In the past few decades, cars have changed so much, students at Shadow don’t even remember when drivers had to manually roll down the windows, or put the key into the door to lock or unlock it. Now, with the advanced technologies, electronically controlled and alternate fuel sources have changed the roles of traditional mechanics to that of technicians. This is where Automotive Technology comes in. 

Automotive Technology is a program that focuses on the study of motor vehicles. This program is offered here at Shadow Ridge with no specific prerequisites, however, there is a $40 class fee for each year. This fee goes towards shop supplies, ID badges for students to display their achievements, and shop tools. Students can take this class for 3 years, and at the end, students have the opportunity to earn several certifications, including a special high school diploma with the career readiness achievement. 

Mr. Degeer, the Automotive teacher stated, “A student doesn’t need to love cars to join this class, even if they will take this class for general knowledge, cars are a part of our everyday lives, so knowing about them is beneficial for everyone. Plus we get to play with tons of cool tools and equipment. ”

In the auto shop, students learn about the inner workings of an internal combustion engine, how transmissions work, and all other systems they can find in their vehicles. Not only do they learn how engines work, but they also learn how to disassemble and repair them. 

Mr. Degeer relayed three important goals for this class. The first goal is to teach everyone how to be responsible employees, and how to be employable. This is important because employability skills pertain to all careers and jobs. The second goal is to shape his students into career-ready automotive technicians. Being career ready will help students acquire high paying jobs without a college education straight out of high school. The third goal is to teach his students how to successfully diagnose car problems and how to fix them as well. 

“I spent 15 years working in the automotive industry and accomplished everything there was to accomplish for me, and I love that every day I get to pass down all of my knowledge to my students,” Mr. Degeer expressed. 

Mr. Degeer would like to start an annual car show every year at Shadow Ridge, and he is hopeful that his students will be able to build a car to compete in the car show. Autoshop students are also planning on having a Car and Skills USA Club once the school envioronment goes back to normal.