Sinclair Automotive Technology Hosts Electric Vehicle (EV) Training for Instructors from Across the Country

An electric vehicle (EV) training program for instructors from across the country was recently hosted by Sinclair Community College’s Automotive Technology Department. The department hosted a “Battery Electric Vehicle Summer Institute” training at Sinclair’s Automotive Laboratories, the John E. Moore, Sr. Technology Center (Building 20), as part of a National Science Foundation (NSF) grant. This 3-year, $602,000 grant has allowed Sinclair to develop the electric vehicle training and curriculum.

27 post-secondary automotive faculty from community colleges across the nation participated in this 3-day workshop designed to give instructors access to the skills and knowledge they need to strengthen their electric vehicle training programs. Led by Facilitator Thomas Freels, Professor of Automotive Technology and Program Coordinator of the Mopar CAP program, the visiting faculty learned theory, operation, service, and diagnosis of Battery Electric Vehicles.

Sinclair Community College’s Automotive Department is a national leader in EV technology, leading the way in providing the labs and materials to guest instructors from all across the nation to utilize in their newly developed EV courses and programs throughout the country.

“As the hybrid and electric vehicle market continues to grow, Sinclair Community College remains committed to providing innovative programs to prepare instructors and students with the latest technical training to meet the growing workforce needs,” said Justin Morgan, Chair - Sinclair Community College Automotive Technology Department.  “Sinclair is proud to receive this funding from the National Science Foundation that allows us the opportunity to train a highly skilled workforce in new and emerging electric vehicle technologies.”

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), an 11% job growth for automotive electricians is forecasted through 2033 with approximately 9,600 job openings projected each year, offering an estimated median annual wage of $61,760.

The NSF grant is also being used to develop a new certificate program that will provide students with advanced training in high-voltage safety systems, removing/replacing batteries, servicing electric drive motors, and other skills needed to service electric vehicles. The grant allows Sinclair to recruit high school students for automotive summer camps designed to increase students’ interest in taking automotive technician courses.

Sinclair’s Automotive Technology Program offers multiple associate degrees and certificates. Sinclair’s program has two-year associate degree internship-based programs partnering with American Honda, Stellantis Automobiles, and General Motors to prepare students for entry-level automotive service technician positions at local dealerships. Additionally, Sinclair has a two-year associate degree internship-based program that works with independent shops and other dealerships throughout the region. The automotive program is accredited by the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Education Foundation and offers daytime and evening courses.