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Brookdale automotive technology student Bishes Mukherjee has been named the 2025 recipient of the Mid-Jersey Region Antique Automobile Club of America’s Collector Car Hobby Mid-Jersey Scholarship. The annual scholarship supports students who demonstrate both technical skills and a commitment to preserving the history and artistry of classic cars.

Brookdale automotive technology student Bishes Mukherjee has been named the 2025 recipient of the Mid-Jersey Region Antique Automobile Club of America’s Collector Car Hobby Mid-Jersey Scholarship.

The award presentation took place at TK’s Ice Cream in Cream Ridge during the club’s annual Cruise Night, where Brookdale Automotive Technology Instructor George Poosikian accepted the scholarship on Bishes’ behalf.

Bishes has been instrumental in Brookdale’s restoration of a 1966 Chrysler Newport—formerly a Union Beach Police Department vehicle—working side by side with Poosikian and Steven Malo to bring the classic cruiser back to life.

“Restoring a classic car like the 1966 Chrysler Newport isn’t just about getting it to run, it’s about honoring its story,” Bishes said. “Every detail, from the trim to the police department’s original markings, had to be carefully considered to preserve its historical integrity.”

In addition to the Newport restoration, Bishes is currently interning at Tesla. His scholarship essay emphasized how these experiences, both modern and historic, inform one another and shape his approach to automotive technology.

“This restoration taught me how to balance respect for a car’s original design with the technical skills needed to make it roadworthy today,” he explained. “That kind of work really brings together the art and science of automotive technology.”

Automotive Technology Class at Brookdale Community College.
The very first day I met George M Poosikian things started changing in my life. He got me out of the shell. I started making videos with him. I learned Automotive Drivelines, Automotive Air Conditioning, and Automotive Engine from him. He introduced me to the real world of automotive work, and I truly believe I’m better for it. I’ve been fortunate to have him as my professor for two consecutive semesters, but now that time is coming to an end. I will definitely miss him, his classes, and our hot rod discussions.

This fall, Bishes will continue his education at the Pennsylvania College of Technology, a national leader in applied technology education and part of the Penn State system. He is taking advantage of Brookdale’s unique articulation agreement with Penn College, which allows graduates of Brookdale’s Automotive Technology Program to transfer as full juniors and complete a bachelor’s degree in Automotive Management with just two additional years of study.

Brookdale’s Automotive Technology Program is recognized for its 100% hands-on learning model, expert faculty, and industry partnerships. Students gain firsthand experience in diagnostics, repair, and restoration skills that prepare them for careers in both contemporary and classic automotive sectors.

“I’m excited to keep learning, improve my skills, and mix tradition with new approaches in my work,” Bishes added.

For Bishes, the scholarship is not just a recognition of his past work, but a launchpad toward a career dedicated to both preserving the past and driving the future of the automotive world.