Career and Technical Education


Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics (TDL)

 

Transportation, distribution, and logistics workers move people and products by road, air, rail, and water. They work as drivers, pilots, engineers, or captains; repair, maintain, design, or build the vehicles, trains, planes, and ships that move people and products; or work behind the scene to make sure the products and people get to the right place on time. Our classes within this cluster include Welding and Automotive.


Courses

Introduction to Welding

In this introductory course to the Manufacturing career cluster, students are introduced to elementary practices of welding. Students explore basic welding types (SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, CRSW and Oxy-fuel welding), two types of metal cutting (Oxy-fuel and Plasma Arc), the basic welding symbols, and a weldment drawing, the basic techniques for material preparations. This course uses both group and individual projects and problem-based scenarios as instructional opportunities. Students practice general employability skills such as effective communication, interpersonal skills, and presentation skills. The course is recommended for students interested in Automotive Technology I.

Advanced Welding

In this advanced course, students are introduced to advanced practices of welding. Students continue to develop competence in SMAW, GMAW, GTAW in all positions, develop skills needed for AWS flat certification in SMAW, understand the metallurgy of common metal for welding, explore GTAW for Stainless and Aluminum and thin metals, and become competent understanding welding symbols and interpreting weldment drawing. Students will also practice creating a welding project from estimating to building. This course uses both group and individual projects and problem-based scenarios as instructional tools. Students practice general employability skills such as effective communication, interpersonal skills, and presentation skills. 

Introduction to Automotive Technology

In this introductory course, students will explore entry level automotive maintenance. Students will be introduced to workplace safety, engine diagnostics, exploration of suspension and brake systems, and introduction to electrical systems. Students will also explore minor body repair. The course is designed to prepare students for Auto Technology I. 

Automotive Technology I

Automotive Technology I offers hands-on shop experience and problem-based learning in a fully equipped mobile equipment repair (mechanics) and/or collision-repair (auto body and painting) facility. Students will learn about areas of the automotive industry as well as transferable skills that apply to automotive systems, oversee scheduling of appointments, ordering parts, managing stock items, assessing collision damage, and mixing and applying modern automotive finishes.

 

Automotive Technology I provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed decisions about pursuing a career in the Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics career cluster. This course is an excellent choice for all students who will need to understand and maintain their own vehicles and equipment or those who wish to follow this path to post-secondary education and employment.

 

Students may be referred to Work-Based Learning by their instructor based on the student’s meeting the program’s technical proficiencies.

Automotive Technology II

In Automotive Technology II students focus their efforts in a specific career concentration continuing to build on the skills and knowledge learned in Automotive Technology I while focusing on skills and knowledge specific to their choice. Students will be encouraged to pursue further education, obtain ASE or ICAR credentials and/or seek an apprenticeship program in the industry.

 

Students may be referred to Work-Based Learning by their instructor based on the student’s meeting the program’s technical proficiencies.


Career Opportunities

 

Career opportunities in automotive technology span across various categories and skill levels, providing a wide range of options for individuals seeking employment in this industry.

 

These career opportunities in automotive technology offer diverse paths for individuals passionate about working with vehicles, aircraft, boats, and industrial equipment, providing a range of roles to suit different interests and skill sets.

 

Here are descriptions of career opportunities in each of the specified categories.

Automotive Technology

Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician: Aerospace engineering and operations technicians assist aerospace engineers in designing, testing, and maintaining aircraft and spacecraft. They may be involved in assembling, calibrating, and operating testing equipment, collecting data, and conducting inspections to ensure compliance with quality standards and safety regulations.

 

Aircraft Mechanic and Service Technician: Aircraft mechanics and service technicians inspect, maintain, repair, and overhaul aircraft systems, including engines, airframes, avionics, and electrical components. They follow maintenance manuals, diagnose issues, replace faulty parts, and perform routine inspections to ensure aircraft safety and airworthiness.

 

Automotive Technician: Automotive technicians diagnose, repair, and maintain automobiles, specializing in mechanical, electrical, or computer systems. They use diagnostic tools, troubleshoot issues, perform regular maintenance tasks, and ensure vehicles meet safety and performance standards.

 

Avionics Technician: Avionics technicians focus on the maintenance, repair, and installation of avionics systems in aircraft, such as communication, navigation, and radar systems. They troubleshoot electronic systems, calibrate instruments, and perform inspections to ensure optimal functionality and compliance with aviation regulations.

 

Bus and Truck Mechanic: Bus and truck mechanics service and repair heavy-duty vehicles, including buses, trucks, and commercial fleet vehicles. They diagnose and fix mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic issues, perform routine maintenance tasks, and may specialize in specific vehicle types or systems.

 

Collision Repair Technician: Collision repair technicians, also known as automotive body repairers, restore damaged vehicles to their pre-accident condition. They use various techniques to repair body panels, replace parts, apply paint and finish, and ensure proper alignment, restoring the vehicle’s structural integrity and appearance.

 

Diesel Engine Specialist: Diesel engine specialists work with diesel-powered vehicles and equipment, diagnosing issues, conducting repairs, and performing maintenance tasks. They have expertise in diesel engine systems, fuel injection, electrical components, and emissions control systems.

 

Motorboat Mechanic: Motorboat mechanics specialize in the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of motorized boats and watercraft. They inspect engines, electrical systems, propulsion systems, and perform repairs to ensure proper functioning and safety on the water.

 

Off-Road Equipment Technician: Off-road equipment technicians service and repair machinery used in construction, mining, agriculture, and other industries. They work on equipment like bulldozers, excavators, and loaders, diagnosing issues, replacing parts, and ensuring optimal performance.

 

Service Manager: Service managers oversee service departments in automotive or other equipment-related businesses. They manage a team of technicians, handle customer inquiries, schedule repairs, ensure timely completion of work, and maintain customer satisfaction.

 

Service Writer: Service writers, also known as service advisors or service consultants, act as a liaison between customers and technicians. They communicate with customers regarding their vehicle’s service needs, write repair orders, provide cost estimates, and ensure effective communication throughout the service process.

 

Ship Mechanic and Repairer: Ship mechanics and repairers maintain and repair various marine vessels, including ships, boats, and watercraft. They inspect and repair engines, propulsion systems, electrical systems, and other components to ensure safe and efficient vessel operation.

 

Industrial Equipment Mechanic: Industrial equipment mechanics specialize in maintaining and repairing machinery used in manufacturing, construction, and other industrial settings. They diagnose issues, perform preventive maintenance, repair mechanical and hydraulic systems, and ensure equipment safety and performance.


Faculty

Michael Deming

Automotive Technology Instructor

 

Michael Deming joined St. Johnsbury Academy in 2023. He was previously shop foreman at Twin State Ford in St. Johnsbury and an automotive technician at North Country Ford in Lancaster, NH. He participated in the Ford ASSET program and Skills USA as a student. Mr. Deming holds an Associate of Applied Science degree in Automotive Technology from Central Maine Community College.