Auto Pros Academy:
Future Auto Techs
Middle School STEM Program Policy
1. Program Overview:
The Auto Pros Academy Future Auto Techs Middle School STEM Program is a free
opportunity for middle school students interested in automotive
repair careers. The program runs every Monday from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM and Friday from 2:15 pm to 4:15 pm,
providing a head start for those considering attending Auto Pros Academy
for the Automotive Engineering & Technology Prep Program (Freshman/Sophomore) in high school.
2. Program Structure and Funding
Free program funded by generous grants and sponsors Students work in teams of 5 Teams and individuals are graded on the performance of team projects
3. Industry Context and Program Mission
There is a critical nationwide shortage of automotive technicians.
Our STEM program aims to address this gap by inspiring students to view
automotive technology as a career, not just a job. Key points include:
The automotive industry needs approximately 76,000 new technicians
annually * There's an annual shortage of around 39,000 automotive
technicians * By 2025, demand for new automotive technicians is
estimated to reach 797,530 * The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects
67,800 automotive service technician openings each year through 2033
Our program goes beyond teaching skills—we aim to:
Address industry workforce gaps Challenge outdated perceptions of automotive careers Provide early exposure to sophisticated automotive technologies Create a pipeline of motivated, skilled future technicians
4. Admission and Selection
Open to all middle school students with a strong interest in automotive technology Students must complete an application demonstrating their interest and motivation Selection is based on first come first service, applications are date and time-stamped. Once classes are full, any other applicants will be placed on a waiting list.
5. Program Schedule
Sessions are held every Monday from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM at the Lancaster community center Sessions are held every Friday from 2:15 pm to 4:15 pm at Hillview Middle School The program follows the academic school year calendar Students are expected to commit to the full program duration
6. Attendance and Participation
Regular attendance is mandatory; 3 unexcused absences are subject to removal from the program Students must maintain at least 80% attendance to complete the program Active participation in all activities and discussions is required
7. Curriculum Focus
Automotive technology fundamentals STEM principles applied to automotive systems Hands-on projects and experiments related to car mechanics Wire diagram interpretation for car diagnostics California Smog Program education Exposure to clean vehicle technologies Emphasis on teamwork skills
8. Safety Protocols
Mandatory safety orientation before hands-on activities, scissors, glue, and paint. Strict adherence to all safety instructions given by instructors
9. Behavior Expectations
Respectful conduct towards instructors, guests, and fellow students Zero tolerance for disruptive behavior Compliance with all program rules and guidelines
10. Equipment and Materials
Proper use and care of all provided equipment and materials Students may be held responsible for intentional damage
11. Academic Integrity
Original work required for all projects and assignments Plagiarism and cheating are grounds for dismissal from the program
12. Technology Use
Personal devices are allowed only for program-related activities during sessions Inappropriate use of technology may result in disciplinary action
13. Parent/Guardian Involvement
Parents/guardians are encouraged to attend program orientation and final showcase Regular updates on student progress will be provided 3 Quarterly Parent surveys to track students' progress at home
14. Accommodations
Special needs accommodations are available upon request to the program coordinator
15. Program Completion and Career Pathway
Certificate of completion awarded to students fulfilling all program requirements Successful graduates of the middle school STEM program will receive automatic acceptance into the Auto Pros Academy high school programs Preparation for future ASE certifications Students are on their way to becoming automotive technicians
16. Instructor Expertise
Head instructor is a Certified ASE Master Technician with over 40 years of experience Owns Auto Pros repair shop, providing real-world industry experience Holds a degree in Engineering Experience at Ford in the Research and Development Department
17. Continuous Improvement
Feedback from students, parents, and instructors will be regularly collected Program curriculum and policies are subject to annual review and updates
18. Inclusive Recruitment Statement
Auto Pros Academy is committed to creating an inclusive STEM program
that welcomes students from all backgrounds. While our program is open
to all students, we have a specific focus on encouraging young women to
apply to the automotive repair industry.
19. Integrated STEM Curriculum
Our program integrates all four STEM disciplines (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) through:
Applied physics and chemistry in automotive systems Technology integration in modern vehicle diagnostics Engineering principles in automotive design and repair Mathematical applications in performance metrics and diagnostics
20. Real-World Connections
Students will connect their learning to real-world experiences through:
Case studies of current automotive industry challenges Guest lectures from working professionals Hands-on projects mirroring real workplace scenarios
21. Innovative Technology Use
Our program leverages cutting-edge technology to enhance learning:
Use of professional-grade wire diagram parts and instructions
22. Industry Partnerships
We collaborate with local businesses and higher education institutions to provide:
Field trips to automotive facilities Mentorship opportunities with industry professionals Access to state-of-the-art equipment and resources
23. Professional Development
Our instructors receive ongoing training and support through:
Regular workshops on the latest automotive technologies Collaboration with industry experts Opportunities to attend relevant conferences and seminars
24. Assessment and Continuous Improvement
Pre- and post-program assessments will be conducted to measure student progress and program effectiveness Regular student performance evaluations throughout the program Feedback collection from students, parents, and industry partners Annual curriculum review and update based on industry trends
25. Flexible Administration
Our program structure allows for innovation and adaptability:
Regular review of program structure and content Ability to incorporate emerging technologies and practices Responsiveness to student and industry feedback
26. STEM-Rich Informal Experiences
Learning opportunities extend beyond the classroom through:
Participation in local STEM fairs and competitions Automotive-themed field trips and events Student-led projects and presentations
27. Transportation
Transportation is not provided for the program Students and families are responsible for their transportation to and from program sessions and field trips
28. Field Trips and Real-World Experience
Several field trips will be organized to Auto Pros repair shop, allowing students to observe a working automotive business firsthand
29. Career Exploration
The program will feature a dedicated class on automotive industry careers, including but not limited to:
Service Writer Foreman Estimator Technician Manager General Manager
This comprehensive overview exposes students to the diverse career
paths available in automotive repair beyond just technician roles.
