Automotive Technology
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:
The Automotive Technology program is a two-year program for juniors and seniors, both male and female, who have indicated a career interest in the Automotive Technology industry. Employment potential and wages are high for the industry and will continue to grow with the increase of technology added to vehicles.
The program provides a three hour block of time in shop and related classroom work. The laboratory and related instruction are based upon ASE Automotive Technician standards which include the skills, attitudes, and knowledge required to achieve entry-level employment in the automotive industry. Students will gain automotive repair skills by studying and learning the theory of the major systems of the modern automobile, including service and diagnostic experience in vehicle maintenance, engine fundamentals and performance. Electrical systems, engine performance, brake systems and steering and suspension systems are emphasized. A heavy emphasis will be placed upon diagnosis and customer work for second year students through our internship program, which places students in local shops working under the supervision of a mentor technician. Instructors are ASE Certified Master Technicians.
This program will include automotive systems, component operations and repair practices as well as shop safety and Professional Development.
Upon completion of the Automotive Technology program, students will be able to enter the automotive industry as an apprentice technician or be able to continue their education in an advanced placement program.
Pathway:
PROGRAM BENEFITS:
- Three high school credits per year
- Competency Certificate with "ASE Certified Program" stamp
- Leadership opportunities through Skills USA-VICA
- Entry level job skills
- Preparation for next level of education/training
- Opportunities for many scholarships
- Possible cross-credit with sending school approval (math, science)
- Articulation with Clark College (up to 45 college credits)
PREREQUISITES:
Ability to read 10th grade level technical manual
Proficient in 10th grade level math*
Mechanical aptitude suitable to trade
*Students need to be able to add, subtract, divide, multiply, and understand percentages and ratios.
ORGANIZATIONS:
Possible enrollment in Skills USA (VICA).
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES:
- Apprentice Mechanic
- Automotive Technician
- Brake and Alignment Specialist
- Parts Counterperson
- Service Manager
- Warranty Parts Administrator
- Service Advisor
- Machinist
- Emission Specialist
The Clark County Skills Center Automotive program has two sessions. The AM session is from 7:50-10:20, and the P.M session is 11:10-1:40. The P.M session has the Advanced Automotive class. Selected students from the first year class qualify for the second year Service class. There are four areas covered primarily, Brakes, electrical, engine performance, and steering/suspension. The Automotive program allows customers to arrange appointments to bring their cars in to be serviced. To arrange an appointment contact staff assistant Kathy Phelan at (360) 604-1050 ext. 2139. Services offered are on a case by case basis but limited to maintenance and basic repair in areas the students have learned about in class. Pricing for customer work is $12.00/hr flat rate plus price for parts required.