Carroll Smith believes that investing in today’s youth is an investment in the future. 

The Monument Chevrolet president is a driving force in the success of students in the Pasadena Independent School District’s automotive technology program. When Smith became involved with the Automotive Youth Education Systems (AYES) program at the L.P. Card Career and Technical Center, he saw it as an opportunity to give aspiring mechanics and automotive technicians a jump start toward higher education and careers in the automotive industry. 

For his belief in young people and helping give them the keys to their future through the AYES program, Pasadena ISD recently honored Smith with the district’s Distinguished Citizen Award. Smith was presented with the honor at a special ceremony. 

“Carroll Smith models integrity and paves the way for young people who are passionate about the automotive industry,” said Kirk Lewis, Pasadena ISD superintendent. “Carroll and his team of managers are helping today’s youth become the leaders of tomorrow through their contributions to the school district and his community.” 

Smith is a believer in the “grow your own” philosophy, where he brings interns in the AYES program in to work in his dealership and receive “hands-on” training. Through the AYES program, students can receive their ASE automotive service certification by the time they graduate high school. The ASE certification is essential for young automotive technicians entering the job market. With that in mind, Smith continues his support as students enroll in San Jacinto College’s automotive programs, with the hopes of making them permanent, full-time employees in the future.

 Pasadena ISD’s Director of Career and Technical Education Sarah Wrobleski describes Smith as “a true advocate for students in this program.” 

As owner and president of Monument Chevrolet, Smith consistently employs high school students in the program as interns and continues this support throughout their college education. Smith and his employees invest their time in Pasadena classrooms by holding quarterly business and education meetings and school-related awards ceremonies. 

Smith said it is rewarding to see the interns thrive in the AYES program. One of the first interns, Sam Rayburn graduate Lenny Gordon, works full-time at the dealership and will receive his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Houston in May. “Lenny is a true success story,” Smith said. “He truly exemplifies what the AYES program is all about. I am excited about his future with us.” 

In addition to his work with the district, Smith is a board member of the National Automobile Dealers Association and a director with the Houston Automobile Dealers Association. Smith is also a director of the Texas Automobile Dealers Association.

Active in his community, Smith participates in various organizations in the Houston area. He has held the position of treasurer for his local Boy Scout troop and chairman of the Salvation Army and of the YMCA Boards. He has also served on the board of directors of the Greater Houston Partnership. In 1994, in honor of his community contributions, the city of Pasadena named April 1 Carroll Smith Day.

Smith served six years in the U.S. Army National Guard. He earned a bachelor's degree in industrial management from Georgia Tech. He and his wife Lynne reside in Houston. Their older son, W.C., is Sales Manager of Monument Chevrolet and their younger son, Brandon, is currently a co-manager of the Commercial Division of Monument Chevrolet.