Automotive Services Technology
With more sophisticated technology as a part of today’s automotive engines and systems, and cars being built to last longer than ever before, the need for trained automotive service technicians is as strong as ever. Jobs for automotive service technicians are expected to grow at a 9% rate over the next 10 years. Graduates from this program will have the training, certifications, and a personal portfolio to prepare for job interviews to give them a competitive advantage over other applicants.
Program Description
Students work in teams in a shop setting to learn to diagnose and repair automotive steering and suspension systems, brake and electrical systems, and engine performance problems. Students take part in SkillsUSA leadership events and second-year students become team leaders. Students can earn several Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certifications as part of the coursework.
To Be Successful
Students in this program are energetic, hardworking, industrious, and can manage their time wisely. Students must be self-motivated with a dedication to complete assigned tasks. They must possess the ability to work in teams and to learn computer skills to help them do research on the internet.
Student Organization
SkillsUSA
Program Success Indicators
Academic
- Write legibly
- Communicate effectively using oral and written expression
- Add, subtract, multiply, and divide whole numbers
- Work with fractions, decimals, and metric system
- Basic computer, keyboarding, and internet skills
Interpersonal
- Follow verbal and written instructions
- Positive attitude
- Work well with others (teamwork)
- Responsible for own actions (safety)
- Adhere to professional standards of dress and behavior
- Good work ethic and good, dependable attendance
- Motivated
- Accept constructive criticism from instructors and mentor technicians
- Complete assigned work, meet deadlines, prioritize tasks
Program Specific
- Enjoy working on vehicles
- Work with gasoline, oils, grease solvents, and fumes
- Read industry-standard materials including manuals, guidebooks, and diagnostic reports
- Willing to get your hands and clothing dirty
- Work under a range of environments, from hot to cold, rain to snow
- Work for extended periods of time in various positions
- Work with heavy items
- Obtain a driver's license
- Work with industry-related tools and equipment
Related Careers
Note: Additional education may be required.
- Service Technician
- Diesel Mechanic
- Automotive/Mechanical Parts Specialist
- Engineer
High School Credit*
*The LISD TECH Center recommends the academic credit listed. Credit can only be awarded by local districts. The academic credit listed below is for completion of 2 years.
- 1.0 4th Math
- 1.0 Online Learning Experience
- 1.0 3rd Science (in lieu of)
- 1.0 World Languages (in lieu of)
- 1.0 Visual, Performing, & Applied Arts
College Credit Opportunities*
*College credit can only be awarded by the college or university. Certain requirements must be met outside of completing the program.
- Baker College
- Davenport University
- Jackson College
- Siena Heights University
- University of Northwestern Ohio
- Washtenaw Community College
Certification Opportunities
- Ford Motor Co. Automotive Career Exploration (ACE)
- GM Service Technician Education Program (STEP)
- Mitchell 1 ProDemand
- Safety & Pollution Prevention
- Snap-On Multimeter
- State certificate
- YouScience exams
Instructor
Mark Lafollette has nearly 40 years’ experience as a technician, service manager, and business owner in the automobile and heavy equipment industries. Mark is also an auto and medium/heavy truck and master ASE technician. He has taught secondary, college and adult education classes at the LISD TECH Center since 2006. The Onsted High School graduate received his Bachelor’s degree from Siena Heights University and his Master’s degree in Career Technical Education from Western Michigan University.
Teacher Assistant
Kyle Lafollette is a graduate of Onsted High School and an alumni of the Automotive Services Technology program at the TECH Center. He has attended the automotive program at Jackson College and has more than eight years of experience working in the automotive field. Kyle has six Automotive Service Excellence certifications and is a State of Michigan licensed technician in five automotive repair areas. He enjoys spending time working in the family business and on vintage tractors and automobiles. Kyle has been working in the Automotive Services Technology program since 2010 and became a full-time teacher assistant in 2013.
