Michael Mabe | Ep. 111

In part one, Jenny and Michael talked about the importance of vocational education (VO Tech) in Christian schools and how hands-on learning opportunities can equip students for real-world skills while integrating faith into their work. In this continuation, Michael shares more practical steps needed to launch a VO Tech program, even in schools with limited resources.

Key Takeaways: 

• Starting Small — How to introduce your VO Tech program with minimal resources and gradually expand.
• Finding Instructors and Support — Ways to leverage community members, parents, and local businesses to support the school’s program.
• Budgeting and Resources — Creative solutions for acquiring tools, materials, and even donated equipment.
• Ministry Opportunities — How vocational skills can be used to serve local communities.

Christian educators can help students discover and develop talents through a VO Tech program. A variety of areas such as automotive, welding, carpentry, and aviation can build invaluable life skills and open up future career pathways for your students.

Every day in the classroom is an opportunity to impact and inspire through God’s power and grace.

Go do what God has called you to do!

Contact Mr. Mabe:  [email protected]

Michael Mabe’s experience working in trades began at a young age. At fifteen, he started working on cars and farm equipment. After high school he attended Nashville Auto Diesel College for training in Auto, Diesel, and Welding. Michael is a Nationally Certified Auto Diesel Technician, and a Licensed Aviation Technician. He worked as an auto, diesel, and aviation technician from 1972 to 2005 (33 years). During that time, Michael owned and operated his own auto diesel repair shop for fifteen years. In 2006, Michael began teaching at the university level and continued that until 2012. At that time, he was called to start a Trades and Technology school at another Christian college.  Michael led that ministry from 2012 to 2019, after which he returned to Bob Jones to start the Vocational Technology program at Bob Jones Academy, where he currently teaches. For 53 years, Michael has been faithfully working or teaching in the field of automotive and aviation maintenance and vocation technologies.