June 2024 NACAT News

In This Issue:

NACAT President's Update

Drew Barnes, Vale School District

Getting to Know...Jacob Craiger, Southeast Kentucky Comm & Tech College

NACAT Conference Attendance: Letter to School Administration

50 Years of NACAT: Share a Tribute / NACAT Member Resources

Families of NACAT Gathering / Indianapolis Travel Tips

NACAT Conference Information: Agenda & Courses

NACAT Sponsorship and Exhibitor Opportunities

Hybrid & Electric Vehicle Corner: Exploring a High-Voltage AC Compressor

NACAT Conference Information: 2024 Welcome Reception Tour

NACAT Conference Hotel Information

NACAT Conference Information: Dave Macholz, Keynote Speaker

Tips & Tricks: Math is Part of the Trade...It Should be Part of the Training

Luke Thompson, Author for Goodheart-Willcox Publisher

Welcome New NACAT Board Members

NACAT Mentor Program: Classroom Engagement

Southern Illinois University Student to Participate in WorldSkills Competition

Welcome New Allied Member: Garage Gurus

NACAT Conference Information: Toyota Materials Tour

NACAT Conference Special Offer: AVTG/Electude EV Train the Trainer

News is Published

DEADLINE DATES

August 2024 issue - July 10, 2024

October 2024 issue - September 10, 2024

December 2024 issue - November 10, 2024

Curt Ward, Professor at Joliet Junior College June 2025 issue - May 10, 2025

February 2025 issue - January 10, 2025

April 2025 issue - March 10, 2025

The latest advertising size and rate information can be found at www.nacat.org.

NACAT President's Update Vale School District

Drew Barnes

Greetings Fellow NACAT Members,

Wow! What a year it has been. It seems as each school year comes to end, it feels like each year just goes by faster and faster. For many of us, our summer break has already begun, while others are gearing up for summer classes. In either case, summer brings a change of pace for us all. Hopefully some of that includes enjoying some well deserved, quality time with friends and family. It also means that many of us are thinking about completing our yearly professional development/industry training that is so important to our programs and us as automotive educators. As many of us are reading this, we have already registered and made our travel arrangements for the upcoming NACAT Conference, which takes place July 22-25, 2024 in Indianapolis, IN. For those that have not, I would highly encourage you to check out our conference website and view the course descriptions. You will not be disappointed with all the great options there are to choose from.

We recently held our board elections, there were several outstanding candidates that ran for a board position this year. We truly appreciate the willingness of each candidate who ran for these positions. It was great to see so many people are willing to sacrifice their time to try and help out our organization. As I was reading through the candidates' profiles, I knew it was going to be very difficult for the membership to pick two, as all of them were outstanding. Your newly elected board members are:

• Rafael De Leon

• Kenneth Hardy

Both of these gentlemen bring a wealth of knowledge and automotive experience to the table, congratulations to both of you. For more information about these two and all of our current board of directors, please check out this section of our website.

This will be the last President’s Update before the NACAT Conference in July. I am really looking forward to seeing all of you in person, and am even more excited for the great lineup of trainers, guest speakers, vendors, and sponsors that are going to be there to support each one of you as automotive educators.

See you in July!

Board of Directors

Chairman of the Board 2023 - 2024

Steve Gibson Riverside, California

Board Member 2021 - 2024

Louie Longhi Carol Stream, Ilinois

Board Member 2022 - 2025

Martin Duvic Baton Rouge, Louisianna

Ron Morris Greensboro, North Carolina

Board Member 2023 - 2026

Todd Richardson Price, Utah Sara Heller Branchburg, New Jersey

Tom Millard Lakewood, Colorado

Wade Johnson Harper, Oregon

Board Member 2024 - 2027

Raphael De Leon Trujillo Alto, Puerto Rico

Kenneth Hardy Hawkinsville, Georgia

Electric Vehicle System Model

The Electric Vehicle System trainer was developed to introduce your students to EV systems with simulated components that are found on today’s electric vehicles. With low voltage simulation, this trainer introduces students to the fundamentals without the danger of working with active high-voltage systems. It allows you to build mock EV circuits that will engage and challenge your students.

Features:

• Simulated High Voltage Components (24V MAX)

• Wall Charging Capable

• Battery Monitoring

• Low Voltage and High Voltage Systems Included

Specialized Components:

• DC to AC Invertor

• Contactors

• HV Junction Blocks

• DC to DC Convertor

• Synchronous AC Drive Motor

• High Voltage Battery Pack

• Low Voltage Battery Pack

Getting To Know... ...Jacob Craiger, Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College

As I begin my fourth year teaching automotive technology at our local community and technical college, I am in awe that my two loves, cars and teaching, have collided and provided me with a unique career.

All my life, I have been fascinated with vehicles and wanted to learn all I could about them. There was a time when I considered my love of cars to be only a hobby and did not foresee that I would have a career centered around the automotive industry.

In kindergarten, we were asked what we wanted to be when we grew up. My answer was a teacher. I never visioned the two would connect.

Throughout my growing up years, I kept my interest in cars. This led to a connection with my neighbor, Bennie Sturgill, who had many years of experience in the automotive industry, and he became my mentor. We worked on anything that had an engine and scoured junkyards and automotive sales as he taught me about vehicles and how to buy, sell, and trade.

When my plan to become a high school history teacher faded and my short stent in the funeral business was over, I returned full-time to what I loved: the automotive industry.

I had attained an automotive degree at our local community and technical college and later became ASE certified. During my time at college, I was often reminded of how many teachers were in my family, including two of my aunts, Sharon Burton and Debi Burton Sexton, and was often encouraged to pursue an education degree. I also attended church with a retired education professor, Roberta Pratt, who had 44 years of experience in education and who inspired me greatly. Her inspiration has helped me develop my teaching philosophy and classroom/shop activities to this day which is long after her passing.

While in automotive school, my automotive professor, Ronnie Daniels, one day mentioned that he would retire some day and that that was another avenue we should consider in the field. I remarked that I would love to have his job but never thought it would go any farther than that.

In February 2020, I received a call from my former professor asking if I would consider a part time teaching position in the automotive department at the college. He also mentioned that he was retiring that year and that he thought I would be a good fit for the position.

Later that year, I was hired as the Automotive Technology Program Coordinator at Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College, and I remain in that position.

I am a lifelong southeast Kentucky resident. I enjoy working on cars along with buying, selling, and collecting them. In addition, I am fond of going to auctions, riding four-wheelers, horseback and mule riding, eating in exquisite restaurants, and traveling.

I serve as Automotive Technology Program Coordinator at Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College, am an ASE Master Certified Technician, SkillsUSA Chapter Advisor, Phi Theta Kappa Coordinator, Honorable Kentucky Colonel, and an Instructor of the Kentucky School Bus Driver Training Program.

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During my tenure as an automotive instructor, I have enjoyed working with industry partners and networking which has allowed my program to grow and students to attain employment upon completion of the program. I am a proud member of NACAT and have benefited greatly from the opportunities it affords automotive teachers. My program and students have been enriched by the networking opportunities that have come from this organization. In a unique position, it is always beneficial to meet with others and learn from each other’s triumphs and mistakes.

I am honored to be an educator and pour back into the community that helped me get my start. I hope I can help my students the way others have helped me. The cycle of education is beautiful.

The effect a teacher can have on the life of a student can never be measured, and the exponential effect that life can have on others has the potential to change the world. The future is entrusted, in great part, to the teacher. What we teach and how we teach will shape the world for years to come. When pliable minds are not properly instructed, they often feel like failures. This leads to schools losing their importance, and the individual may become a drop out and, unfortunately, many become a societal problem. This is why we must maintain an individualized view of students, encouraging them to maintain their identity, as we are all different, much like our fingerprint.

As teachers, we must help our students to identify their strengths and weaknesses and learn to work with each student so they may reach their full potential in the classroom, on the job, and throughout life.

A “cookie cutter” education is a detriment to many students and has had an adverse effect on many lives. It is my hope that as a teacher, I can have a positive impact on every student that walks though my door. I strive to maintain an open mind and to learn daily, so I may be confident in my subject matter to enable me to teach everyone in the room as I seek to give each student an opportunity to succeed within individualized education.

For a teacher to instruct all, from the top student in the class, to the one who struggles, to the one who needs inspiration, they must first be fluent in content matter to personalize the instruction. A memorization of content simply isn’t enough. The teacher must be a lifelong learner, always striving to become better, learn more, and remain up-to-date on the latest developments in our field. A teacher must be open to criticism and not become high-minded when complimented. We all have successes and failures daily and there are always ways to make improvements.

Education, particularly in the technical field, must go beyond content matter. I hope my students also know me as a counselor and supporter and have life enriching experiences during their time in my classroom. It is my sincere wish that every student who attends my classes will be proud to say that they completed the automotive program at SKCTC.

If you don't limit yourself with bad thoughts, you can fly! Jurgen Klopp

CONSULAB WANTS TO BE YOUR EV PARTNER

EV-601-TS_053322 Interactive

Demonstrative Electric Vehicle

The EV-601 is a cutting-edge educational tool that brings the world of electric vehicles into the classroom. Designed specifically for training purposes, this advanced vehicle offers a range of benefits to students, teachers, and educational institutions, through its interactive screens and full component layout.

Teach High-Voltage Safety in a compact classroom sized package through an intuitive, hands-on experiences for high-voltage testing, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) use including gloves and insulated tools, high voltage isolation testing with a mega-ohmmeter, high voltage interlock circuits, first responders’ loops, three phase motor control, high voltage power distribution, and much more. See the EV-601 and the EV-400 at

Thank you to those who have either joined or renewed their membership since April 1, 2024.

Alan Anderson Sierra Vista, AZ

Adam Arndt Washington Terrace, UT

Paul Blair Clovis, NM

Aaron Blount Indianapolis, IN

Matt Boettger Melrose Park, IL

Ron Bosley Sierra Vista, AZ

Elgie Bright Flushing, MI

Michael Cortese San Jose, CA

Darin Cottle Columbus, IN

James Daniels Campbellsport, WI

Alan Darr Lakeland, FL

Rafael DeLeon Trujillo Alto, PR

Richard Donia Cypress, CA

Patrick English Big Rapids, MI

Stephan Fillaga Ogden, UT

Douglas Fowler Bargersville, IN

Shaun Fuller Columbia, MD

Timothy Grass Columbia, SC

Tim Habel Maryland Heights, MO

Collin Harris Kilgore, TX

Dan Hyer Batavia, IL

Roberto Ibarra Fremont, CA

Richard Jaramillo San Bernardino, CA

Tanton Johnson Kilgore, TX

Adil Kassamali Surrey, BC

Chuck Kauffman Wichita, KS

Robert Lyle Houston, TX

Ed Martin Aurora, CO

Stan Moczulski Lancaster, SC

Ryan Munden Kamloops, BC

William Murray Attica, IN

Toby Ohira-Tayama Honolulu, HI

Dennis O’Reilly Sandy, UT

Eric Pruden Williamsport, PA

Pat Robson Calgary, Canada

Al Santini Elgin, IL

Thomas Searle Poplar Grove, IL

Ron Shane El Centro, CA

Michael Shoebroek Austin, TX

Carl Smith Concord, NC

Jeff Starkey Zanesville, OH

Quentin Swan La Crescenta-Montros, CA

Ben Van Meter San Antonio, TX

Bob Vannix

Santa Rosa Valley, CA

James Vest Columbia, SC

David Voulgaris Wharton, TX

David Waring New Braunfels, TX

Keegan Wentz Fort Wayne, IN

Richard Wynder Moses Lake, WA

We encourage you to add to our NACAT tribute with a favorite memory, knowledge, or other significant influence NACAT has had on you Click HERE and submit your contribution!

CONFERENCE & EXPO

JULY 22-25, 2024, INDIANAPOLIS, IN

join us FAMILIES OF NACAT

GATHERING

The "Families of NACAT Gathering" is an opportunity for NACAT conference attendees to meet with each other before the conference Opening General Session With it's monumental 50th anniversary conference, NACAT is proud to have impacted so many individuals and families over the last 50 years and wishes to honor these families with a fun and leisure environment to meet and reconnect

MONDAY, JULY 22, 2024

The most important item to research before traveling: Where are you going to eat? Indianapolis does not disappoint. With their variety of restaurant options, there's something for everyone

Restaurants

Both seasoned travelers and new comers alike need help when visiting a new area.

Things to Do

Whether you ’ re a museum buff, or one that takes advantage of free things in cities, Indianapolis has plenty to offer.

Find out all the information about how you can maximize your stay in Indianapolis during NACAT!

Lifting It RightTM is the world’s best-selling lift safety training program. It’s the industry standard on how to properly operate any vehicle lift and is the only program developed and backed by the technical experts at the lift safety watchdog Automotive Lift Institute (ALI) and leading lift manufacturers.

Millions of students, professional technicians, and at-home mechanics have learned from Lifting It Right how to lift a car, truck, or SUV without causing injury or property damage. The interactive course teaches how to spot, lift and lower a vehicle, maintain load stability, and more.

With an annual subscription, you can offer the interactive course to all your students. Most students complete it in about an hour and will receive a certificate of completion after passing the final exam.

Lifting It RightTM safety manual second edition completely updated and expanded. Order today at autolift.org/store.

2024 NACAT Conference

Agenda

Monday, July 22, 2024

9:00 am - 12:00 pm: Registration

10:30 am - 11:30 am: First-Time Attendee Meeting

11:15 am - 11:45 am: Families of NACAT Gathering

12:00 pm - 2:00 pm: Opening General Session, Keynote, & Lunch

2:00 pm - 2:15 pm: Break

2:15 pm - 5:15 pm Training

4:00 pm - 4:30 pm: Break

6:00 pm - 8:00 pm: Welcome Reception at Don Schumacher Racing

Tuesday, July 23, 2024

Morning: Breakfast (included with Embassy Suites stay)

8:30 am - 11:30 am: Training

10:00 am - 10:30 am: Break

11:30 am - 2:30 pm: Lunch and Exhibits

2:30 pm - 5:30 pm: Training

4:00 pm - 4:30 pm: Break

5:30 pm - 7:15 pm: BBQ Dinner, Networking and Valve Cover Races

Monday, July 22, 2024

Wednesday, July 24, 2024

Morning: Breakfast (included with Embassy Suites stay)

8:30 am - 11:30 am: Training

10:00 am - 10:30 am: Break

11:30 am - 1:00 pm: Lunch and Awards

1:00 pm - 1:15 pm: Break

1:15 pm - 4:15 pm: Training

2:45 pm - 3:15 pm: Break

6:00pm: Dinner at Coachmen Restaurant

Thursday, July 25, 2024

Morning: Breakfast (included with Embassy Suites stay)

8:30 am - 11:30 am: Training

10:00 am - 10:30 am: Break

11:30 am - 12:30 pm: Lunch

12:30 pm - 3:30 pm: Training

2:00 pm - 2:30 pm: Break

S1-1 Developing Better Diagnostic Judgement and Critical Thinking Sponsored by TOPDON 2:15pm 5:15pm Haakan Light

S1-2 Diesel Emissions and Exhaust Aftertreatment Sponsored by ACDelco 2:15pm 5:15pm Rob Roth

S1-3 ECU Architecture Understanding Control Process Theory Sponsored by Megatech 2:15pm 5:15pm Benjamin Wenzel

S1-4 Help Relay The Message! Sponsored by ATech Training 2:15pm 5:15pm Tony Salas

S1-5 Tesla Update & Adding Tesla to Our Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Classroom Sponsored by Joliet Junior College, Pearson Education 2:15pm 5:15pm Curt Ward

S1-6 Tips and Tricks to Best Support You and Your Students Sponsored by Promotive 2:15pm 5:15pm Randy Klitzke, Todd Richardson, Ryan O'Keefe

Keynote Details

Dave Macholz will empower educators to emb change, renew commitments to students, ups as technicians and educators, and prepare the future workforce for today's and tomorrow's technology

The Opening General Session and Keynote be Monday July 22, 2024 from 12:00pm - 2:00pm (includes 1 educational hour)

Welcome Reception D

Included in Conference Package, the Reception is open to all attendees w emphasis on networking The Welco Reception will be hosted by DSM Pre Manufacturing this year

NACAT Welcome Reception: Monday, July 22, 2024 | 6:00-8:00

2024 NACAT Conference

Tuesday, July 23, 2024

Code Training Begins Ends Instructor

S2-1 Automotive Module Programming - Exploring all the levels of programming today Sponsored by TOPDON 8:30am 11:30am Haakan Light

S2-2 Beyond ADAS: What you need to know going forward Sponsored by Burke Porter Group, Ascential Technologies 8:30am 11:30am Pam Oakes

S2-3 Electrical Testing and Wiring Harness Repair Sponsored by ATRA 8:30am 11:30am Keith Clark

S2-4 General Motors Fuel Control Advancements and Diagnosis 8:30am 11:30am Joseph Rananese III

S2-5 Preparing for Electric Vehicle Instruction Sponsored by Electude 8:30am 11:30am David Macholz

S2-6 Teaching Students Proper Signal Acquisition (Hands-On) Sponsored by Consulab 8:30am 11:30am Dick Kreiger

S3-1 Circuit Diagram Analysis - A Framework for Complex Testing and Knowledge Building Sponsored by AESWave 2:30 PM 5:30 PM Jorge Menchu

S3-2 Diagnostic Mindset Mastery for Automotive Service Technician Sponsored by Goodheart-Wilcox Publisher 2:30 PM 5:30 PM Scott Brown, Luke Thompson

S3-3 EV Electronics (Hands-On) Sponsored by Megatech 2:30 PM 5:30 PM Benjamin Wenzel

S3-4 GDI, Forced Induction, and Thermal Management Sponsored by WORLDPAC 2:30 PM 5:30 PM Cameron Conover

S3-5 Making the Educational Leap: Electude's Connect Lineup of Trainers Sponsored by Electude 2:30 PM 5:30 PM Dr Alex Richards

S3-6 Refrigeration Diagnostics and Service Procedures Sponsored by ACDelco 2:30 PM 5:30 PM Rob Roth

Wednesday, July 24, 2024

S4-6

S5-1

S5-2

S5-4 Teaching ADAS (Hands-On) Sponsored by Consulab 1:15pm 4:15pm Al Santini

S5-5 Understanding Today’s New Relay Technology Sponsored by Consulab 1:15pm 4:15pm Dick Kreiger

2024 NACAT Conference

Thursday, July 25, 2024

S6-1 Advances in Modern Performance Tuning Sponsored by The Tuning School 8:30am 11:30am Robert Morreale

S6-2 Communication Bus Diagnostics with Pico Scope Sponsored by WOLRDPAC 8:30am 11:30am Cameron Conover

S6-3 Diesel Aftertreatment & Emissions 8:30am 11:30am Kevin Looney

S6-4 Teaching ADAS Technologies to Pass the ASE L4 Test Through Hands-On Experiments Sponsored by Lucas-Nuelle 8:30am 11:30am Dirk Niemeyer

S6-5 Teaching Electricity So Students Understand Sponsored by CDX 8:30am 11:30am Keith Santini

S6-6 Teaching EV High Voltage in the Classroom (Hands-On) Sponsored by Consulab 8:30am 11:30am Al Santini

S7-1 Advances in Automotive Technology Sponsored by Lincoln Tech 12:30

S7-2 EV Plug-In-Power Tips Sponsored by Delphi

S7-3 Teaching the Essentials of Electric Vehicle Technology Sponsored by AutoEDU 12:30

S7-4 The Level 2 ASE (xEV) Safety Exam and Program Changes Sponsored by Joliet Junior College, Pearson Education 12:30

3:30

Curt Ward

S7-5 TPMS Sponsored by Continental 12:30 PM 3:30 PM Allen Selzler

S7-6 Visual Tools for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Instruction Sponsored by AESWave 12:30 PM 3:30

Pricing Details

Scott Brown

TRAINING COURSE SELECTION: Selections must be made in advance and are available on a first-come, first-served basis MEALS: Breakfast is included with an Embassy Suites reservation Lunch is served Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday Refreshment breaks are each day NACAT Member Discounts: NACAT Members receive a $100 discount on registration packages Visit nacat org to become a member or click the add-on option during your registration

REGISTRATION & PAYMENT: To register, please complete the online registration form at www nacat org Registrations must be received no later than July 15, 2024 Registrations accepted ONSITE ONLY after July 15, 2024 We cannot guarantee availability for late or on-site registrants A confirmation letter and detailed conference information will be e-mailed in early-July

CANCELLATION AND REFUND POLICY: Full refunds will be granted, less a $30 processing fee, if cancellation is received in writing by June 15, 2024 No refunds will be granted after June 15, 2024 Name substitutions will be accepted

Logo on NACAT Website

Spotlight in NACAT News

½ page article in the NACAT News

One sponsored email per year

Welcome Allied Member graphic on social media platforms

NACAT Allied Member logo to use on your website

Priority sign-up for NACAT Conference

Discount exhibitor space for NACAT Conference

Bold listing in the directory for NACAT Conference

Hybrid & electric vehicle corner

Curt Ward

Professor at Joliet Junior College

Exploring a High-Voltage Air Conditioning Compressor

As I write this article, the semester is ending, and I am looking forward to the summer instructor conference schedule. As part of our partnership with Toyota, our automotive program at JJC recently received several high-voltage AC compressors. These units are a remarkable combination of refrigeration and high-voltage electricity. One of the units has been disassembled and a demonstrator has been created. In this article, I will share some of what was learned during the disassembly.

When servicing a high-voltage air conditioning system, particularly the compressor, it is important to take all safety precautions as described by the manufacturer. This includes safely depowering the high-voltage system, verifying that high-voltage is not present, and wearing the proper personal protective equipment.

The high-voltage compressor that was disassembled is made for Toyota by DENSO in Japan. It was originally installed on a 2023 Toyota Corolla hybrid (See Figure 1 – Compressor). DENSO manufactures several different compressors for Toyota hybrid vehicles; however, the main differences are the external compressor mounting locations. The internal working components are essentially the same. The compressor can be used in a refrigeration system that uses either HFC-134a or HFC-1234yf refrigerant. It uses ND-11 refrigerant oil. ND-11 is a POE oil that has better insulating properties than PAG oil, which protects winding insulation and prevents a loss of isolation.

The rear, or “dry” portion of the compressor contains the inverter. The inverter converts the DC voltage from the high-voltage battery to AC voltage for use by the three-phase permanent magnet motor. The operation of the inverter generates a significant amount of heat. The heat is dissipated into the compressor housing via a large heatsink and a generous application of heat transfer grease (See Figure 2Inverter).

The core of the compressor is a permanent magnet motor and the compressor scroll. The permanent magnet motor is supported on either end with a ball bearing (See Figure 3 – Motor). The permanent magnet motor is paired with a traditional wire-wound stator. The scroll portion of the compressor is very similar to a traditional 12-volt compressor (See Figure 4 – Compressor Scroll). The combination of the scroll-type compressor and the electric motor allows the climate control system the ability to provide the desired level of cooling while minimizing the consumption of the electrical storage capacity.

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Figure 1: Compressor

Figure 2: Inverter

One of the design features that makes this compressor unique is the location of the inlet, or low side refrigerant line. The low-pressure gas enters the compressor near the permanent magnet motor and is used to dissipate operational heat. As an added benefit, any microscopic amounts of liquid refrigerant that might return to the compressor will be evaporated by the heat absorption, which protects the operation of the compressor scroll.

The compressor has no serviceable internal parts. Any internal failure, mechanical or electrical, will require the replacement of the compressor. Recently, a similar type of compressor was found to have a catastrophic internal mechanical failure. Further investigation revealed the customer had tried to refill an empty refrigeration system with off-the-shelf refrigerant from the local parts store. A combination of a lack of lubricant and an overcharged system was the likely cause of the failure. After the compressor was replaced, the source of the refrigerant leak was identified and repaired. The system was properly evacuated and recharged and the system’s proper operation was verified. Had the vehicle been properly repaired the first time, it is likely the compressor would not have failed.

I will finish this article with the same offer I make after each of my presentations. If you are interested in getting started in the process of adding hybrid and electric vehicles to your curriculum or want more information, please feel free to reach out. I am more than willing to sit down in-person or online and share my experiences. Are you looking for a classroom textbook? Reach out to Pearson and ask for a review copy of the all-new Electric and Hybrid Electric Vehicle text that Jim Halderman and I co-authored. It is a comprehensive text covering

Figure 3: Motor

Embracing Technological Change in Automotive Education

This keynote will empower educators to embrace change, renew commitments to students, upskill as technicians and educators, and prepare the future workforce for today's and tomorrow's technology.

Keynote Speaker Keynote Speaker

Asst. Dean for Transportation Programs Suffolk County Community College

training tour.

This tour isn’t just about spreading knowledge. it’s about empowering the next generation of automotive leaders. Led by AVI’s elite trainers, workshops and seminars will cover everything from engine diagnostics to electric vehicles. Partnering with AVI and industry leaders, Bosch is building a collaborative network to drive the automotive industry forward. Whether you’re a pro or an enthusiast, we hope you join us on this journey!

The following is a basic course description.

Are you ready to service the vehicles of today and tomorrow? Hands-on face-to-face training for EV (level 2)

Gain comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in electric vehicle technology covering fundamentals, motor principals, power electronics, battery technology, safety systems, workplace safety, and maintenance and troubleshooting protocols.

Click here for more information on tour training dates, a full tour schedule, and to register.

Tips & Tricks

Luke Thompson

Author, Goodheart-willcox publisher

Math is Part of the Trade…It Should be Part of the Training

Most CTE students take standard math courses taught by math instructors who may find it challenging to demonstrate specific applications in a field such as automotive technology and thus show why learning math is essential to career success. While these students may have received instruction in basic math previously, many of them cannot perform simple calculations or measurements and will not be motivated to improve their math skills without seeing direct applications to their areas of interest.

A common exchange between instructors and students across our systems—and especially those involving students enrolled in mathematics—typically plays out like this:

Instructor: “Today we are going to learn how to divide fractions.” Or “Class, the formula for sine is the opposite side divided by the hypotenuse.”

Student: “Why do we need to learn this?” Or “I will never use this in my life.”

Statistically speaking, the students are on to something. It is unlikely that we will ever find ourselves dividing fractions into adulthood, so why do we still teach it across our school systems?

The common answer is that grade level mathematics is part of the standard curriculum, these math problems will be on the statewide comprehensive exams, and this math concept is required in order to learn even more math concepts that are increasingly difficult.

While these are all valid responses, they will likely not gain cheerful acceptance from a high school junior or technical college student.

Let’s change lanes for a minute and talk about the most common feedback I have heard from service managers, technical recruiters, maintenance managers, as well as other instructors and educational professionals. A common sentiment that I often hear sounds something like this. “I need to hire people who can think.” Or “I can’t find people who can diagnose these difficult systems.” This even comes up in conversations as, “I really just need techs who can follow directions, analyze the situation, and make an informed, thoughtful decision.”

I think it's time for a reframe.

When I talk about a reframe, I am referring to a concept I learned about in Scott Adams’ book, Reframe your Brain. Scott is the widely known creator of the Dilbert comics, and he has also written several books that I recommend you consider adding to your summer reading list.

We must reframe the way we explain to our students why and what they are learning. Students in our technical trades classes are learning to think. They are learning to solve problems. They are learning to

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perform the scientific method of hypothesis: testing, analyzing, deciding. In our classrooms and shops, learning situations should be thinking situations, and we need to ensure we foster a place where we as instructors push our students to think problems through for themselves.

What can we do as instructors to nurture these vital skills?

1. Guide students to solve their own problems by asking “why do you think?” or “how is that?” type questions to deepen their thinking.

2. Provide relevant, real-world examples that can be directly applied to the technical role or training goals.

3. Provide practice examples that promote diagnostic thought on a regular basis.

As an educator and an author, I am keenly aware of the importance of learning to think and have found many ways to cultivate this important skill in students. Math for Automotive Technicians contains more than 100 case study examples that link relevant automotive scenarios to arithmetic and problem solving. This approach allows for a true integration of math and skilled trade instruction. Each section in Maintenance and Light Repair Technician includes diagnostic scenario questions designed to promote thought and discussion. As educators in the trades, our role requires a reframe, a new way of making students learn to think, to diagnose and solve problems, and to make thoughtful, informed decisions.

Luke D. Thompson, M.Ed. is author of G-W’s innovative Maintenance and Light Repair Technician Suite and Math for Automotive Technicians. Since early 2018, Luke has been a technical training instructor for Tesla, Inc. Previously, Luke taught for over a decade as a secondary automotive technology teacher in Michigan and Washington. Throughout his teaching career, he achieved MLR accreditation for the schools where he taught. Luke has also served as an Evaluation Team Leader (ETL) for ASE and received the ASE Industry Education Alliance “Outstanding Instructor Award.” Luke earned his associate degree in automotive technology from Henry Ford Community College, his bachelor's degree in secondary CTE from Wayne State, and his master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from the University of Washington. Luke also holds various ASE certifications, including Master Certified Automobile Technician and Hybrid/ Electric Vehicle Specialist. Prior to his teaching career, Luke worked as a Prototype Technician at Ford Motor Company’s Research & Development Division in Dearborn, Michigan.

Luke will be providing training at NACAT 2024 Conference & Expo, July 22-25, in Indianapolis, IN.

Pure mathematics is, in its way, the poetry of logical ideas. Albert Einstein

THE ULTIMATE SOLUTION FOR MASTERING HIGH-VOLTAGE EV SYSTEMS (SAFELY)

By Jimmy Dinsmore

ConsuLab

The demand for electric vehicles by consumers speaks volumes and therefore the demand for technicians to work on those increased EVs will rise as well.

A quick glance at the numbers shows a glimpse into the near future. EV sales jumped 55% from 2021 to 2022. Then in 2022 there were more than 10 million electric vehicles sold globally. That accounts for 14% of all new car sales in 2022 (were electric).

In the United States 2.44 million electric vehicles were registered in 2024.

The increase in electric vehicles (EVs) on our roads presents an expanding need for education and training opportunities for technicians. As the automotive industry continues towards electric drivetrains, technicians must aquire new skills to e ectively service these vehicles especially with high voltage HV systems.

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This makes the EV-400 a wonderful training aid for first responders as well!

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ConsuLab: Leading the way in innovation and education.

By: Pete Rosenbury, Assistant Director for Communications and Marketing at SIU Carbondale

Since he was a child, Nathan Bulthuis has been “taking stuff apart and working with my hands.” That acumen will allow Bulthuis, a junior in Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s School of Automotive, to show his skills on an international stage this fall.

Bulthuis will represent the United States in automotive technology at the 2024 WorldSkills Competition, Sept. 1015, in Lyon, France. The 47th annual contest is expected to bring more than 1,500 contenders from more than 65 countries to take part in 62 skills challenges, including construction and building technology, creative arts and fashion, manufacturing, engineering, transportation and logistics. He is one of nine members — the only one in automotive technology — on the 2024 WorldSkills USA team.

“Being selected for the United States WorldSkills team is an amazing opportunity to not only represent the country but also SIU Carbondale in international competition,” said Bulthuis. “It also provides an excellent opportunity to learn about other cultures and other strategies for designing and servicing vehicles.”

Bulthuis, who will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in automotive technology in May 2025, transferred to SIU Carbondale last fall after earning an associate degree in automotive service technology from Joliet Junior College The Lockport Township High School graduate from Homer Glen was the Illinois state gold medalist in spring 2023 and won the national title in automotive service technology in August representing Illinois, just prior to starting classes at SIU.

Bulthuis said his first experiences working on cars were with his dad doing small jobs such as brake and oil changes. He took his first formal automotive class when he was a sophomore in high school.

“That is when I first started to consider a career in the automotive industry,” he said.

Training for the international stage

Capturing the two earlier titles helped Bulthuis “understand how I react to the pressure and stress of competition. The competition also helped me understand the areas where I need to focus my training.”

The contest in France will consist of five sections spread over three days and is “designed to test almost every skill a technician would use, particularly diagnostic process, attention to detail and time management,” Bulthuis said.

During the winter break, Bulthuis went to Pittsburg (Kansas) State University to train with automotive instructors there “who ran me through some stations that were set up to emulate the WorldSkills competition as closely as possible,” Bulthuis said. He will also be working closely with Drew Croxell, SIU’s program director, to develop and execute a training plan to help prepare.

‘Easy choice’ to attend SIU

After graduating from Joliet Junior College, attending SIU Carbondale’s nationally recognized automotive program was an “easy choice,” Bulthuis said.

Continued on Page 29

Continued on Page 29

Nathan Bulthuis, a junior in automotive technology in SIU Carbondale’s School of Automotive, stands with a row of transmissions. Bulthuis will represent the United States in the 2024 WorldSkills Competition in September. (Photo by SIU Carbondale University Communications and Marketing.)

Continued From Page 28

“As much as I loved working on cars, it was not something that I wanted to do every day for the next 40 years,” he said. “Attending the automotive program at SIU Carbondale provided more opportunities on the management and corporate side of the automotive industry.

“The SIU Automotive program has definitely lived up to its well-deserved reputation as one of the best schools for automotive technology. There have been a lot of opportunities presented by attending the automotive program at SIU, and I look forward to exploring all the opportunities offered.”

Croxell said Bulthuis is “talented, sharp and is driven to succeed at the competition and represent SIU Automotive.”

SIU’s competitive admissions program has 310 students. Each year, dozens of transfer students with completed associate degrees seek to continue at SIU for their bachelor’s degree. The caliber of students the program receives “means our unique, four-year automotive degree is attracting top talent statewide and nationally,” Croxell said.

“We have the reputation of being the best program in the country, and those striving to be their best, will often see our program for the rich educational experiences and career opportunities.”

(Please note: Bulthuis is pronounced Bul-tice)

This article was used with permission and was originally published in Southern Illinois University News on April 29. 2024. NACAT would like to thank SIU Carbondale and wish Nathan Bulthuis the best of fortune at the 2024 WorldSkills Competition.

We've Been Everywhere, Man! 38 Locations Through 50 Years of NACAT Conferences

Ever wonder all of the sites at which a NACAT Conference has been held? It has been a little of everywhere. Some locations have hosted more than once and others just a single time. The following is a non-chronological, alphabetized list of the 38 locations a conference has been held. How many have you been able to attend?

• Ann Arbor, MI

• Arlington, VA

• Azusa, CA

• Big Rapids, MI

• Calgary, AB

• Charleston, SC

• Charlotte, NC

• Columbus, OH

• Covington, KY

• Crystal Lake, IL

• Daytona Beach, FL

• Edmonton, AB

• Fort Worth, TX

• Greenville, SC

• High Point, NC

• Houston, TX

• Indianapolis, IN

• James Town, NC

• Joliet, IL

• London, ON

• Long Beach, CA

• Myrtle Beach, SC

• Naperville, IL

• Oakland, CA

• Orem, UT

• Pasadena, TX

• Pueblo, CO

• Quebec City, QC

• Salt Lake City, UT

• Sanford, FL

• Seward, AK

• Spokane, WA

• Tyler, TX

• Vincennes, IN

• Warren, MI

• West Lafayette, IN

• Williamsport, PA

• Winnipeg, MB

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