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Advanced Career Education Center at Hermitage

Automotive Technology

Automotive Technology

 

  • New in 2026–2027: Program-specific course content will be weighted as Honors-level coursework. See Program Coursework below for more details.

    Prerequisites: Automotive Technology Program

    • Must be a Junior

  • This two-year Automotive Technology program prepares students for future study and careers in automotive repair and related transportation fields. Instruction combines technical coursework with extensive hands-on practice, allowing students to develop foundational knowledge of vehicle systems, diagnostics, maintenance, and repair procedures used in modern automotive shops.

  • This is a physically demanding, shop-based course. Students are active daily and should expect extended standing, bending, kneeling, lifting, pushing, pulling, and working in tight or awkward positions under and around vehicles. Instruction regularly involves the use of hand tools, power tools, lifts, and diagnostic equipment. Students must be comfortable working with grease, oil, solvents, and mechanical fluids and following strict safety procedures at all times.

  • Students train in a real automotive shop environment designed to reflect current industry practices. Learning focuses on applying technical skills in practical situations, following standard repair procedures, using professional-grade equipment, and understanding workplace expectations found in automotive service facilities. These experiences emphasize responsibility, safety, teamwork, and problem-solving in a hands-on setting.

  • Students are expected to participate in SkillsUSA, a national career and technical student organization that emphasizes leadership, teamwork, professionalism, and technical skill development within the skilled trades.

    In addition to earning course credit, students will work toward industry-recognized credentials, including:

    These credentials allow students to graduate with documented skills, certifications, and career preparation-not just a grade.

  • This program operates like a professional automotive workplace. Students are expected to purchase specific work attire for daily wear when attending classes:

    • Wear required work attire daily
    • Using appropriate safety equipment as directed
    • Display a visible ID badge at all times
    • Demonstrate professional behavior, punctuality, accountability, and respectful communication

    Clothing may become stained or damaged during normal shop activities.

    Work attire sample images appear in the image carousel below

    An informational graphic titled AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGIES shows two workers in standard uniforms with labeled safety gear and apparel.

Program Coursework

2 years (6 HS credits) – Advanced Career Education (ACE) Center at Hermitage( Alternate Programs: Auto Body and Motorsports located at ACE Virginia Randolph)

This program is designed to be completed in two years during the 11th and 12th grades.

Year 1 (Junior Year)

Automotive Technology I Honors ( 1 credit ) : In this course, students perform basic functions in engine repair, automatic transmission and transaxle, manual drive train and axles, suspension and steering systems, and brakes. Students who successfully complete the automotive technology program may be eligible to take the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Student Certification examination. The ASE Student Certification is the first step in building a career as an automotive service professional.

Automotive Technology II Honors ( 2 credits ) : In this course, students perform basic functions in engine repair, automatic transmission and transaxle, manual drive train and axles, suspension and steering systems, and brakes. Students who successfully complete the automotive technology program may be eligible to take the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Student Certification examination. The ASE Student Certification is the first step in building a career as an automotive service professional.

Year 2 (Senior Year)

Automotive Technology III Honors  ( 2 credits ) :This course prepares students to perform automotive diagnosis and repairs in the following areas: engine repair, cooling systems, transmission and transaxle, manual drive trains and axles, suspension and steering, wheel and tire, brakes, electrical/electronic systems, HVAC, and engine performance. Students are provided with more advanced instruction in all systems as they prepare for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification examinations. The Automotive Technology program provides the fundamental skills necessary to succeed in an ever-changing and challenging industry as an automotive technician.

Career Strategies  ( 1 credit ) : Career Strategies consists of an in-depth study of career clusters and pathways through a variety of investigative activities. Students analyze career assessment results, compare various educational options, and develop or revise a plan related to their academic and career-related goals.

Dual Enrollment Notes

  • (OPTIONAL) Six transferable college credits through our partnership with Reynolds Community College may be offered.
  • Offerings are tentative and confirmed each semester.

Instructors