Issue date: 3/5/10 Section: Automotive

Media Credit: Sierra Hutto Automotive student Matt Delaney replaces head gaskets, one of the many skills that he learned in automotive class.

The LPC Automotive department stands for much more than auto repairs. Students are on a strict learning schedule according to Brian Hagopian, Automotive Instructor and creator of the Automotive Technology class at LPC.
"Each week students learn a different subject, basic anatomy, brakes, suspension and even alternative fuels" says Hagopian.
According to Hagopian, more than half of enrolled students are just curious about cars and learning about the basics. Tune-ups, battery starters and oil changing are included in the curriculum and there are many entry-level concepts to grasp and may prove beneficial to all car drivers.
Some of the rumors are that LPC students may bring their cars into the department for a cheap to free fix, but the liability aspect unfortunately frowns upon this.
However there are some small exceptions that are based around the learning schedule in auto classes.
It is hard to get onto the fixing list says Hagopian, but sometimes we use outside cars if it fits into the curriculum and enrolled students do not have a "bad example car" to perform repairs on.
It is a known fact that sometimes it is better to adapt the DIY or do it yourself attitude and learning these basic mechanics will help save money and not to mention put the task on a time schedule to the driver's liking.
The average cost to get an oil change from Wheel Works would cost $24.99. If performed at home, this would merely set the driver back $12.00 for the cost of a 5 quart bottle from Wal-Mart.
Automotive Service Technician and Automotive Technician certificates are available at LPC. Those who have completed them can enroll as student assistants, or a "Lady Lab Assistant," the very name Diana Lopez has been nominated as by friendly classmates.
When the instructor is tied up with others in the class, Lopez gets to share her knowledge with fellow classmates.
She is around for those who come into the lab hour to work on their own cars, another benefit of enrolling in automotive classes.
These certificates are also beneficial to mechanics looking to enter the real world.
The knowledge learned through the LPC automotive department can set aspiring technicians on the right track to a successful career in automotive repair, alteration and alternative fuel professions.

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