Jessica Vejar makes an Impact in Motorsports after UNOH
Posted on Thursday, January 02, 2020
UNOH Grad Jessica Vejar, Photo Credit: Red's Drag Racing Photos
Racing has been a predominantly male hobby since the start of racing, but Jessica Vejar did not let that deter her from reaching for her dreams. Jessica came to Ohio from Clermont, Florida to study everything about racing and automotive technology. While at UNOH, Jessica graduated with degrees in Automotive Technology and High Performance Motorsports Technology, and a diploma as an Alternate Fuels Technician in 2015.
Even though women make up a minority in motorsports, Jessica never had an issue finding her place in the sport. While studying at UNOH, Jessica was a member of the Motorsports Team and took leadership as a Student Ambassador for the university. She is now full speed in the field as a clutch assistant and tires for Scott Palmer Racing.
When Jessica graduated, she started her career with Don Schumacher Racing. From their Quarter Midget program to working hospitality, Jessica was able to get her foot in the door to the world of racing and the opportunities it holds. In her current position with Scott Palmer Racing, she is in the middle of the action at the tracks and a helping hand in the shop.
Jessica’s responsibilities don’t stop there, she also drives the race rig to every event across the country. Her biggest recommendations to students would be to get involved and take advantage of opportunities, don’t be afraid to ask your instructors questions, and lastly, “get your CDL! If you have your CDL that will put you above other applicants going for the same job as you.”
UNOH provides many opportunities to expand one’s area of study by adding on other degrees and certifications. Jessica valued the instructors and their care for students when they showed interest and asked questions. “If I was struggling in a certain area, they would always go above and beyond to provide me with more criteria so I was able to excel,” Jessica said. The instructors are known for pushing to help their students succeed.
“With the knowledge I obtained at the university, I am able to complete tasks more efficiently,” Jessica explained. “My favorite thing I learned was High Performance Custom Engine Building. Working and being hands on with equipment that is used in the industry was amazing! To make adjustments to the engine, run it on the engine dynos, and see what it did was awesome. Plus I love engines, it’s basically the heart of the vehicle.”
From learning the fundamentals hands-on in the classroom to acquiring a good work ethic while being on the race team, Jessica found her success in racing while at UNOH. She exclaimed, “If it was not for this school, I don’t think I would be where I’m at today!”
Category: Applied Technologies
Keywords: Jessica Vejar
