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Beginning in fall 2021, Ecorse students will have a new Career and Technical Education (CTE) course option. Automotive Service Technician will join Cosmetology, Radio and Television, Graphic Design, and Certified Nursing Assistant, to make a total of five CTE Programs offered at Ecorse High School. CTE Programs give students the opportunity to get a head start on preparing for college or a career.

"We're pretty excited about this opportunity that's going to be coming forth," says Ecorse Schools Superintendent Josha Talison. Students who opt to take the program must be dedicated as the course will require a minimum of three hours each day for two years, beginning in their junior year. Once completed, students will take the test to obtain ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certification as a repair technician. Graduates will find employment at entry-level positions at auto repair shops and may choose to further their education and certifications through trade school, college, or apprenticeship. "It's a major commitment for that two-year period but the benefits are lifelong," Talison adds. "It's really a gateway opportunity for folks interested in that kind of service."

Both classroom and practical hands-on learning will be part of the course. Talison says testing fees for the ASE certification and state licensing fees will be covered as part of the course by the district. In addition, Ecorse High School already has the facilities to house an automotive tech course, so there was no need for the district to find funding for construction of an auto lab.

The district will partner with local auto dealerships to provide internships, allowing students to put their new skills to use while learning more about the auto repair business. Talison says that ideally, an internship should lead to employment. "The goal is that after they graduate, they go work for that dealership."

Talison says the district chose Auto Service Technician as its new CTE course because it is one of the most in-demand career training programs in the country. The fact that graduates of the program can later choose to add additional certifications in different areas of auto service, including parts specialist or collision damage, means the career can be tailored to meet the student's abilities and preferences. "We're trying to meet the needs of all our students to find whatever niche they get themselves into for their betterment; they're learning lifelong skills," he says.

The new course will be limited to 20 students and will provide opportunities for students to make the real-world connections between concepts taught in math, science, and language arts.

The superintendent is pleased to provide the opportunity for Ecorse students to get a jump start on a career they enjoy. "We're just excited about the opportunity we're going to be providing our students, they deserve the best and we're trying to provide all the services we can to make sure they get the best."