Auto Pros Academy
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About Us

Auto Pros Academy was built on the foundation of a 41-year automotive repair business serving Lancaster, California. We understand the industry because we’ve lived it — and that real-world experience shapes everything we teach.

Our Mission

Changing Lives Through Automotive Education

Educate young people—especially those from underserved communities—to build successful, high-demand careers in automotive technology. We do this by providing hands-on training, real-world experience, and direct pathways from middle school exploration to paid apprenticeships and job placement.


Our Vision

A future where every student, regardless of background, has the skills, confidence, and opportunity to thrive in the automotive industry—fueling local economies and transforming lives through education, mentorship, and meaningful work.

Why Choose Us?

We help students turn curiosity about cars into real-world skills and great careers.
Our Candid Profile

Expert Instruction

  • Hands-on training from day one: Learn by doing, not just by watching. Clear path from middle school to career: Start as early as 12. Graduate ready for a paid apprenticeship and a high demand career.

  • Taught by experts: Learn from a Certified ASE Master Technician with 40+ years of experience.

  • Guaranteed real shop experience: Get out of the classroom and into a working auto shop.

  • Direct connection to jobs: Our nationwide network helps you land your first job fast.

Who We Serve

  • Middle and high school students (ages 11–18) in Lancaster & Antelope Valley

  • Especially those who want a hands-on, high-paying career without college debt

Our Programs: Simple Steps to Success

1. Middle School STEM Program: Fun, after-school activities to spark interest and build basic skills

2. High School Prep & Advanced: Step-by-step training, real shop work, and test prep for ASE certifications

3. Paid Apprenticeship: Earn money while you learn, with personal mentorship from industry pros

4. Job Placement: We help you get hired—locally or nationwide

Why Now?

Auto repair jobs are growing. Skilled techs are in demand. You can earn a great living—no four-year degree required.

Key U.S. Technician Shortage Stats

  • Projected Shortage Size: The U.S. is on track for a shortage of 642,000 technicians by 2024 if current trends persist.

  • Current Workforce & Training: The U.S. automotive technician workforce reached 794,600 in 2023, up 5% from pre-pandemic levels.

  • Only 48,000 techs completed training programs in 2020, while demand nearly doubled from 136,503 in 2020 to 258,000 in 2021.
Meet the team 
Get to know the people who make Auto Pros Academy possible. We’re a team of experienced professionals, passionate educators, and community leaders dedicated to helping students succeed in the automotive industry.

Danci Gutierrez 


Danci Gutierrez – Executive Director & Founder. Danci started Auto Pros Academy to give every student a real chance at a great career, especially those who might otherwise be left out. With 30+ years in business, sales, and community work, she leads with heart and vision. Danci’s mission: make sure every student who puts in the work gets the support they need to succeed—no matter where they start.

Rudy Gutierrez

Rudy Gutierrez – Head Instructor. Rudy is a Certified ASE Master Technician with over 40 years of hands-on experience and a degree in engineering. He’s worked in research and development at Ford, run his own shop, and built a reputation for fixing the toughest problems. Rudy believes in teaching both the technical skills and the integrity needed to thrive in the industry. His motto: “Leave people better than you found them.”

Anthony Pelayo

Instructor & General Manager. Anthony brings over 10 years in automotive management, training, and compliance. He’s passionate about preparing students for both the technical and business sides of the industry. Anthony’s approach: teach real-world skills and mentor students to become both skilled techs and ethical professionals. His philosophy: “Bring me heart, I’ll supply the skills—together we’ll craft greatness.”

Aleythia Suarez

Aleythia Suarez – Executive Assistant & Social Media Coordinator. Aleythia keeps the Academy running smoothly and ensures our story reaches the community. With a strong background in customer service and team leadership, she’s committed to empowering youth and building connections. Her motto: “Be the person who makes things happen.”
Our Programs Contact US

What We Do

We provide free, practical automotive education for middle and high school students in Lancaster and the Antelope Valley. Our programs connect classroom learning with real shop experience, mentorship, and direct job placement support.

  • Start early: Our after-school STEM program for middle schoolers sparks curiosity and builds confidence.

  • Skill up: High school students get advanced training, hands-on shop time, and prep for ASE certifications.

  • Earn and learn: Graduates move into paid apprenticeships, working alongside experienced pros.

  • Get hired: We help students land jobs—locally and nationwide—so they can start earning right away.

Why We’re Different

  • 100% tuition-free. No financial barriers.

  • Focused on underserved youth and increasing diversity in the automotive industry, especially for young women.

  • Led by a Certified ASE Master Technician and a team with decades of real-world experience.

  • Our seamless pathway takes students from first spark to first paycheck.

 Our Story

Founded in 2025 by Danci Gutierrez, Auto Pros Academy was created to fill a gap: local schools had dropped auto shop programs, and the nation faces a critical shortage of skilled technicians. Danci’s vision—backed by 30+ years in business and a deep commitment to youth empowerment—brought together educators, industry leaders, and community partners to build a program that truly changes lives.

 Our Commitment

We’re here to support every student who’s ready to put in the work. With expert instruction, a safe and supportive environment, and a direct path to a real career, we’re building the next generation of skilled, ethical, and confident automotive professionals.
Our Programs

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common questions about our program and its benefits.

What age group can enroll in the academy?

The Auto Pros Academy is designed for middle school and high school students aged 11 to 18. Middle school students are instructed in our Automotive STEM program to prepare them for our high school curriculum.

What school has the after-school program?

The Future Auto Techs Middle School STEM Program is proudly being piloted at Hillview Middle School, thanks to the wonderful support of Westside Union School District. We are grateful for their partnership and for providing a dedicated classroom for our innovative, hands-on after-school program.

What is the enrollment process?

Interested students can apply online through our website or contact us directly for guidance on how to enroll.

Is there a fee to attend the academy? 

No, there is no fee to attend the academy. As a non-profit organization, we are committed to providing educational opportunities for youth in our community who want to pursue a career in the automotive industry.

Why do we teach in teams of 5?

Teamwork builds stronger skills and deeper understanding. By working in teams of 5, students learn from each other, tackle real-world problems, and develop the collaboration and communication essential for STEM and future careers, especially in the automotive industry. Studies show this approach is especially effective for middle school students, leading to higher engagement and better learning outcomes.

What skills will students learn at Auto Pros Academy?

Students will learn essential automotive repair skills, diagnostic techniques, and hands-on experience under professional guidance.

What will I learn in the Future Auto Techs Middle School STEM Program?

You’ll dive into 15 hands-on automotive repair STEM projects, exploring engineering, technology, and real-world problem-solving. Each project is designed to spark creativity while building skills in teamwork, design, and innovation. You’ll discover how cars work, tackle real repair challenges, and learn about exciting careers.

Who teaches the courses?

Courses are led by our head instructor, a Certified ASE Master Technician with over 40 years of industry experience.

How will I be graded in the program?

In the Future Auto Techs Middle School STEM Program, you aren’t graded individually. Instead, your team of 5 students earns points together for each project, based on creativity, concept, and design. At the end of the school year, the top three teams with the most points are recognized as first, second, and third place winners.

How can I contact Auto Pros Academy for more information?

You can reach us at 661-414-7070 or email us at contact@auto-pros-academy.org for more inquiries.

  • Who should I contact with questions?
    Contact Auto Pros Academy directly—they will be happy to help.

  • Do students need to bring any supplies?
    All materials and tools will be provided.

  • What if a student misses a session?
    There are no makeup sessions; students will need to rely on their teammates to fill them in on what they missed.

Join Us Today!

Discover the exciting world of automotive repair with Auto Pros Academy. Empower young minds, bridge the skilled technician gap, and shape the future of the automotive industry together.  Apply now, classes start in the fall of 2026. 
Join Us Today