*Small Engine Explorers*
Aug 11 - Nov 03 (Tuesday)
3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Ages 8-12
Ledford's Shop
$0.00
About This Activity
Gene Ledford is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, small business owner, and experienced instructor with over 20 years in the mechanical field. His career includes 10 years as a mechanic, along with extensive experience in fleet management, consulting, and leadership roles. Combined with an MBA, Gene brings a strong balance of technical expertise and business insight to everything he does. A proud husband and father of two homeschooled children, Gene values family and education. In the classroom, he is passionate about teaching hands-on skills, problem-solving, and the confidence to approach mechanical challenges. His goal is to ensure students not only learn how mechanical systems work, but also understand why those skills matter in their everyday life. By combining introductory and foundational content into one age-appropriate course, students gain meaningful experience without being overwhelmed by advanced technical material. Students learn how small engines work as complete systems—including air, fuel, spark, compression, and exhaust—through guided, hands-on activities using model engines and real components. Lessons focus on understanding systems visually and physically, helping younger students grasp concepts through doing rather than memorization. Classes emphasize proper shop safety habits, correct use of basic tools, and building mechanical confidence at a pace that fits this age group. Instruction is highly supervised and broken into clear, manageable steps to ensure students feel successful and supported. · Throughout the course, students will: Identify engine parts and understand their basic functions Practice simple maintenance skills such as air filter service, oil checks, and spark plug inspection Participate in guided disassembly and reassembly activities using model engines Clean and inspect engine components to learn how parts wear and function Observe safe demonstrations of engine startup and operation
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