Automotive Technology

A student works on a car engine in the automotive shop.Automotive Technology trains students in the skills required to meet the demands of the automotive industry. We are NATEF (National Automotive Technical Educational Foundation) and AYES (Automotive Youth Education Services) certified. The NATEF program prepares students for employment as an entry level technician in the automotive repair business. Students are prepared to advance their career through additional technical training programs. Sophisticated diagnostic equipment and emissions testing, coupled with real-world experience, enables our students to repair any domestic or foreign vehicle. Skills learned include servicing the brake, fuel, exhaust, and suspension systems. Students learn electronic diagnostics, air conditioning repair, and billing procedures. Students also learn engine rebuilding and assembly as well as full electrical and computer diagnostics.

What can you do with your Automotive Technology career training?

Auto repair technicians work on a wide variety of systems in automobiles. Technicians diagnose problems, troubleshoot, and make repairs using a variety of tools and equipment. Technicians need to have skills ranging from simple replacement of parts to more complex machining and repairs.

Training you need:

While high school programs, especially those affiliated with the AYES (Automotive Youth Education Service) program prepare students for employment, some students opt for 1-2 years of technical school training. It takes 2-5 years for technicians to become a qualified service technician. Technicians frequently continue their education through manufacturer or specialty certification programs.

Where you can work:

Auto repair shops employ 29% of workers, auto dealerships employ 29% of workers, parts and accessories stores employ 7%. Seventeen percent are self employed with the remainder of workers employed at specialty shops or corporate auto facilities.

What you can earn:

High school graduates earn on average $28,428. Bachelor Degree graduates average $34,188. Auto Techs average $56,480. Diesel Techs average $59,130. Master Techs average $65,000 -$100,000.

Career outlook:

Job growth is expected to increase by 11-19% over the next ten years. The best opportunities will go to technicians with specialized skills and experience.

Certifications or Licenses You May Earn While in High School:

  • Automotive Technology Program Certificate

  • Student ASE (Automotive Service Excellence)

  • Motor Oil Basic Training Certificate

  • 10-Hour OSHA Safety Training

Equipment/software you will learn to use:

We have 25 diagnostic workstations including a General Motors On-Board Diagnostic System Trainer with mobile table, Atech Automotive Electricity Course Board, Atech Advanced Electrical Light System Trainer, Atech Engine Performance Trouble Shooting Trainer, and an Atech Advanced Electrical Trainer for power locks/windows/doors & seats.

What you should know...

Automotive technology students gain the knowledge and critical thinking skills required to meet the demands of the automotive industry. The training our students receive in our state-of-the-art facility means our graduates are enthusiastically recruited by our local automotive businesses. Students who continue their training and gain experience can become Master Techs and earn up to $100,000 per year.

Recommended Course of Study

Grade 9

English
Foreign Language
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
Physical Education
Pathways
1 Elective Course

Grade 10

English
Foreign Language
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
Physical Education
Automotive Technology 1

Grade 11

English
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
Physical Education
Automotive Technology 2

Grade 12

English
Social Studies
Physical Education
Automotive Technology 3
2 Elective Courses