At San Diego College of Continuing Education, learning has no age limit and for students like Filomena Alvarez and Josie Bhe Quiatchon, it’s as much about building community as it is about acquiring new skills. Both women, retired from long careers in public service, are enrolled in Continuing Education’s free automotive career training program, using their military family benefits to fuel a new chapter of learning.

“I wanted to understand how automobiles work,” says Filomena, 62, who immigrated from Cavite, Philippines, 45 years ago. “If my car has problems, I won’t get ripped off. I’m learning about how to perform an oil change, the differences between synthetic oil and other types, and I can share this knowledge with my family.”

Josie, 60, from Bataan, Philippines, echoes that sentiment. “My husband travels overseas sometimes, and I have to know how to handle the car on my own. Learning keeps me independent and sharp. Plus, the people here are so friendly, we’ve built a little community of our own.”

For both women, attending the automotive classes four days a week feels like returning to a busy work schedule but this time, the routine provides a social and mental outlet. Filomena notes, “If you don’t continue to learn, your mind can stop. It helps prevent Alzheimer's and keeps you healthy. And it’s exciting! We laugh, exchange experiences, and make new friends. It makes me feel younger and energized.”

Josie adds, “Sometimes you need to keep learning as you get older. It slows the decline that comes with age and gives you the independence to do things on your own and with new friends who are now like family.”

At Continuing Education, the classroom environment is uniquely diverse, with students like Filomena and Josie coming from many different provinces in the Philippines. This rich mix of backgrounds fosters conversations and connections across generations and regions. Many students honor Filipino traditions by hosting potlucks, sharing food as a tangible expression of love, respect, and preserving their cultural heritage.

The automotive classes cover everything from basic engine care and coolant systems to advanced training that prepares students to become certified automotive technicians and pursue a career in the field. Both women say understanding the mechanics behind their cars helps them save money and time, a practical benefit of lifelong learning.

Continuing Education’s automotive program also opens doors to further education and career opportunities. Students can pursue five tuition-free certifications, transition to college programs with some college credit toward a degree, or enter the workforce directly, making it an accessible pathway for all ages to continue growing.

For Filomena and Josie, the experience goes beyond the value of education. It’s about independence, staying mentally active, and forming meaningful connections. “The class is really fun,” Filomena says. “We follow a schedule like a workday, but it’s full of laughter, learning, and friendship. That’s why we come back every week.”

To learn more about Continuing Education’s Automotive classes, please visit: sdcce.edu/automotive