Course Description
The Automotive Tech Prep program prepares students with the necessary technology skills to enter a professional career in an automotive setting and further their education at the post-secondary level. Up-to-date instruction, technology, and equipment reflects current employment conditions and job expectations in today’s workplaces. The program develops the student’s ability to transfer their skills and knowledge to new tasks, to continue lifelong learning, and to compete in the global marketplace. This program prepares students to enter a two- or four-year college program for automotive technology or in a related career field. Automotive Tech is a College Tech Prep Program – students successfully completing this program may receive advanced college credits.
What Students Will Learn
Level I ~ Lab 2 credits ~ Academic 1 credit
Level II ~ Lab 2 credits ~ Academic 1 credit
- Basic Automotive Procedures
- Electrical/Electronic Systems
- Engine Construction/Theory
- Safety in Automotive
- Automotive Careers
- Brake Systems
- Steering/Suspension Systems
- Engine Performance Systems
- Advanced Electrical/Electronic Systems Diagnostics & Theory
- On-Board Computer Diagnostics & Theory
Program Completion Requirements
Students are required to complete a career related research project in both the junior and senior years. Students are also provided the opportunity to compete in the local, state, and national competition as members of SkillsUSA. Students are also encouraged to compete in the Ford/AAA skills contest.
Courses Which Will Be Helpful
Students need not have any prior experience in auto repair, however, a mechanical aptitude is helpful. Courses that are helpful, but not required, before enrolling in Automotive Technology are: Math and Algebra, Geometry, English, and Sciences
Program Completion Incentives
- Career Passport – with documented skills
- ASE Certification Opportunity
- Articulation with two- and four-year colleges
As an Automotive Tech Prep student, you will be a member of the SkillsUSA organization. SkillsUSA is a student-oriented organization designed to expand your citizenship, leadership, teamwork, and employability skills. As a member, you will be encouraged to participate in competitive events at the local, district, state, and national levels in both leadership and occupational skills.
In addition to SkillsUSA at Millstream Career Center, you may participate in many student activities at your home school such as music, sports, and club activities.
Career Opportunities
- Automotive Technician
- Parts Technician
- Automotive Management
- Entrepreneurship
- Automotive Specialist
- Lubrication Specialist
- Heating and A/C Specialist
- Engine Specialist
- Brake Specialist
- Towing & Recovery Specialist
- Ag/Diesel Technician
- Truck/Diesel Technician
- Auto/Truck Body Technician
- Automotive Educator
Career-Based Opportunities
Students who exhibit knowledge and skills in the Automotive Tech Prep program and meet the requirements for early placement may participate in early placement in a related field during the second semester of their senior year.
Salary Information
Salary varies with the employer’s location and industry.
Nationally, the median wage for an automobile technician is $21.02 per hour. Half of all technicians earn between $19.57 and $32.19 per hour.
In Ohio, the median wage for automobile technicians is $18.09 per hour.
*Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2018