The Charlotte area is the site of many NASCAR (and many other) race teams. Specifically, the town of Concord (Exit 49 - I85) and Mooresville (Exit 36 - I77) have many race teams. There are also many companies that "support" the NASCAR race teams, such as building frames, engine parts, engine accessories, etc.
You may have to start out sweeping floors or cleaning parts but communicating your future degree will help you get into these companies. You couldn't find a better place to start a career with a race team.
Considering that your truck is a F250, it only requires a visual inspection. I have a 1997 F250 and a 2005 F350 and both only require the visual inspection.