What is the Automotive Technology program?

This fast-paced and challenging program is certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) to train students to service, diagnose, and repair today's sophisticated vehicles.  Students learn skills at high standards set by business and industry and practice these skills in local auto dealerships and independent repair facilities.  Students who successfully complete the program are prepared to take Michigan's automotive technician certification examination.

It can be your ticket to a great job with big bucks. It's offered at the Saginaw Career Complex for students like you who want to learn real skills - in the classroom and on the job - and get a head start on a career.

Why should I take Automotive Technology?

Classes at the Saginaw Career Complex are different than those offered at your home high school. You learn by doing—not just reading, listening, and memorizing. And you learn out in the real world, on-the-job, with real people.

The Saginaw Career Complex Automotive Technology program is certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). This means that it meets the tough standards set by the automotive industry and has earned the industry's most respected credential.

Students who successfully complete our program are prepared to take Michigan's automotive technician certification examinations.

You will also earn a competency certificate in Automotive Technology from the Saginaw Career Complex, which says you've learned actual job skills at high standards set by business and industry. Your parents will love it. So will colleges and employers.

Students have the opportunity to be part of Automotive YES (AYES), which is a dynamic partnership among automotive manufacturers, participating automotive dealers, and selected high schools/career centers.  The AYES program is designed to prepare students for entry-level career positions or advanced studies in automotive technology.  Because the Complex has met the high standards to be part of Automotive YES, students in AYES will develop both technical and employability skills, which will broaden their career opportunities.

WHAT will I learn in Automotive Technology?

Today's sophisticated automobiles require a new, higher level of knowledge, including high tech diagnostics and electronics. Today's cars require a "technician" with a broad range of skills.

You will learn:
• To diagnose problems involving a car's:
– Electrical/electronic systems
– Engine performance
– Brakes
– Suspension and steering
• General mechanical skills and safe work practices
• To apply skill in math, communication, and technology to solve practical problems encountered in real-world experiences
• To work as a productive member of a team
• Professionalism, goal setting, work ethic, conflict resolution, and the ability to cope with change

You will learn these skills in a clean, well-equipped, up-to-date automotive lab. You will also learn and practice skills in real work environments.

For more specific areas of study click here to learn more about the curriculum.

WHAT are my job prospects?

The industry needs qualified, well-trained auto technicians. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), today there is only one auto technician available to service every 235 of the 122 million cars on the American roads. The AAA estimates that a million more certified auto technicians are needed.

Auto service technicians perform all types of repair work, while others specialize. Those who choose to specialize in the more technical aspects of auto service, such as those offered at the Saginaw Career Complex, earn higher salaries.

WHERE can I go after completing the program?

Your training in the Automotive Technology program gives you several exciting options:

• Entry-level employment - Students might start at a dealership, independent repair shop, or fleet maintenance shop.
• Entrepreneurship - Or, students might open up their own business.
• Continued Education - Students may continue their education with the advantage of articulating college credits at the same time they are earning their high school diploma, and they don't have to pay for it! After successfully completing the program, students may articulate credits at Delta College, Ferris State University, and Northwestern College. The articulation process will give students a head start on their post-secondary education, as well as save them a considerable sum of money. In addition, students are also ready to enter industry/employer-sponsored training programs.

Students are also ready to enter industry/employer-sponsored training programs such as G.M.'s ASEP, Ford's ASET, and Chrysler's program.

WHO is the teacher?

Steve Johnson is a state licensed teacher with full vocational authorization. He is also ASE Certified in the specialty training areas of brakes, electrical/electronic systems, engine performance, and suspension and steering.

In other words, he knows his stuff and is eager to share his knowledge with you.

WHAT are the admission requirements?

Students admitted to the Automotive Technology program at the Saginaw Career Complex must:

• Have an interest in a career as an auto technician
  
• Be a high school junior or senior
  
• Be on track for high school graduation
  
• Have good attendance habits
  
• Be willing to attend the Saginaw Career Complex for half of the school day and participate in work-based learning experiences

WHAT does it cost?

Nothing! Eligible high school students may attend free of charge.

HOW do I enroll?

You can enroll by completing just a few easy steps. Click here to get started:

ENROLL NOW