Davis Tech News

KAYSVILLE, Utah (April 28, 2026) — Davis Technical College (Davis Tech) welcomed students, staff, and community members today for the highly anticipated launch of From Breakdowns to Breakthroughs: A Mechanic’s Guide to Repairing What Matters Most by local business owners and influencers Dave and Ali Bell of Dave’s Auto Center in Centerville. The event not only celebrated the book’s release but also marked an investment in the future of technical education, as 100% of the book’s profits will fund scholarships for Davis Tech students.

The morning began with a visit to the Automotive Technology lab, where the Bells connected with auto, diesel, and machining students and instructors. The engagement offered students direct insight into the industry and the value of hands-on work as a pathway to success.

After the auto lab visit, the Bells addressed a larger group in the Davis Tech Great Room. They shared lessons from their journey: starting a business in a storage unit, building a reputation rooted in precision and integrity, and growing a global following through social media.

“This book is really our story—messy, real, and hard-earned. We didn’t start with a perfect marriage or an easy life,” said Dave Bell. “We started with struggles, mistakes, and a lot we didn’t know. But over time, we learned that, just like a car, if something’s not working, you don’t ignore it—you diagnose it, take ownership, and do the work to repair it. That’s what this book is about.”

A highlight of the event was the official scholarship announcement, confirming that every dollar of book profits will directly support Davis Tech students pursuing careers in the trades.

“We are honored to partner with Dave and Ali Bell and grateful for their commitment to technical education,” said Davis Tech President Darin Brush. “Their journey reflects the determination we see every day at Davis Technical College, and by donating 100% of their book’s proceeds to scholarships, they are creating real opportunities for students to build meaningful, in-demand careers.”

Following the program, community members, students, and supporters lined up to purchase books and have them signed—posing for photos and asking questions as they met the authors in person. Every book purchase supported scholarships at Davis Tech.

“Dave and Ali’s willingness to give back in such a meaningful way directly supports students who are striving to change their lives through education,” stated Davis Tech Foundation Director, Lindsey Rees. “As one of our scholarship recipients shared, this support allows them to ‘rebuild, refocus, and move toward a more sustainable future.’ That’s exactly what these funds make possible. We are incredibly grateful for their partnership and excited to see the lasting difference this will make for our students.”

Practical Nurse student Kathryne Sullivan shares, “Being awarded a scholarship feels like someone is telling me that they believe in me. That they believe I will put in the work, they believe I can be challenged to learn and grow, and they believe in the impact I hope to make. So, thank you for believing in me and giving me the chance to believe in myself.”

Dave’s Auto Center, founded by Dave and Ali Bell, has grown from humble beginnings into a trusted automotive business with a global online presence. Their influence and commitment to craftsmanship, discipline, and community impact were evident throughout the event.

“There was a time when we didn’t have anything—no money, no roadmap, just grit and a willingness to work,” said Ali Bell, “This book came from years of hard lessons, and it felt right that we would give back to the next generation. The trades changed our lives. Supporting scholarships is our way of opening that same door for someone else.”

The book is available on Amazon, and continued purchases will contribute to the scholarship fund.