDonald, general manager of Toyota of Hernando, said that it takes a highly-skilled employee with a high aptitude to do a good job as a technician, and they are vital to the future of the auto industry.

Northwest President Dr. Michael J. Heindl noted how this partnership expands opportunities to study high-priority and high demand programs. The CTE programs at the college have grown 43% since his administration began in 2019.

"Getting these parts is going to advance what we can do," said Automotive Technology Instructor Robert Johnston, who labeled this partnership a game changer for the department.

This program also extends into more training and preparation opportunities for faculty to learn new technology and practices, including Johnston who will benefit from training opportunities offered through Toyota.

To McDonald, this partnership seemed like a natural fit. McDonald said that Northwest's ideals fit in line with the Toyota Way which follows "Kaizen" which is "Continuous Improvement" and "Respect for People." The fusion of ideals is essential for the growth and prosperity of the symbiotic relationship the college has with its community. Northwest's mission is to transform students' lives, enrich their communities and strive for excellence.

"We've got amazing momentum right now at the college," said Dr. Heindl.

This partnership forges strong bonds welded together to further progress in the auto industry and educational advancement.

"The future is bright," said McDonald. "We are excited for the program."

To learn more about Northwest, please visit, northwestms.edu

To learn more about Toyota of Hernando, please visit, https://www.toyotaofhernando.com/

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