AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY
The Automotive Technology Course is a complete overview of automotive mechanical operations and the repair of all the components of cars and light trucks. The program is designed to prepare students for further automotive education or to work in the field as an entry level technician. Hand and power tool use is taught as well as theory of operations of the various systems of vehicles including computer systems. Graduates learn the necessary knowledge and skills to function as an Automotive Technician.
WHAT ARE THE CLASSES ABOUT?
Identify problems, often by using computerized diagnostic equipment
Plan work procedures, using charts, technical manuals, and experience
Test parts and systems to ensure that they work properly
Follow checklists to ensure that all critical parts are examined
Perform basic care and maintenance, including changing oil, checking fluid levels, and rotating tires
Repair or replace worn parts, such as brake pads, wheel bearings, and sensors
Perform repairs to manufacturer and customer specifications
Explain automotive problems and repairs to clients
WHAT SKILLS WILL STUDENTS LEARN?
Students will learn how to repair and maintain suspension and steering, electrical/electronic systems, heating and air conditioning, Manual Drive Train and Axles, and Automatic Transmission/Transaxle. Students will also perform “live work” for customers which provides them with valuable experience in estimating, parts ordering, and customer service. Academic work in class will include: basic math skills, algebra, formulas and technical writing.
WHAT CREDENTIALS ARE AVAILABLE?
Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Student Certification
OSHA-10 General Industry Automotive Certification
West Virginia State Inspection License
Automotive Lift Institute Certified Lift Inspector credential
WHAT JOBS/JOB TITLES ARE AVAILABLE TO THE STUDENTS AFTER GRADUATION?
Air Conditioning Technician
Brake & Front End Specialist
Electrical Specialist
Tool & Equipment Sales
Drivetrain Specialist
Drivability Technician
Parts Specialist
Dealership Sales
After-Market Sales
Heavy Duty Specialist
Service Consultant
Parts Sales
WHAT WORK SKILLS WILL BE NEEDED FOR THESE JOBS?
Team Player
Problem Solver
Scientific
Troubleshoot Problems
Valid Driver’s license
Self-Motivated
Strong Concentration & Focus
Understand Math & Physics
Mathematical
Lift Heavy Loads
Persistent
WHAT SKILLS SHOULD A STUDENT HAVE TO BE SUCCESSFUL IN YOUR PROGRAM?
Physically (sitting, standing, lifting) demanding with the need for high-energy in a stressful, noisy, and active environment. Someone who enjoys being around automobiles, that has the dedication and focus needed to solve mechanical and technical difficulties. Students will also need to be drug free.
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
Students must pass curriculum safety component to continue in the program.
Currently hold or eligible to obtain a valid driver’s license
For Adult General Admission Requirements, click here.
SIMULATED WORKPLACE REQUIREMENTS
This program participates in the West Virginia Department of Education Simulated Workplace environment.
For more information and requirements, click here.
TECHNOLOGY REQUIREMENTS
Students will be provided with any technology instruction, devices and software required.
STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS
Students may enroll in SkillsUSA.
PROGRAM LENGTH
2 Academic Years (22 months) – 1080 clock hours (Secondary & Adult part-time enrollment)
1 Academic Year (10 months) – 1080 clock hours (Adult full-time enrollment)
Consisting of eight (8), nine-week courses of 135 clock hours each
SCHEDULE OF COURSES
Course Frequency: Each course offered once each academic year
Secondary & Adult Part-time schedule shown below.
Adult Full-time schedule includes the 1st year schedule in the morning and the 2nd year schedule in the afternoon
1ST YEAR SCHEDULE: MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:30AM – 11:00AM
1631 Automotive Technology MLR-1
1623 Automotive Technology MLR-2
1625 Automotive Technology MLR-3
1637 Automotive Technology MLR-4
2ND YEAR SCHEDULE: MONDAY – FRIDAY 12:30PM – 3:00PM
1629 Automotive Technology AST-1
1633 Automotive Technology AST-2
1635 Automotive Technology AST-3
1627 Automotive Technology AST-4
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
1631 AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY MLR-1
This course introduces the student to the knowledge base and technical skills as they relate to the field of Automotive Technology. In the Automotive Technology MLR-1 class areas of study include Automotive Service Consultant, Career Opportunities and Practices, Shop and Personal Safety, Tools and Equipment, Preparing Vehicle for Service, Electrical-General Electrical System Diagnosis, Electrical-Diagnosis and Service of Batteries, and Engines-Lubrication and Cooling Systems Diagnosis and Repair. Students utilize problem-solving techniques and participate in hands-on activities to develop an understanding of course concepts. Teachers should provide each student with real world learning opportunities and instruction. Students are encouraged to become active members of the student organization, SkillsUSA West Virginia. All West Virginia teachers are responsible for classroom instruction that integrates learning skills, technology tools, and skill sets.
1623 AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY MLR-2
Automotive Technology MLR-2 continues as students are exposed to skills sets in areas such as Steering and Suspension-Diagnosis and Repair of Wheels and Tires, Brakes-Diagnosis and Repair of Hydraulic Systems, Brakes-Diagnosis and Repair of Drum Brake Systems, Brakes-Diagnosis and Repair of Disk Brake Systems, Brakes-Diagnosis and Repair of Power Assist Units, Brakes- Diagnosis and Repair of Miscellaneous Automotive Items, Brakes-Diagnosis and Repair of Anti- lock Brake Systems and Steering and Suspension-Diagnosis of Steering & Suspension Systems, Students utilize problem-solving techniques and participate in hands-on activities to develop an understanding of course concepts. Teachers should provide each student with real world learning opportunities and instruction. Students are encouraged to become active members of the student organization, WV SkillsUSA. All West Virginia teachers are responsible for classroom instruction that integrates learning skills, technology tools, and skill sets.
1625 AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY MLR-3
Automotive Technology MLR-3 build student skill sets in the areas of Electrical-Demonstrate Starting System Diagnosis and Repair, Electrical-Demonstrate Charging System Diagnosis and Repair; Electrical-Demonstrate Lighting System Diagnosis and Repair, Electrical-Demonstrate Accessories System Diagnosis and Repair, Engines, General Engines, Engines-Diagnosis and Repair of Cylinder Head and Valve Train, and Engine Performance-General Engine Diagnosis. Students utilize problem-solving techniques and participate in hands-on activities to develop an understanding of course concepts. Teachers should provide each student with real world learning opportunities and instruction. Students are encouraged to become active members of the student organization, WV SkillsUSA. All West Virginia teachers are responsible for classroom instruction that integrates learning skills, technology tools, and skill sets.
1637 AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY MLR-4
Automotive Technology MLR-4 completes the Program of Study with skills sets in the areas of Engine Performance-Computerized Engine Controls; Engine Performance-Fuel, Air Induction, and Exhaust Systems Diagnosis and Repair; Engine Performance-Emissions Control Systems Diagnosis and Repair; Automatic Transmission and Transaxle-Diagnosis Maintenance, and Adjustment; Manual Drive Train and Axles-Diagnosis, Maintenance, and Adjustment; and Heating and Air Conditioning-Diagnosis, Maintenance, and Adjustment. Students utilize problem-solving techniques and participate in hands-on activities to develop an understanding of course concepts. Teachers should provide each student with real world learning opportunities and instruction. Students are encouraged to become active members of the charging systems, engine retarders, fuel systems, and governor operation. Safety instruction is integrated into all activities. Students utilize problem-solving techniques and participate in hands-on activities to develop an understanding of course concepts. Teachers should provide each student with real world learning opportunities and instruction. Students are encouraged to become active members of the student organization, WV SkillsUSA. All West Virginia teachers are responsible for classroom instruction that integrates learning skills, technology tools, and skill sets.
1629 AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY AST-1
The Skill Sets in Automotive Technology AST-1 will introduce students to the skills sets related to Electrical-Electrical/Electronic System Basics; and Alternative Fuels-Hybrid Vehicles; NAFTC Program or Additional electrical Tasks from NATEF MAST Program. This course is recommended as an Elective in Automotive Technology.
1633 AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY AST-2
The Skill Sets in Automotive Technology AST-2 will concentrate on the skills sets related to Steering and Suspension; and Brakes. This course is recommended as an Elective in Automotive Technology.
1635 AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY AST-3
The Skill Sets in Automotive Technology AST-3 will introduce students to Engines-General Engines: Engine Diagnosis; Removal and Re-installation (R&R); Engines-Diagnosis and Repair of Cooling and Lubrication Systems; and Engine Performance-General Engine Diagnosis. This course is recommended as an Elective in Automotive Technology.
1627 AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY AST-4
The Skill Sets in Automotive Technology AST-4 will introduce students to the skills, technology, and service of Automatic Transmission and Transaxle-Diagnosis, Maintenance, Repair and Adjustment; Manual Drive Train and Axles-Diagnosis, Maintenance, Repair and Adjustment; and Heating and Air Conditioning-Diagnosis, Maintenance, Repair and Adjustment. This course is recommended as an Elective in Automotive Technology.