One of the Top Hybrid Markets in the Nation
The San Francisco Bay Area has been listed among the top hybrid markets in the nation, with a visible increase in alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs) on the roadways including passenger cars, commercial fleet vehicles and buses. With ride sharing on the rise, companies are now partnering with automotive manufacturers to provide alternative fuel and autonomous vehicles, which will add to the number of AFVs on the road, and technicians needed in the shops.
Preparing Students for Local Jobs Maintaining, Servicing, Diagnosing and Repairing AFVs
With a large percentage of auto service technicians in the Bay Area engaged in the servicing of AFV vehicles, Chabot College has the unique opportunity to prepare students for local jobs to maintain, service, diagnose, and repair these ever changing and increasingly complex vehicles and systems.
While Chabot’s Automotive Program already provides all levels of instructional opportunities to students, from high school pathways to incumbent worker training, new funding from the California Energy Commission will allow for significant program enhancements. The upcoming purchases of a Chevrolet Volt, Toyota Prius Gen 3, and Nissan Leaf are intended to provide enhanced hands-on learning experiences for students across multiple AFV platforms.
“Chabot College appreciates the opportunity that the ATRE funding provides to our students, faculty, and institution,” said Kurt Shadbolt, Automotive Technology Instructor. “This investment in our program will provide increased learning opportunities for our students on newer hybrid and electric vehicles, additional diagnostic tools, and provide updated training opportunities for our entire Automotive faculty.”
Developing Subject-Specific “Introduction” Curriculum
In addition to the purchase of updated diagnostic tools and equipment, funds will also be used to develop subject-specific “Introduction” curriculum to better prepare students for Hybrid, Electric and Alternative Fuels courses.
Content will also be developed related to new battery technologies, battery charging, new vehicle technology, and more.
Introduction, intermediate and advanced levels of technical update training will also be delivered to all department Instructors.
Chabot College – More Than 50 Years Providing Training to the Local Community
With more than 50 years of providing training to the local community, the Chabot College Automotive Faculty takes great pride in offering courses and programs that meet the needs of this rapidly changing industry.
“The ATRE funding provides a new foundation for us to continue to evolve our program to meet industry needs,” Shadbolt said.
