AUTO/LIGHT DIESEL TECHNOLOGY

  Instructors, Anthony Gibbons and Scott Dalby

 

Course Description
The Auto/Light Diesel Technology Program is a clustered program where students move throughout the auto/diesel areas repairing all types of vehicles, including passenger cars, light and heavy duty trucks, vans, station wagons, and two- and four-wheel drive vehicles.

Students interested in the Auto/Diesel Technology program need to have basic skills in reading, writing, math, science, and listening/speaking skills. The students also need to develop thinking skills that include creative thinking, problem solving, reasoning, plus personal management and career awareness.

Students selecting the Automotive Technology program will be assigned to one of the following:  Auto Technology or Diesel.  While enrolled in the three-year program of Auto Technology, students experience both classroom and shop-related activities in the basics of gasoline and diesel engines, emission systems, brake systems, steering and suspension systems, transmissions (automatic and standard), electrical systems, fuel systems, differentials, and drive lines. Work will be completed in all units in accordance with automotive manuals, factory specifications, and competency-based education plans.  Shop activities will be performed on actual vehicles so that students may learn to determine malfunctions and make repairs and/or adjustments.  These hands-on experiences are necessary for students to acquire sufficient knowledge to gain entry-level employment in the automotive field, and/or continue their training at a postsecondary level.   During their senior year, students will enroll in the Pennsylvania State Inspection Mechanic Certification Program   Senior students will, under the supervision of the Cooperative Education Department, have the opportunity to enter the work experience program if all requirements are met.

Students will be clustered in all three years of the Automotive Technology Program. Ninth graders enrolled in the program will be evaluated from year to year to determine on which level they are to be placed.

Prerequisites:  Reading skills, Writing skills, Applied Math

Appropriate Occupations
Working conditions in the automotive industry are usually fair to excellent (depending on the service garage). Benefits often include health insurance, paid vacations, uniforms, factory training, and pension plans (optional).

 Employers of Former Graduates:

Job Outlook is excellent.

Further Education Opportunities