Career & Tech's Medium/Heavy Duty Truck Repair program recertified by NATEF/ASE certification; it’s only program in state to do so

The Medium/Heavy Truck Repair program at Career & Tech's Albany campus has earned re-certification from the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF)/National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). The program was awarded its original certification in 2005 and had to undergo a rigorous evaluation by NATEF/ASE to recertify.

The program is taught by Sam Frink, a NATEF/ASE-certified truck and automotive technician and New York State and Massachusetts-certified career and technical education teacher. Career & Tech’s program, which is offered to both high school and adult students, is the only NATEF/ASE-certified truck repair program in New York State. Nationwide, 113 truck repair programs have earned such certification.

Career & Tech’s Automotive Trades, Automotive Tech Prep, AYES Automotive Technician and Auto Body Refinishing programs also have earned NATEF/ASE certification.

To become NATEF/ASE-certified, programs and their teachers are evaluated on their curriculum, structure and resources, and they must meet or exceed industry-recognized, uniform standards of excellence. Founded in 1983, NATEF is an independent, non-profit organization that evaluates and improves technician training programs to ensure that students master the skills and knowledge required in the industry.

Students in Career & Tech’s two-year Medium/Heavy Duty Truck Repair program learn using computers and other technology, as well as hands-on, about engine and clutch fundamentals, hydraulic systems, suspension and steering, air and hydraulic brakes, electrical and electronics systems, preventive maintenance, integrated science and integrated English. They can earn college credits through agreements with SUNY Cobleskill, SUNY Morrisville, Ohio Technical College, University of Northwestern Ohio and Universal Technical Institute. Such early credits enable them to enter college in advanced standing.

In addition, Medium/Heavy Duty Truck Repair students gain valuable, real-world experience through internships, cooperative work agreements and after-school and summer employment at local businesses. Students completing the program are in demand by local, regional and national employers. They are prepared for careers as diesel engine technicians, auto/bus/truck technicians, fleet technicians, dealership technicians, heavy equipment technicians, or service managers.

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