Career success and wedded bliss were in the future for Angel and Ashley Bodon, who met while attending Mercer County Technical Schools (MCTS). Both 2004 MCTS graduates, Ashley studied in the Cosmetology program while Angel attended the Autobody Collision and Repair Technology program. After marrying, they saw benefits of being partners in business, both having a strong foundation for success after studying at MCTS.
The Bodons, of Hamilton Square, own and operate three Chris’ Auto Body shops, which are located in Lambertville, N.J.; New Hope, Pa.; and Fairless Hills, Pa. Although they studied in different programs at MCTS, both Angel and Ashley said they received skills they continue to use today that keep their businesses thriving.
“Attending the MCTS Auto Collision program prepared me to enter the field at a level that far exceeded most people my age,” said Angel. “I was able to hit the ground running my senior year due to the schools’ co-op program at a facility in Princeton where I ‘earned my stripes’ to become an A-level body technician.”
During the next 10-15 years, Angel learned more about the business side of the industry and, with Ashley’s support, bought an auto body shop in 2023.
“Angel and I started working in our own career areas during our senior year,” said Ashley. “I worked in the cosmetology industry, which surprisingly has a lot in common with the auto collision industry – from both a customer service and business perspective. The work ethic and people skills I learned at MCTS allowed me to transition into a successful leadership role in managing our business. I can’t thank MCTS enough for laying the groundwork regarding quality and effort; I use these key elements every day!”
