Automotive Technology
Automotive Technology program — Designed to prepare students for careers in the automotive service industry
Three‑year sequence — Students begin the program in 9th or 10th grade and continue through 12th grade, building skills each year
NATEF accreditation — The curriculum meets standards set by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation, ensuring industry‑recognized training
Course Descriptions
Small Engines
1 Period/1 Semester/Prerequisites: None
Small engine repair is an instructional program that prepares individuals to troubleshoot, service, and repair a variety of small internal combustion engines, involving both two and four cycle engines used on portable power equipment. Planned activities will allow students to become knowledgeable of fundamental principles and technical skills related to troubleshooting, repairing, identifying parts and making precision measurements. Safety will be a key component of this class. Students will also be exposed to career opportunities related to small engines.
Automotive Technology I
1 Period/1 Semester/Prerequisites: None
Automotive Technology I course emphasizes preventative auto maintenance and general automobile troubleshooting. Course outcomes include routine maintenance and service schedules; and knowledge of mechanical fasteners, automotive related measurements, disc brakes, tires, cooling, electrical, emission, fuel, ignition, steering, suspension, and transmission systems. A strong emphasis will be on shop safety and tool usage. Career exploration opportunities will provide students with information about the automotive industry.
Automotive Technology II
1 Period/Prerequisites: Automotive Technology I
Automotive Technology II will be an introduction to the operation and maintenance of automobile systems. The parts and operation of each of the following systems will be discussed, followed by hands-on lab activities reinforcing the inspection and basic maintenance each area requires. Systems included are the engine, cooling, lubrication, steering, suspension, brakes, electrical, ignition, fuel and basic computer control. Preventative maintenance and safety is stressed in each unit of instruction.
Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Maintenance and Light Repair (MLR)
Automotive Technology III
2 Periods/1 Semester
Prerequisites: Automotive Technology II
Automotive Technology III will further teach the operation and repair of the automotive engine. Classroom and hands-on experiences will be combined to provide skills in all areas of engine service, including engine disassembly, inspection, measurement, and reassembly. Topics include cylinder head valve guide and seat service, piston and cylinder service, crack detection, and cleaning practices. Upon successful completion of Auto III during the fall semester, students may earn dual credit in AUT 151 - Automotive Engine Service & Repair (7 hours).
Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)
1 Period / Prerequisites: None
Diagnostics basics — Identifying issues with scanners and tools.
Hands‑on labs — Real shop work and repairs.
Electrical systems — Circuits, sensors, wiring.
Brakes — Inspection and repair.
Steering/suspension — Alignment and ride control.
Engines — How engines work and fail.
Tool use — Safe use of shop equipment.
Safety certifications — Shop, lift, and tool safety.
NATEF‑aligned skills — Intro industry‑standard training.
Advanced Automotive Technology
ASE prep — Training focused on ASE certification skills.
Advanced diagnostics — Using scanners, scopes, and specialty tools.
Electrical systems — Intermediate testing of circuits and components.
Fuel & ignition — Diagnosing injectors, coils, and timing issues.
Computer systems — Working with sensors, modules, and onboard controls.
Suspension/steering — Intermediate alignment and handling diagnostics.
Brake systems — Testing ABS and hydraulic components.
ASE Entry‑Level — Brakes, electrical, suspension.
EPA 609 — A/C refrigerant handling.
Safety certifications — Tool and equipment safety
Automatic Service
ASE certification prep — Focused training for ASE testing.
Real shop diagnostics — Working in a repair‑facility environment.
Advanced electrical — Testing circuits, sensors, and modules.
Fuel injection — Diagnosing injectors and fuel delivery.
Ignition systems — Coils, timing, and spark issues.
Computer systems — ECU, data streams, and control modules.
Emissions — Diagnosing emission‑related faults.
Suspension/steering — Handling, alignment, and ride issues.
Brakes — ABS and hydraulic diagnostics.
Engine performance — Power loss, misfires, and drivability.
ASE Entry‑Level — Multiple ASE areas.
EPA 609 — Required for A/C refrigerant work.
NATEF‑aligned skills — Advanced industry‑standard competencies.