Pathway
Auto Technician
Automotive Technician youth apprentices gain skills related to the preventative maintenance and repair of automobiles and light trucks. Youth apprentices are immersed in the evolving automotive technology and integrated systems. Apprentices must adhere to industry safety and security standards.
Length of Apprenticeship: One or two years

Job Competencies
Automotive Technician youth apprentices work with a job site mentor to demonstrate the following competencies. Youth apprentices must complete the NINE Competencies in Year 1. Youth apprentices must complete NINE competencies in Year 2. Employers can substitute up to 1 competency per year with other occupationally appropriate skills. Substitutions must be added to the competency list for assessment. Note that where necessary, skills can be simulated.
-
Year 1 Competencies
- Operate tools and equipment safely
- Maintain a clean and organized work area
- Process work order
- Change oil and filter
- Assist with the diagnosis of concern or issue
- Identify vehicle parts
- Rotate tires
- Service a 12V battery
- Perform a multipoint vehicle inspection
Year 2 Competencies
- Perform preventative maintenance on cooling systems
- Inspect transmission and transaxle performance
- Perform preventative maintenance on Drivetrain
- Perform preventative maintenance on steering and suspension
- Perform preventative maintenance on fuel systems
- Perform preventative maintenance on vehicle brakes
- Perform preventative maintenance on electrical systems
- Run tests on cylinder head and valve train systems
- Perform preventative maintenance on heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems
Related Instruction
Students must enroll in 1 High School Credit or 3 College Credits of related instruction each year they participate in the Youth Apprenticeship program.
Purpose of Related Instruction
The purpose of choosing a related instruction course is to ensure students are learning technical and academic skills that support the student's ability to perform their work tasks. This should be done concurrently with on-the-job training to make relevant connections between learning competencies and work.
Choosing Related Instruction
You will collaborate with your YA Coordinator and School Counselor to determine the most appropriate option for related instruction. A course within your high school directly related to the career pathway is ideal, especially if dual credits and/or hours related to a potential registered apprenticeship are offered.
If there is not a directly related course in your school district, related instruction in the same career cluster is also acceptable.
If there is not a course within that career cluster in your school district, you may request to register for a college course through the Start College Now program with a local technical college, Early College Credit from a local university, or from an alternative provider such as Destinations Career Academy.
-
- Small Engines
- Welding
- Electronics
- Auto Mechanics
-
- Maintenance and Light Repair
- Four Cycle Small Engines
- Engine Performance
- Auto Service Operations
- Transportation Service Operations
- Intro to Diesel Technology
- Auto Servicing Welding
-
- Basic Equipment Fundamentals
- Mobile Equipment Maintenance
- Basic Grade & Construction Math
- CDL Prep
Post Secondary
There are numerous opportunities to continue your education after completing the Youth Apprenticeship program.
Registered Apprenticeships
The Auto Technician pathway is not currently available.