'I can be hired right now.'

Grant County High School students are learning some impressive skills in the Career and Technical Center. Students enrolled in the Automotive pathway are learning skills that will help not only in future employment but in general life situations.

From changing the brakes and rotors on a car, working on the electrical panel in a car door to fix the window power, and even changing out a transmission, these students have more than a basic understanding of how vehicle systems work. They’re also learning the most efficient and cost-effective way of fixing these issues.

Senior automotive student, Ethan Hill shared his experience in the Automotive pathway, “I’ve been doing this most of my life. My dad is a truck driver, so I always helped him work on stuff.

“I’m certified in nine ASE [Automotive Service Excellence] certifications. I can be hired right now.

“Since Mr. B [Stephen Bauereis] has shown up he has been one of the best teachers you could have asked for. He always helps me with everything I need. If you want to be in the automotive profession, you need to take this class; if you just want to learn how to work on stuff, you ought to take this class too.”

Grant County High School has a state-of-the-art automotive shop inside the Career and Technical Center. It offers three bays, five lifts, and all the equipment students need to learn how to succeed in the automotive industry.

The pathway just received a new brake table, so students can practice placing and removing brakes; sensors light up if everything is correct, which allows students to see in real-time, how they are progressing.

Bauereis joined the Grant County High School staff in 2022. Having had experience in the automotive industry, he brings extensive knowledge and real-world experience into his classroom every day.

“Productive struggle is something my students face daily. I intentionally allow them to question, think, and try many avenues, only offering questions to them in return. ‘What is the most efficient way to remove this part?’

“If students know how to work quickly and efficiently, they will make more money.”