Automotive Technology
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:
Our Automotive Technology program is recognized as one of the top high school automotive training facilities in the nation. Our instructors are ASE Certified Master Technicians and our program is certified by NATEF. Our affiliation with Automotive Youth Educational Systems (AYES) and our close partnerships with local dealerships and shops allow us to offer students the ability to get a head start on their career. The employment potential and wages are high for our industry. Trained, Journey-level technicians average $50,000 - $70,000 per year.
This program provides a two and a half-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. During the first year, students will study and learn the theory, operation, and maintenance of all of the major systems on an automobile. This will prepare students for an entry-level job in the industry.
During the second year, students will study diagnosis and repair skills on Brakes, Electrical, Engine Performance, and Steering/Suspension systems. Students will apply that knowledge through our internship program, which places students in local shops working under the supervision of a mentor technician. This will allow students to build their skills and move into higher positions upon graduation. Or if they choose, they may take advantage of our articulation agreement with local colleges and get advanced placement into their Auto Technology program. Students nearing graduation should be fully prepared to pass their Student ASE certification tests demonstrating mastery of the information at this level. This is also good preparation for the ASE Technician Certification tests.
INDUSTRY CERTIFICATION:
- National Automobile Technician Education Foundation (NATEF)
- Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)
Pathway:
PROGRAM BENEFITS:
- 3 High School credits per year
- Competency Certificate from locally recognized ASE Certified Program
- Leadership and competition opportunities through Skills USA
- Entry level job skills
- Preparation for next level of education/training
- Opportunities for many scholarships
- Successful completion of the program, with a grade of “B” or higher, may result in college credit
PREREQUISITES:
Automotive Technology I
- Must have successfully completed Algebra 1 or Integrated Math 1
- Reading proficiency at 10th grade level
- Excellent high school attendance record
Automotive Technology II
- Must pass 1st year program with a B grade or better to qualify for 2nd year; limited space available
- Must have own transportation to training site
RECOMMENDATIONS:
- Courses in Small Gas Engines, Principles of Technology and Physics are recommended.
Note:
- Employment in industry is dependant upon clean driving record, drug test, and background check; may affect ability to be placed on internship.
- Upon acceptance into the program, student and parent/guardian must participate in the Orientation/Interview at the Skills Center.
ORGANIZATIONS:
- Automotive Youth Educational Systems (AYES)
- Skills USA National membership and regional competition and conferences (approximately $25)
- Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)
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.