Auto Body Technology Student Builds His Dream Car

Chip Lapczenski and his Mustang

"Chip" Lapczenski is a 21 year old Auto Body Technology student who lives for high performance cars that have a look of space age technology. In 1998, Chip graduated from Ballston Spa High School in Saratoga, N.Y. and as his graduation present to himself, he financed a new Mustang. His Uncle Rick, an automobile technician, showed him at an early age how cars operate and how to repair and modify them, which he began doing to his Mustang.

After graduation from high school, Chip enrolled at Hudson Valley Community College in Troy, N.Y. In a two-year period of time he had changed his major four times, i.e.: criminal justice, electrical engineering, math and science, and finally automotive technology. During his time at college he would take most of the pay he made while working for a car stereo shop and purchase high performance parts for his car. He then began showing his car at car shows up and down the East Coast, winning trophies for "Best of Show."

One evening, while surfing the net, Chip came across www.neit.edu, New England Tech's web site, and found the college's Auto Body Technology program. Shortly thereafter, he was speaking to New England Tech's National Admissions Officer, Mike Caruso. Chip was soon enrolled in the college's associate degree program in Auto Body Technology.

He has spent a good deal of his time as an Auto Body Technology student modifying his Mustang. The car now boasts an engine with over 400 horsepower that reaches speeds in excess of 150 MPH, which will come in handy when he begins racing on the SCCA's Auto Cross circuit. Internally, the car now has racing seats, roll cage, autometer gauges and 5 point harnesses. The exterior of the car has shaved handles, emblems and antenna, a molded body kit, clear lights, spoiler and a Harlequin flame paint job.

Kevin DiGiovanni has been Chip's mentor and teacher through the build-up of his Mustang, and according to Chip, "Mr. D is one of the best teachers I have ever had!"

When Chip graduates he intends to work in a custom high performance auto body shop for a couple of years and then open his own shop where he can turn dreams into reality.