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 40 middle school students interested in automotive repair careers. The program runs every Friday from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM, providing a head start for those considering attending Auto Pros Academy for juniors in high school.
2. Program Structure and Funding
Free program funded by generous grants and sponsors
40 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Challenge outdated perceptions of automotive careers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 and interview demonstrating their interest and motivation
Selection based on a genuine interest in automotive careers and potential for future enrollment in Auto Pros Academy High school program
5. Program Schedule
Sessions held every Friday from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM
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
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
Proper safety equipment must be worn at all times in workshop areas
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
14. Accommodations
Special needs accommodations available upon request to 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 juniors program
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 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 diagnostic tools
Virtual reality simulations for complex system understanding
Online resources for extended learning
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.
