David Gerhardt, Instructor
Check out Mr. Gerhardt's teacher website by clicking here.
The mission of this program is to provide instruction in the skills and knowledge to secure employment in the automotive industry. Instruction in in the diagnosis and repair of brake systems, steering and suspension systems, engine repair, auto electricity, electrical systems, basic fuel and ignition systems, computer controls, and emission systems is included.
Career Opportunities in Automotive Technology
Professional technicians can earn up to $130,000 per year depending on abilities, certifications and location. Most entry-level technicians start in the $10-$16 per hour range and Master Technicians will make $17-$36+ per hour depending on location and the skill of the technician.
The MCATC automotive program is a certified Automotive Training Program by the National Automotive Technician Education Foundation (NATEF). David Gerhardt, the instructor, is certified as a Master Automotive Technician, Master Medium/Heavy Truck Technician, and an Advanced Level Specialist through the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).
COURSES OFFERED
Brake Systems (AUT 110/111)
Credit: 1
Grade Level: 10-12
This course involves the operational theory and application of hydraulic and anti-lock brake systems; disc and drum brakes are discussed. This course develops skills in the diagnosis and repair of braking systems. This course is offered as dual credit with KCTCS for grades 11-12.
Student must furnish safety glasses.
SUSPENSION AND STEERING/LAB (AUT160/161)
Credit: 1
Grade Level: 10-12
This course presents the automotive suspension system, the diagnosing of suspension problems, identifying components, recognizing tire wear problems, wheel balancing and the use of alignment equipment. This course develops skill in the diagnosis and repair of automotive suspension systems, wheel alignment, and wheel balancing. This course is offered as dual credit with KCTCS for grades 11-12.
Student must furnish safety glasses.
Basic Auto Electricity (ADX120/121)
Credit: 1
Grade Level: 10-12
Prerequisite: Brakes or Steering & Suspension and
Instructor Approval
This course introduces the student to the principles, theories, and concepts of the automotive electrical system that includes unique diagramming, coding, and locating of wiring and component devices. Students will demonstrate the ability to write work orders and warranty reports. Student must furnish safety glasses.
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
(AUT 140/141) (AUT 240/241) (ADX 260/261) (AUT 142/143)
Credit: 4
Grade Level: 11-12
Prerequisite: Instructor Approval
A course designed for the student who has demonstrated the ability for an upper level course. Course is 2 blocks/2 semesters and includes Basic Fuel & Ignition, Computer Control Systems, Electrical Systems and Emission Systems. Student must furnish safety glasses.
CO-OP I (AUT199)
Credit: 1 (1 Block, 1 Semester)
Grade Level: 11-12
Prerequisite: Completion of 3 credits of Automotive
Tech and Instructor approval
Co-op provides supervised on-the-job work experience related to the student's educational objectives. Students who participate in the Cooperative Education program receive compensation for their work.
Student must furnish safety glasses.
CO-OP II (AUT299)
Credit: 2 (2 Blocks, 1 semester OR 1 block all year) Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite: Completion of 3 credits of Automotive
Tech and Instructor Approval
Co-op provides supervised on-the-job work experience related to the students educational objectives. Students who participate in the Cooperative Education program receive compensation for their work.
Student must furnish safety glasses.
PRACTICUM I (AUT198)
Credit: 1 (1 block, 1 semester)
Grade Level: 11-12
Prerequisite: Instructor Approval
Provides supervised on the job work experience related to the students educational objectives.
Student must furnish safety glasses.
PRACTICUM II (AUT298)
Credit: 2 (2 blocks, 1 semester OR 1 block all year)
Grade Level: 11-12
Prerequisite: Instructor Approval
Provides supervised on the job work experience related to the students educational objectives.
Student must furnish safety glasses.