Automotive Technology

Automotive Technology is one of today’s most exciting and in-demand career fields. Skilled technicians keep modern vehicles safe, efficient, and reliable, and the work offers a pathway to a rewarding and stable career. This field calls for problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work with advanced technology.

Our Automotive Technology program is part of the Transportation, Distribution & Logistics Career Cluster. Students in this two-year program train in both classroom and lab settings, working directly on vehicles and their systems.

What you’ll do:

• Learn and apply safety practices in a professional shop environment
• Use industry-standard tools and diagnostic equipment
• Develop computer and technical skills for advanced vehicle systems
• Apply shop math to real-world automotive tasks

Certifications you can earn:

• Tier 1: OSHA-10
• Tier 2: ASE Entry-Level Certifications, Multimeter
• Tier 3: Section 609 (EPA Refrigerant Recovery & Recycling)

Students earn two high school credits each semester and up to eight credits over the two-year program. Credits count as electives toward South Carolina graduation requirements, and one credit may fulfill the CATE/Foreign Language requirement.

Visit us: Are you interested in meeting Mr. Lydic and touring our Automotive Technology lab? After-school tours for prospective students and parents are available in December, January, and February. We’d love to show you the program and answer any questions you may have.

Automotive Technology 1 & 2 — (AM Session at Enoree)

If you’ve ever pictured yourself under the hood of a car solving problems others can’t, the Automotive Technology program gives you that chance. Year one introduces students to the automotive industry through a mix of classroom instruction, hands-on labs, and real-world training designed to build confidence and technical skill. Open to rising 10th and 11th graders, students attend Enoree Career Center during the morning session as part of their two-year commitment. Training covers shop safety, tool use, and the fundamentals of modern vehicle systems—brakes, steering, suspension, engines, and electronics—while emphasizing problem-solving, accuracy, and teamwork.

As students advance into Automotive Technology 2, training becomes more challenging. You’ll diagnose and repair more complex systems, work with advanced diagnostic equipment, and practice industry-level procedures that prepare you for real shop environments. Along the way, students may also gain real-world experience through work-based learning placements with area dealerships and repair shops, applying classroom training in professional settings.

Together, Automotive Technology 1 and 2 prepare students to test for ASE Entry-Level certifications, OSHA-10, and Section 609 credentials, giving them a strong foundation for success in the automotive industry and opening doors to apprenticeships, technical college, or immediate entry into the workforce.

Automotive Technology 3 & 4 — (PM Session at Enoree)

Year two of the Automotive Technology program builds on the foundation from year one and pushes students to apply their skills in advanced vehicle systems and real-world scenarios. Students attend Enoree Career Center during the afternoon session as part of their two-year commitment. Training expands into engine performance, advanced electrical diagnostics, climate control systems, drivetrains, and steering and suspension at a higher level of complexity. Students also refine their precision, efficiency, and problem-solving abilities while practicing industry procedures in a professional shop environment. Customer service and communication skills are emphasized as well, ensuring students are prepared for the expectations of today’s automotive workforce.

As students progress through Automotive Technology 3 and 4, they take on complex repair projects, perform advanced diagnostic work, and gain experience with the latest industry tools and technology. Those who excel may also participate in work-based learning placements with local dealerships and repair facilities, where classroom training is reinforced with real-world responsibilities.

By the end of year two, students are prepared to earn advanced ASE Entry-Level certifications, Multimeter, and Section 609 credentials. The combination of technical knowledge, hands-on experience, and industry certifications gives graduates a competitive edge as they transition into technical college, apprenticeships, or full-time automotive careers.

Automotive Technician

The duties of an automotive technician include repairing defective automotive components and inspecting and ensuring the auto's performance, stability, and safety. An automotive technician also runs quality checks and improves system designs based on clients' specifications.

Salary- $40,910 per year on average, or $19.67 per hour

Lead Mechanic

A Lead Mechanic performs major mechanical repairs to ensure the proper performance and safety of vehicles. They evaluate mechanical problems, analyze engine performance, and perform routine vehicle maintenance and preventive care.

Salary - $54,471 per year on average, or $26.19 per hour

Master Technician

A master automotive technician is an expert in auto repair work. Job duties include inspecting repair equipment, overseeing and signing off on repairs completed by other mechanics, and training new technicians.

Salary - $97,027 per year on average, or $46.65 per hour