Founder's Forum - Bendix Academy

FOUNDER’S FORUM – Mechanical Self-Reliance: A Skill for Life

by bendixacademy | Feb 28, 2025 | Founder's Forum, Newsletter, Vol1 No2 2025 Winter

By Todd Trainor, Founder and Program Director of Bendix Academy

In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, mechanical self-reliance is a skill that is becoming increasingly rare, yet it remains as valuable as ever.

At Bendix Academy, we believe that the ability to understand, maintain, and repair mechanical systems is not just a useful skill—it’s a fundamental aspect of personal empowerment, problem-solving, and resilience. It’s why we are so committed to mentoring young students in the art and practice of toolmanship. We know that by equipping them with hands-on mechanical skills, we are giving them the ability to shape their own futures and to be of service to others.

Mechanical self-reliance is the ability to diagnose and resolve mechanical issues independently. It means knowing how to use tools effectively, understanding the basics of mechanics, and having the confidence to tackle repairs, modifications, and maintenance tasks without always relying on a someone else.

Whether it’s tightening a loose cabinet door screw, assembling furniture from a box, fixing a leaky faucet, changing a car tire, repairing a broken appliance, or building something from scratch, mechanically self-reliant individuals take control of their environment rather than being at its mercy.

Mechanical Self Reliance:

Having the confidence to

tackle repairs,

modifications, and

maintenance tasks

without always relying on someone else.

Above: A student works on dissembling an auto engine

As our students enter adulthood, being mechanically self-reliant will save money, time, and frustration. Instead of paying for costly repairs or waiting for a professional to fix something simple, a mechanically skilled person can take action immediately.

But beyond the financial benefits, mechanical self-reliance builds confidence.

There’s a deep satisfaction in knowing that you can solve problems with your own two hands. It also fosters critical thinking, patience, and a practical mindset that carries over into many other aspects of life.

Above: A student holds an alternator he just removed from a car

Mastering toolmanship skills not only lays the groundwork for success in fields like trades, engineering, and maintenance but also gives students a distinct edge in the job market. Those who develop mechanical self-reliance open themselves to more career options, enjoy greater job stability, and are better positioned for fulfilling, long-term employment in industries that consistently need skilled hands-on professionals.

Mechanical self-reliance isn’t just an individual benefit—it’s a community benefit. A person with mechanical know-how is an asset to their family, friends, and neighbors.

Below: A student works with a mentor on a cam gear

Passion for Toolmanship

I founded Bendix Academy and its toolmanship program because of the self-confidence and mechanical skills that I learned from my father and grandfather. It’s my passion to pass these skills on to our students so that they, too, can experience the empowerment that comes with being mechanically self-reliant. ~ Todd Trainor

Through our Toolmanship Mentoring program, experienced mentors pass down their skills and wisdom to young students, equipping them with mechanical knowledge that serves as a gateway to independence and success.

In an era where schools are eliminating shop classes and fewer young people are learning practical skills, we see it as our mission to bridge the gap. We don’t just teach students how to use tools—we teach them confidence, problem-solving, and the mindset that they are capable of handling life’s challenges.

Mechanical self-reliance has implications far beyond just fixing things. It fosters resilience in a world where so much is disposable and where reliance on technology has led to a decline in practical skills. It keeps the spirit of craftsmanship alive. It creates a sense of empowerment and self-sufficiency that spills over into all aspects of life, from career success to personal fulfillment.

Why we’re here

At Bendix Academy, we believe that every student who learns to use a wrench, a drill, or a saw is not just gaining a skill—they’re gaining a lifelong advantage. And when they, in turn, pass on that knowledge to others, the impact grows exponentially. That’s why we do what we do.

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FOUNDER’S FORUM – Todd Trainor’s Vision for Bendix Academy’s Future

by bendixacademy | Nov 18, 2024 | Founder's Forum, Newsletter, Vol1 No1 2024 Fall

Todd Trainor, the passionate founder of Bendix Academy, has recently taken on a new role as the Program Director, stepping into an active leadership position to guide the academy into its next chapter. Having always been deeply committed to creating opportunities for youth to learn valuable hands-on skills, Todd’s excitement for this new role is palpable. He now leads efforts to expand and enhance the curriculum, as well as develop new programs designed to prepare the next generation for careers requiring toolmanship skills such as trades, maintenance, or engineering.

Since its inception, Bendix Academy has been dedicated to providing students, starting as early as age 12, with practical education in fields like auto mechanics, woodworking, electrical work, plumbing, and beyond. The academy’s mission is to equip students with the confidence and abilities they need to explore and succeed in trade professions—fields that are increasingly in demand in today’s economy. As Todd looks forward to this new chapter, he remains focused on the academy’s original vision while scaling its efforts to meet the growing demand.

“There’s so much excitement around where we’re heading. We’re working hard to meet our potential and looking forward to an amazing 2025!” ~ Todd Trainor

One of Todd’s primary objectives in his new role is to increase the academy’s capacity to serve more students from Brighton and surrounding communities. With more youth expressing a desire to learn about the skilled trades, and fewer programs available to fulfill that need, interest in learning toolmanship at the Academy is growing rapidly. This surge in demand is a driving force behind Todd’s efforts to expand the range of courses offered at Bendix Academy and create a more comprehensive learning experience.

“Not long ago, it was typical that young people learned toolmanship skills form their parents, like I did from my father in the 70’s. No grades or certifications, just passing it on. However, that has quietly declined over the years. Fortunately, our program has restored toolmanship mentoring. The community has discovered us, and demand is skyrocketing.”

Building out the curriculum is no small task, but Todd is committed to ensuring that Bendix Academy remains at the forefront of hands-on education. The academy has already developed many of the foundational courses, and the next step is to create additional core lessons and provide specialized elective opportunities, giving students a chance to hone specific skills that align with their interests and career goals.

By expanding the mentor pool, Todd aims to give each student personalized support as they navigate their learning journey.

Mentorship is another key aspect of Bendix Academy’s model, and Todd is working to recruit more skilled professionals and retirees to volunteer as mentors. These mentors provide invaluable guidance, sharing their industry expertise and helping to bridge the gap between education and the working world.