UAS Automotive Tech Program Recertified by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation and The National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence

The UAS Automotive Technology program works closely with local industry in Juneau to train students to enter the local work force and to assist those already employed with furthering their technical skills.

Juneau, AK

Date of Press Release: May 15, 2008

The Automotive Technology program at UAS in Juneau has received five-year re-certification by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) and The National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). UAS received its initial certification in 2003. UAS’ automotive program has been recertified in all eight areas offered for certification through NATEF: A1 – Engine Repair; A2 – Automatic Transmissions/Transaxles; A3 – Manual Drive Train and Axles; A4 – Suspension and Steering; A5 – Brakes; A6 – Electrical/Electronic Systems; A7 – Heating and Air Conditioning; A8 – Engine Performance.

To achieve this coveted recognition, the school’s automotive technology program underwent rigorous evaluation by NATEF. Nationally accepted standards of excellence in areas such as instruction, facilities, and equipment were used.

“This is great news for automotive-minded young people and their parents,” said Donald Seyfer, NATEF Chair. “Because this program increases cooperation between local education and industry leaders, it gives added assurance that UAS’ graduates will be employable entry-level technicians. As a result of the quality education provided by UAS, the motoring public will benefit since better repair technicians will join the work force.” Upon completion of the evaluation, NATEF recommended that UAS be re-certified by the ASE. ASE is a national non-profit organization which tests and certifies repair technicians, in addition to certifying automotive training programs.

Tony Martin, Automotive Technology program head added, “During the past few months, we have worked closely with NATEF to make certain our program continues to meet strict industry standards. We are very excited that we have been recertified to continue the program. We starting rebuilding the program in 2001 and achieved initial certification in 2003. Students will be assured of a quality education and shop owners will be assured of getting quality job applicants.” The UAS Automotive Technology program works closely with local industry in Juneau to train students to enter the local work force and to assist those already employed with furthering their technical skills.

In April 2008, the NATEF evaluation team visited the UAS Technical Education Center to review the self-study documents, inspect the facility and instructional aids, and meet with Tony Martin and members of the administrative team. The Evaluation Team Leader was Jerry Million from North Pole, Alaska. Mr. Million runs the North Pole high school automotive program and has been a supporter of the UAS program for many years. Evaluation team members who participated in the on-site visit included Darrin Marshall from the University of Alaska Anchorage's General Motors Automotive Student Education Program (ASEP) program and Sam Russell from Mendenhall Auto Center. The Evaluation Team commended Tony Martin for an outstanding instructional program and they were very complimentary about the great job that Tony did in preparing the self-study. Dean Karen Schmitt stated, “Tony is dedicated to making the UAS automotive technology program an area of excellence for UAS.” The re-certification of the program rewards Tony’s dedication.

For more information on UAS’ automotive technology program, visit the Website or call us at (907) 796-6120.