LaSalle auto training program credited
LASALLE — The La Salle-Peru Area Career Center automotive training program already had a good reputation.
But the La Salle-based program got another injection of credibility this month when it received accreditation by National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation and the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.
“That means our students have entry-level skills that ASE wants for young mechanics entering the field,” automotive instructor Frank Pope said.
Even before the accreditation, Pope often would receive calls from area shop operators who needed extra employees who could handle basic work and for students who have shown ability to learn and grow on the job.
Currently, there are high school students who attend the ACC performing basic tasks at a large auto dealership in Peru as well as a truck maintenance and repair shop, for example.
LP/ACC's automotive program now is accredited in four areas: brakes, Suspension & Steering, electrical/electronic systems and engine performance.
“We're quite proud,” Pope said. “In the state of Illinois, there's only 15 high schools that have national accreditation, and we're the only high school program south of Interstate 80.”
To achieve this coveted recognition, the school's automotive training program underwent rigorous evaluation by NATEF. Nationally accepted standards of excellence in areas such as instruction (Pope is a master mechanic), facilities and equipment were used. Three local ASE-certified mechanics performed a two-day evaluation to determine whether the program qualified for accreditation.
“This is great news for automotive-minded young people and their parents,” Donald Seyfer, NATEF chairman, said in a press release. “Because this program increases cooperation between local education and industry leaders, it gives added assurance that LP/ACC's graduates will be employable entry-level technicians.
“As a result of the quality education provided LP/ACC, the motoring public will benefit since better repair technicians will join the work force.”
ASE is a national non-profit organization which tests and certifies auto repair technicians, in addition to accrediting automotive training programs.
Pope added, “During the past year we have worked closely with NATEF to make certain our program would meet strict industry standards, and now we are delighted to join the ranks of the ASE accredited programs. Students with their hard work will be assured of a quality education, and shop owners will be assured of getting quality job applicants.”
Pope said he makes certain the students can handle the basics and also have the depth of knowledge to move on to further certification in areas such as transmissions, heating and air conditioning and engine repair. Illinois Valley Community College's program is accredited in all eight areas of instruction desired by ASE.