Skip to content

Automotive Technology

Automotive Technology Program Area

Students in the Automotive Technology CTE program area don’t just learn how to fix cars—they learn how to build careers that keep the world moving. This immersive, skill-based instruction builds the essential trade proficiencies needed to service and maintain vehicles, while opening doors to a wide range of high-demand industries.

Review the Program Area (PDF)

Video Poster

Hands-On Learning in Our Automotive Lab

Inside our fully equipped automotive lab, students learn in a space that mirrors a real-world shop. They master fundamentals like brake repair, engine assembly, electrical troubleshooting, and welding—building technical skills and work ethic for careers in automotive repair, mechanical engineering, welding, and manufacturing. Industry-recognized certifications and rising demand for skilled technicians position MHS graduates to launch into high-impact careers immediately after high school.

MHS automotive classroom

MHS culinary students plating a dessert

CTE Viewbook

Read and learn details about the MHS CTE program.

Download the Viewbook (PDF)

MHS automotive student

“I am participating in a co-op with a local Ford dealership. There, I am learning the complete ins and outs of the work and sales side. Understanding how much mechanics and senior technicians get paid in labor, it’s definitely a field I want to get involved with.”

—Braydon Friel-Lester, MHS Student

Setting Students Up for Success

MHS students grow their core skills outside the high school classroom by joining student organizations and enrolling in college courses, getting a head start in their career.

Core Skills

  • Complex Problem Solving
  • Data Analysis
  • Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards
  • Assembling and Installing Systems

Student Organization

  • Technology Student Association

College Partnership

  • Northampton Community College

Future Career Options

With a High School Diploma:

  • Mechanic
  • Tire and Lube Technician
  • Auto Body/Collision Repair Technician

With a 2-Year Degree:

  • Advanced Automotive Service Technician
  • Fleet Maintenance Technician
  • Service Manager/Shop Supervisor

With a 4-Year Degree:

  • Automotive Engineer
  • Manufacturing Engineer
  • Quality Assurance Engineer
  • Motorsports Engineer

Authentic Work Experience

Prior to graduation, students must complete an Authentic Work Experience (AWE) that is directly connected to their CTE coursework. This can include part-time employment, internships, pre-apprenticeships, or cooperative education (co-op) opportunities.

Internships

  • MHS Vehicle Equipment Maintenance Department (VEM)
  • HE&R

Co-operative Education

  • MHS VEM Department
  • HE&R
  • Maguire’s Ford of Hershey
Milton Hershey School student with World of Outlaws senior leadership.

Driven by Opportunity

MHS has teamed up with the World of Outlaws, a premier name in motorsports, to open doors for students interested in the automotive industry and beyond. Through this dynamic partnership, students engage directly with elite race teams, gaining firsthand insight into the fast-paced world of racing. These experiences help students build skills, spark passions, and accelerate toward their future goals.

Explore the Experience

Learn more about Milton Hershey School’s Career and Technical Education program and its 10 program areas.

View All Program Areas

Milton Hershey School does not discriminate in admissions or other programs and services on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, sex, religious creed or disability. Read important MHS policies on equal opportunity and diversity, equal employment opportunity, and more.

© 2025 Milton Hershey School
Also of Interest