Transforming Automotive Education at New Britain High School
The automotive industry is rapidly evolving with advancements in technology, including electric vehicles (EVs), advanced diagnostics, and automation. To ensure students acquire the high-demand skills required for lucrative careers in this field, New Britain High School is embarking on a comprehensive upgrade to its auto mechanics shop. This initiative will enhance hands-on learning opportunities, foster innovation, and align the program with the standards of high-skills, high-wages, and in-demand jobs.
The Academy of Manufacturing, Engineering, & Technology (MET) at New Britain High School is designed to create a best-in-class manufacturing academy program. The MET Academy aims to develop a skilled talent pipeline to support the current and future workforce needs in New Britain and the surrounding area through pre-apprentice and apprenticeship programs. By integrating STEM experiences and project-based learning, the MET Academy provides students with opportunities to engage in hands-on activities that mirror the real-world manufacturing, engineering, and technology industries.
Previously, the MET Academy successfully upgraded the Technology Wing at New Britain High School, incorporating the latest machinery and technology for practical, in-class education. This upgrade has already made a significant impact, preparing students for high-demand, high-paying careers in modern manufacturing.
The success of this initiative demonstrates the MET Academy’s commitment to providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the workforce.
The modernization of equipment for the automotive department will involve upgrading tools, diagnostic machines, and repair technology to reflect industry standards. Emerging technologies will be integrated, including EV training modules, hybrid vehicle diagnostic tools, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) training. Safety and efficiency will be enhanced by improving ventilation, installing ergonomic workstations, upgrading floors, walls, ceiling tiles, and lighting, and enhancing shop organization. Training capabilities will be expanded to provide access to industry certifications, work-based learning experiences, simulated workplace environments, and partnerships with local automotive businesses. Sustainability and green initiatives will be introduced, such as energy-efficient lighting, recycling programs, and eco-friendly automotive repair practices.
Facility improvements will include epoxy treatment of the shop floor and installation of vinyl composition tile in the adjacent classroom, painting of walls and ceiling tiles, improved lighting and ventilation, replacement of garage doors and exterior/interior doors, and expansion of workspace to accommodate more students and vehicles. Technology and equipment investments will involve purchasing state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and software for modern combustion, hybrid, and electric engines, acquiring hybrid and electric vehicle trainers, and integrating augmented reality (AR) or virtual reality (VR) training simulators.
Curriculum and training enhancements will include developing courses aligned with ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) and NATEF (National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation) standards, hands-on training partnerships with automotive dealerships and service centers, and industry-led workshops and certification opportunities for students.
The expected outcomes of this initiative include increased student employability in high-skill, high-wage positions, enhanced student engagement through access to cutting-edge technology, improved student readiness for ASE certification exams and other industry-recognized credentials, greater exposure to career pathways in emerging automotive fields, including electric and autonomous vehicles, development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills through real-world, hands-on training, increased post-secondary enrollment in automotive and technical education programs, alignment with the latest state CTE standards and workforce demands in the modern automotive industry, and strengthened partnerships with local businesses and post-secondary institutions.
The Community Foundation of Greater New Britain (CFGNB) is committed to supporting this vital initiative. We invite you to join us in making a difference by contributing to the modernization of New Britain High School’s Auto Mechanics Shop. Your donations will directly impact the future of our students, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed for successful careers in the automotive industry. Your generous support can help us achieve the modernization of equipment, integration of emerging technologies, enhancement of safety and efficiency, expansion of training capabilities, and promotion of sustainability.
Donate Today to support the future of automotive education and help us build a brighter tomorrow for students.