Automotive & EV Technician

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of operation, emphasizing the scientific principles and technological advancements behind internal combustion engines. Students will study the mechanical systems, fluid dynamics, and thermodynamic processes that drive engine functionality. Through hands-on experience and diagnostic techniques, students will apply STEM-based problem-solving methods to identify and resolve engine mechanical issues. The curriculum also fosters critical thinking and technical proficiency, preparing students to understand and work with modern automotive technologies.

Upon completion of this course, students will have learned the technology principles of automotive heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) through diagnosis and service of HVAC systems and sub systems, refrigerant systems and electronic climate control systems. Students will have learned to ethically communicate with consumers through HVAC work orders, diagnosis and billing for consumer satisfaction. Theory and application of principles include but are not limited to refrigerant/refrigerant oil chemistry, compliant refrigeration environmental techniques, and thermal energy and heat transfer.

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to explain and demonstrate through course and lab work an understanding of electrical theory and the ability to use Quantitative principles in electricity. Topics rooted in natural and physical sciences include but are not limited to Ohm’s law, Watt’s law, operations and properties of electrical circuits and components, magnetism/ electromagnetism, and resistance.

Upon completion of this course, students will have learned to diagnose and service electrical circuits, batteries and starting/charging systems through physical science education using quantitative principles in electricity. Topics rooted in natural and physical sciences include but are not limited to Ohm’s law, Watt’s law, operations and properties of electrical circuits and components, magnetism/ electromagnetism, and battery chemistry.

Upon completion, students will apply their knowledge of diagnostic tools and wiring diagrams to navigate vehicle electrical systems and identify problems. The course covers troubleshooting sensors, circuits, and control units and performing systematic tests to ensure everything works properly. By the end, students will be able to identify, diagnose and repair electrical components on vehicles. Additionally, the student will receive an introduction to vehicle networking.

This course introduces students to the basics of Network systems, which are widely used in vehicle systems. Students will learn the fundamentals of network bus technology, its applications, and how to design and troubleshoot simple networks. Combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on activities to ensure a comprehensive understanding.

Students troubleshoot and repair rear axle noise and vibration complaints, properly diagnose limited slip and locking differential concerns and properly select and use specialty tools associated with driveline repairs. Students also troubleshoot and repair 4WD and AWD systems and components and diagnose and repair longitudinal and transverse manual transmissions/transaxle complaints associated with clutch, shifter mechanisms, synchronizers, final drive, and half shaft assemblies.

Upon completion of this course, students will have learned the technology principles of automotive heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) through diagnosis and service of HVAC systems and sub systems, refrigerant systems and electronic climate control systems. Students will have learned to ethically communicate with consumers through HVAC work orders, diagnosis and billing for consumer satisfaction. Theory and application of principles include but are not limited to refrigerant/refrigerant oil chemistry, compliant refrigeration environmental techniques, and thermal energy and heat transfer.

Upon completion of this course, students will have learned about the function, operation, and diagnosis of electrical and electronic devices that support vehicle body electrical systems. Students will diagnose and service vehicles with concerns related to malfunctions of supplemental restraints systems; entertainment systems; and popular electronic safety, comfort and convenience systems. Students will study electronic components such as modules, gateway (network security), network, and human interface. Students will gain experience in the use of technology and troubleshooting procedures. Students will learn vehicle electrical schematics and perform component and circuit testing to isolate problems. Students will perform tasks related to the inspection and diagnosis of electrical and electronic systems using a variety of test equipment, including digital multimeters, oscilloscopes, and diagnostic scan tools.

Upon completing this course, students will receive in-depth training on diagnosing, servicing, and enhancing modern suspension and steering systems. Students will learn how to disassemble independent suspension systems, perform OEM alignments, and remove steering columns equipped with airbag systems. The course also covers diagnosing and servicing power steering assist systems, including electronically controlled systems and calibrating Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).

In this course, students diagnose and service electronic automatic transmission and transaxle concerns related to electronic control systems faults and analyze external hydraulic system diagnosis using proper equipment. Students also analyze torque converter and clutch slip diagnosis to accurately distinguish between engine performance and transmission-related faults. In addition, students will also properly perform in-depth inspection and testing to identify root cause of internal failures on electronic automatic transmissions and transaxles.

Upon completion of this course, students diagnose and service automobiles with driveability concerns related to malfunctions within computer-controlled fuel injection, forced induction, variable camshaft timing and lift, ignition, and emission control systems.

Upon completing this course, students will have the skills to diagnose and enhance engine performance while maintaining emissions compliance. Students will learn to use 5-gas testing and a dynamometer 
to verify emission standards and evaluate performance improvements. The course covers the effects of high-performance engine components compared to stock engines and the necessary modifications 
for turbocharging, including intercoolers, blow-off valves, and wastegates. Participants will also explore high-performance ignition systems, boost control, and powertrain management systems. The course concludes with hands-on training in basic PCM modifications to boost vehicle performance and support custom modifications.

In this course, students learn theory, diagnosis, and repair information necessary to safely and effectively service hybrid vehicles and alternative fuels systems and technology. Students learn the principles of service advising and how they fit into service operations. They learn written and verbal communication standards typical of a professional dealership environment in providing customer service, questioning techniques, efficient diagnosis of customer concerns, report completion, organization and co-worker/management interaction skills.

This course focuses on Battery Electrical Vehicle (BEV) operation with emphasis on critical safety standards, measures, and understanding of how-to diagnosis, repair, test, and remove components on high-voltage vehicles. Students will learn about different types of electric vehicles, electric vehicle safety, electrical and electronic systems, network operations and diagnosis, high-voltage components and operations, high-voltage battery service and BEV subsystems. 

This capstone course is designed to provide a comprehensive assessment and validation of the practical skills and theoretical knowledge essential for an entry-level automotive technician. The curriculum focuses on core competencies including workshop safety, proper vehicle lifting techniques, routine maintenance procedures (with emphasis on oil changes, tire services, and basic brake inspection), foundational automotive electrical system diagnosis, an introduction to wheel alignment principles, and awareness of Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS). Students will apply their accumulated knowledge through hands-on lab work and practical scenario-based assessments.