The Pittsburg High School automotive technology program has once again received national recognition.

PHS recently was recertified by The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). The certification means that the program met the national standards and passed inspections in the area of brakes, electrical/ electronic systems, engine performance and suspension and steering.

"There are national standards that have been developed from professionals in the field," Mike Elder, automotive technology teacher for PHS, said. "They decide what it is we should teach future automotive technicians. To meet the standards you have to have equipment, the curriculum has to be in place, I have to get direction from area businesses who serve on my advisory committee, those are all requirements to meet the standards. We started this process in 2000 and this is a recertification, you have to recertify every six years."

Elder said the requirements take time and dedication to master, with PHS being one of only four high schools in the state to receive ASE certification.

But the certification benefits more than the program. PHS students graduating from the program have the necessary skills to enter the work force or continue their education at the college level.

"The certification means that they are given the curriculum and training they would need to leave Pittsburg High School and start an entry level position in a service facility," Elder said. "But one of our main goals is to see them be prepared for further education, should they pursue a higher degree."

For those students that choose to continue their automotive technology education at Pittsburg State University, the ASE certification allows them to take a test that can exempt them from select automotive technology course.

"The college has an articulation agreement with us," Elder said. "The students have to take the ASE certification test and if they pass they can quiz out of some classes at the college level. If they meet the criteria, they can skip some and move right on up."

The Morning Sun, (www.morningsun.net) February 2, 2007

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