The modern automobile has become a technically complex device to maintain and repair. The technician must call upon knowledge of sound mechanical and electrical principles to service the integrated systems of the automobile. These skills are needed by individuals to enter the work force as entry-level automotive service technicians. Intensive career preparation is provided through a combination of classroom instructions and hands-on experience. The Automotive Technology program at Franklin Technology Center helps you obtain the skills you need to succeed in the automotive service industry.

*Information technology proficiency is not required.

To be considered for acceptance into the Automotive Technology program, interested individuals must:

• be a minimum of 17 years of age upon entering the program
• submit application form and fee
• submit official high school transcript, or GED/HiSET certificate
• contact FTC Financial Aid Office
• Attend orientation session prior to class start date

Step 1

Submit Application with Fee to Franklin Technology Center

In order to be considered for admission into Franklin Technology Center, the first step in the process is to receive an application packet and complete the following:

• Read the program sheet
• Review program cost sheet and keep a copy (Important: The school reserves the right to adjust program tuition and fees prior to the start of the program.)
• Complete & sign application form
• Return signed application form, consent forms if applicable, and non-refundable $50 application fee to the address below or submitted online at franklintechnologycenter.com.

Step 2

Transcripts

Once Step 1 is completed, provide the following:

• Official high school or GED/HiSET transcripts. It is your responsibility to request your transcript from the High School you graduated from or the state your received your GED/HiSET from. Please have requested copies mailed to:

Franklin Technology Center

810 S Wall Ave

Joplin, MO 64801

Step 3

Contact Financial Aid

• All applicants must make initial contact with the Financial Aid Coordinator, even if not planning to use financial aid monies to pay for the program. The Financial Aid Coordinator may be reached at 417-680-0004, ext. 2062.
• The FAFSA must be completed online at student aid website. Call the Financial Aid Coordinator at 417-680-0004, ext. 2062 if assistance is needed in completing the FAFSA.
• If a previous loan that was in default status, and the requirements to take care of the default status as been completed, a letter from the State Department of Education confirming that the loan is no longer in default status MUST be provided. Failure to do so will result in the application being removed from the applicant pool.

Step 4

Acceptance into Program

• The Program Coordinator will contact applicants if an entrance examination is required, if not a letter of acceptance will be received.

Step 5

Orientation

All students will be required to attend orientation prior to the first day of class. Students will be contacted regarding program-specific orientation date, time and location after acceptance.

Please direct all correspondence and inquiries to:

Franklin Technology Center

810 S. Wall Avenue

Joplin, MO 64801

Telephone: 417-680-0004

Fax: 417-680-0005

*Disclaimer: The programs and courses require a minimum number of students in order for the classes to be offered.

• Safety and Foundations
• Steering and Suspension
• Brakes
• Electrical and Electronics
• Heating and Air Conditioning
• Engine Performance

Automotive Technology is designed to teach the various mechanical aspects of the Automotive service field such as:

Entry Level Employment Opportunities:

• Retail and Wholesale Automobile Dealers
• Independent Automotive Repair Shops
• Automobile Manufacturing Plants
• Automotive Parts Supply Stores
• Self-Employment
• Automotive Service Facilities

Certifications:

Students will ASE test in the following areas:

• A4 - Suspension & Steering
• A5 - Brakes
• A6 - Electrical/Electronic Systems
• A7 - Heating & Air Conditioning
• A8 - Engine Performance

 Additional ASE A-Series testing optional.

• Students will also test for EPA Section 609 certification.

Students will have the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge and theory to hands-on diagnosis and repair work. Areas of hands-on training may include steering and suspension, tire alignment, brake replacement, rotator replacement, electrical, oil changes, heating an AC performance, general maintenance, and diagnostic testing.

* Instruction subject to change, as determined by FTC.

Quality classroom instruction combined with project experience is provided during the 9 month Automotive Technology program.

Program Outline *

• Safety and Foundations
• Steering and Suspension Systems
• Brake Systems
• Electrical and Electronics Systems
• Heating and Air Conditioning
• Engine Performance

*  Curriculum subject to change as determined  by  FTC.

*  Program information subject to change.

Automotive Technology 2024-25 Calendar.pdf

Joplin Schools Calendar 2024-2025.pdf

GM Women's Retail Network.pdf

GM Minority Dealer Development.pdf

Shawn Buffalo - Automotive Technology Instructor

Education: General Motors Diagnostic School-Bowling Green, KY

US Military-Mechanics

Shawn is the owner and GM of Buffalo Warrior Way Auto. His prior experience was gained as a soldier in the US Army for 22 years. His entire career in the military was spent doing repairs to vehicles while deployed. He was often the motivational force that pushed fellow soldiers to succeed at keeping equipment operational. 

Shawn is a master open water scuba instructor and in his spare time he likes to teach scuba diving as a hobby.

Gwen Haase 

Phone: 417-680-0004 

Fax: 417-680-0005

Email: gwendalynhaase@joplinschools.org

$10,400.00

$2,133.00

Fundamentals of Auto Tech 3e w/ Student Workbook

ISBN# 978-1-284-26587-3   $175

EPA Manual

ITEM# 609PPD   $10

Textbooks Total $185

$12,718.00