Hydrogen '57 Bel Air Raises $100K for Trade Scholarships

When Devin Smith saw the bidding hit $80,000 for a stunning hydrogen-powered classic car, he didn't stop there. He pushed his own bid to $100,000, knowing every extra dollar would change a student's life.

The cherry-red 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air sold at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale auction on January 21, 2026, marking the event's first-ever hydrogen-powered vehicle sale. Built by CRC Industries for its Build for the Future scholarship initiative, the car attracted an enthusiastic crowd and strong bidding interest.

Smith, who owns Southern Elite Contracting with over 500 employees in skilled trades, saw the purchase as more meaningful than just acquiring a beautiful car. His wife has taught for 21 years, and his business depends on electricians, HVAC technicians, framers, and other tradespeople every day.

"This purchase allows us to combine our love of classic cars with our calling to be good stewards, while supporting education," Smith said. The gesture drew cheers from the crowd as the hammer came down.

The one-of-a-kind Bel Air features a hydrogen-fueled 5.7-liter V-8 engine delivering 500 horsepower, paired with modern upgrades like air conditioning and power steering. NHRA Top Fuel champion Clay Millican helped build the vehicle and even threw in one of his racing fire suits to sweeten the auction package.

The Ripple Effect: That $100,000 will fund more than 10 scholarships through TechForce Foundation, supporting students entering automotive, industrial, and welding careers. Three of those scholarships are specifically designated for women entering these traditionally male-dominated fields.

"This funding will support students with access to training, tools, and industry connections that prepare them for the in-demand skilled trade roles that keep America running," said Jennifer Maher, TechForce Foundation CEO. Each scholarship provides between $2,500 and $8,000, covering tuition, equipment, and other education costs.

CRC Industries has made this effort an ongoing commitment, previously auctioning a 2006 Pontiac GTO and building a 1977 Chevrolet C10 truck that will tour in 2026 before its own auction in 2027. The company sees the initiative as addressing America's critical shortage of skilled technicians while celebrating automotive innovation.

Sometimes the most powerful engine isn't under the hood—it's the one that drives opportunity forward.