Originally from Canada, Derek brings two decades of driver coaching, instructing and presenting experience to the B.R.A.K.E.S. program. He was involved with the early development of our teen program and has taught classes in both Charlotte and Pomona. Derek has competed in everything from go-karts, formula cars, endurance and stock cars. Currently Derek is working with Penske Racing.
"First, let me say a HUGE thank you for creating the "Put On The Brakes" program. Our youngest daughter, Tessa, went through the training held last year in Irvine, CA. Because I wasn’t working at the time, we couldn’t afford Master Drive (the program we’d put our older daughter through) and a friend recommended your program to us. We signed her up immediately and were so thankful that she had the training that made us comfortable with her driving. Last Friday, my other daughter (Aspen’s) car, a 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee, broke down and we learned that it needed thousands of dollars of work. She’s attending Bible Institute with plans on becoming a worship leader in church… and, again, money was an issue. But my husband said we should look at Kia because that’s the car he’d driven in the Brakes program and it was affordable and a good car. So, we looked and we bought! She’s the proud owner of a 2015 Kia Soul - she’s making the payments herself, too! If it hadn’t been for Kia’s support of the Brakes program - we wouldn’t be owners of a Kia - please let them know that their support of programs like yours has a tremendous impact on the next generation of drivers. Thanks so much for your help in ensuring our girls are safe when they drive. We so appreciate it! We know your story - but we can’t imagine your loss. Our hearts are full when we think of the significant contribution you’re making into the lives of families across America as a result of the loss of your boys. We pray for you and your family!"
-Judi Chimits (and Bob)
"Thank-YOU for an incredible experience. My daughter learned so much and she did talk all the way home about her experience. She was so excited and she really enjoyed each instructor. Again, thank-you so much. She is thinking about doing her senior project on BRAKES and with that comes a fundraiser that will go towards your organization so we will be in touch. Thank-you again."
-M. M. Strickland
