Course Descriptions

Active and Dynamic Fuel Management (S4-1) by Rob Roth

This Instructor-led Training Seminar focuses on the operation and diagnostic procedures of Active and Dynamic Fuel Management Systems. Modern engines employ cylinder deactivation strategies to improve fuel economy, power, and emissions. Course content includes function and operation of cylinder deactivation systems. Various Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) will be highlighted.

Automotive Classroom Tips and Tricks (S2-1) by Randy Klitzke

The training will include time tested tips, tricks, and props for enhanced student engagement in both the lecture classroom and lab setting. The presentation will include topics such as simplifying rules, reducing late work, and promoting self-discipline; and will more so emphasize props that promote hands-on learning of both concepts and difficult to teach tasks.

AVTECC Certification (S6-1) by David Macholz

The AVTECC EV Safe Certification is a hands-on EV safety certification that can be delivered at the end of a course or program of study at a high school, college, or professional training organization.

The AVTECC EV Safe Certification is based on a task analysis that was created by a panel of industry experts in the area of electric vehicle repair.

During this course, instructors will learn about the EV Safe Certification and how to deliver it at their institution. The key component to delivery of the AVTECC EV Safe Certification is that the Instructor must be certified. During this course the attendees will each participate in a hands-on certification that involves preparing a hybrid or electric vehicle for work on the high voltage system.

Circuit Color Coding (S1-1) by Jorge Menchu

Wiring diagram circuit color-coding and techniques for making simplified circuit diagrams

Developing Better Diagnostic Judgement and Critical Thinking (S7-2) by Haakan Light

In many situations with shops and technicians, the place the “train comes off the tracks” is during the diagnostic process. This class is focused on helping technicians define, refine, and improve their diagnostic process. We work to improve the understanding and necessity of standard operating procedures. The instructor will highlight and provide examples of how building a critical thinking oriented mindset into EVERYTHING will enable a technician to have greater success in all aspects of their daily tasks. All discussion is framed with an adaptive approach mindful of efficiency and wide applicability to all makes and models. Methods of data collection are addressed as well as the benefits and limitations of many tools and testing techniques. All skill levels can benefit from this class.

Diagnosis and Repair of a HEV and EV According to ASE L3 in a 100% Safe Manner (S2-3) by Dirk Niemeyer

Training Description:

This comprehensive training course is designed for automotive technicians who wish to master the safe and effective diagnosis and repair of Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) and Electric Vehicles (EVs) in line with ASE L3 (Automotive Service Excellence) standards. Participants will gain hands-on experience and in-depth knowledge of the specific tools, techniques, and safety protocols required to service HEVs and EVs.

The course will cover key areas including:

• Safety Procedures: Best practices for working with high-voltage systems in HEVs and EVs, including proper isolation, de-energization, and personal protective equipment (PPE) usage to ensure a safe working environment.
• System Diagnosis: How to accurately diagnose issues in both hybrid and electric powertrains, including battery management systems (BMS), electric motors, power electronics, and charging systems.
• Repair and Maintenance: Step-by-step processes for repairing or replacing damaged components while adhering to ASE L3 guidelines.
• Troubleshooting: Techniques for identifying and resolving complex issues, including software and electrical malfunctions in HEV/EV systems.
• Industry Best Practices: Up-to-date procedures for the most common repairs and preventative maintenance to extend the life and performance of HEVs and EVs.

Diesel Aftertreatment (S5-1) by Kevin Looney

This class will focus on the components and theory of operation of modern diesel exhaust aftertreatment systems.

Fault Finding in EV and All Platforms (S3-1) by Jerry Hampton

The tools are the same the vehicles substantially different, this session will show how many cross-over skills from the gas engine to the EV are common and basic. A DMM and oscilloscope will be the base tool of this hands-on session.

Ford 6.7L Powerstroke Generational Updates (S6-2) by Kevin Looney

Ford 6.7L Powerstroke, Basic engine design and features plus discussion about the evolution of this very successful engine platform. Designed in-house by Ford and released in 2011, there have been significant changes throughout the years. We'll cover fuel, air induction, EGR and aftertreatment system changes. Time permitting we'll discuss OE scan tool changes.

Gasoline Direct Injection (S5-2) by Rob Roth

This Instructor-led seminar provides an overview of Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) fuel system design, operation, and servicing. Diagnosing and servicing of GDI fuel systems requires an understanding of fuel delivery systems. This course covers the operation of gasoline high-pressure systems and low-pressure systems as related to the GDI system. Direct fuel injectors, fuel control systems and combined direct and port fuel injection systems are discussed. Diagnosis and service procedures using scan tools and special tools required for servicing GDI systems will also be discussed.

Good C.O.P./Bad C.O.P. - Advanced Ignition Diagnostics (S4-2) by Dave Hobbs

Ignition systems are the "heartbeat" of an engine. In this intermediate-advanced course, we'll cover:

• Spark Systems - Ignition Circuit Review
• C.O.P.'s of Every Variety - 2-wire, 3-wire, and 4-wire
• Meters and Bench Testing: What Can We Still Do?
• C.O.P. Diagnostic Feedback Circuits & C.O.P. Performance DTCs
• Scoping Voltage and Current: The "EKG and MRI" of Ignition Testing
• Misfire Madness: Remembering the Simple Things That Steal the Spark

High-Voltage Safety 2025 (S5-3) by Jack Rosebro

How much time are we committing to a discussion of safety, including labs, in our hybrid and EV courses? More importantly, how careful are the technicians already working in the field? This course presents an more detailed overview of electrical shock, electrical injury, and the rationale behind the safety standards developed in the last century to protect workers. Also on deck will be PPE, meters, AC vs. DC shock, and equipotential bonding, and share some of the safety labs that we use back at the shop. We will definitely cover more than simply HV gloves and CAT ratings. Class size limited to 30.

Hybrid and Electric Vehicle A/C Diagnosis (S4-3) by Curt Ward

This class is for the instructor who wants to know more about the operation and diagnosis of the thermal management systems of hybrid and electric vehicles. Passenger compartment, high-voltage battery and powertrain heating and cooling will be covered. Topics that will be covered in the presentation will include heat pump systems, PTC liquid element heaters, reverse cycle HVAC systems, and air-to-air PTC heaters. Case studies of system failures will be included in the presentation.

Hybrid Electric Vehicle/Electric Vehicle Battery Safety essentials Instructor Certification(S1-2) by Bob McGinn

Presentation will be a detailed overview of HEV/EV safety topics essential to instructors which are unique from the safety topics taught to students. Upon completion of the presentation and post op Q and A, members present will be admitted to the CCAR - Electude training site for access to the certification course module and certification post test. Members passing the certification test at 80% or better will earn a certificate. A hand out will be available for members at the start of the presentation.

Increase Teacher Efficiency by 200%; Create Student e-Cheat Sheets and Lab Transcripts; Save Time With Your Work/Job Sheets (S7-1) by Elie Massabki

Students don't get enough hands-on training in school, they don't remember everything they learnt after they graduate and they can benefit from an electronic "cheat sheet" that reminds them of all the tasks to perform for a given repair while on the job. Also, students will be valued a lot more by prospective employers if they had lab transcripts with grades of all the tasks they practiced. In this highly interactive workshop, we will discuss the challenges that you, the industry and students face and propose solutions to help all stakeholders. We will also brainstorm and discuss out of the box ideas on how to give students more hands-on training with limited resources and in the limited time they have in school and in the labs. Still struggling with your worksheets or managing them the hard way? Habits are hard to break but there are MUCH better and more efficient ways out there.

Introducing PWM And Frequency to Your Students (S3-2) by Jim Wilson

Join ATech Training for an exciting hands-on exploration of pulse width modulation and frequency. Discover teaching strategies and new learning opportunities utilizing ATech’s latest electrical diagnostic training equipment. Together we will explore the principles and applications of pulse width modulation and frequency controls found in today’s automotive systems.

Introducing PWM And Frequency to Your Students (S4-4) by Jim Wilson

Join ATech Training for an exciting hands-on exploration of pulse width modulation and frequency. Discover teaching strategies and new learning opportunities utilizing ATech’s latest electrical diagnostic training equipment. Together we will explore the principles and applications of pulse width modulation and frequency controls found in today’s automotive systems.

Keeping It Cool - Thermal Management Update for Conventional & Electrified Vehicles (S5-4) by Dave Hobbs

This course provides up to date information on all things related to thermal management on gas, diesel, HEV, PHEV and BEV passenger cars and LD trucks. Topis include;

• The Why’s and How’s on Electrically Heated (a.k.a. Mapped) Thermostats
• Real World P0128 (Thermostat Performance) Case Study
• The Why’s and How’s of Active Cooling Systems (Electric Water Pumps)
• Scan Tool PIDs to Monitor with Active Cooling Systems
• Variable Displacement Control Solenoids / Regulators
• Tips on Scan Tool & Manifold Gauge Diagnostics
• V7 Clutch Engages but No Displacement (Real World Case Study)
• High Voltage Compressors / Types of AC Powered Compressors
• Service Precautions for Technician Safety & Compressor Longevity

MACS Section 609 Certification Prep Class and Test "For Educators" (S1-3) by Steve Schaeber

Join Steve Schaeber, MACS manager of service training, for a comprehensive Section 609 test prep class focused on refrigerant handling, recycling, and certification, as mandated by the US EPA.

This class is tailored for educators and presented in a "train-the-trainer" format, making it an excellent opportunity to deepen your understanding of mobile A/C topics that you can pass on to your students. Steve will engage participants in a Q&A analysis covering the history, politics, and theories behind these crucial subject addressing the questions educators frequently encounter.

By the end of the class, participants will take the test to become Section 609 Certified, qualifying them to work on vehicles using R-12, R-134a, and R-1234yf refrigerants.

After successfully completing this class and passing the 609 test, educators can apply to become a "MACS 609 Test Proctor," allowing them to teach the MACS 609 Certification Test Prep Class for students at their school. This opportunity not only enhances your credibility as an instructor but also empowers you to provide up-to-date knowledge and skills directly to your students. Don’t miss this chance to elevate your teaching and ensure your students are well-prepared for the industry!

Preparing Students for the Hybrid and Electrified Vehicle Repair Industry (S2-4) by Russell Hutton

The course will outline how to structure a program for the electrified vehicle industry and its requirements. It will be presented by a certified Hybrid and EV specialist who is still working in the industry and has over 40 years of automotive repair knowledge.

Reflashing, Programing, Schools and Issues (S2-4) by Keith Santini

In this session we will look at some of the various reflashing software option for various manufacturers. Issues that can occur during the process, and how to help prevent problems. Group discussion will be encouraged.

Roundtable Discussion: Challenges & Successes in Post Secondary Automotive Education (S3-3)

Join fellow post secondary automotive instructors for an engaging and collaborative roundtable discussion! This session provides a unique opportunity to share insights, strategies, and experiences with peers who understand the joys and challenges of teaching automotive technology at the post secondary level.

Key topics include:

• Work/Life Balance: Strategies to maintain a healthy equilibrium between teaching and personal life.
• Professional Development: Discover growth opportunities and ways to stay current in the ever-evolving automotive field.
• Student Engagement & Classroom Management: Explore techniques to keep students motivated, manage disruptions, and create an effective learning environment.
• Open Forum: Bring your own challenges and questions to gain valuable perspectives and solutions from your peers.

Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a newer instructor, this discussion is designed to leave you feeling inspired, supported, and better equipped for the classroom.

Roundtable Discussion: Challenges & Successes in Secondary Automotive Education (S3-4)

Join fellow secondary automotive instructors for an engaging and collaborative roundtable discussion! This session provides a unique opportunity to share insights, strategies, and experiences with peers who understand the joys and challenges of teaching automotive technology at the secondary level.

Key topics include:

• Work/Life Balance: Strategies to maintain a healthy equilibrium between teaching and personal life.
• Professional Development: Discover growth opportunities and ways to stay current in the ever-evolving automotive field.
• Student Engagement & Classroom Management: Explore techniques to keep students motivated, manage disruptions, and create an effective learning environment.
• Open Forum: Bring your own challenges and questions to gain valuable perspectives and solutions from your peers.

Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a newer instructor, this discussion is designed to leave you feeling inspired, supported, and better equipped for the classroom.

Teaching ADAS Hands-On (S2-5) by Al Santini

Using 2 individual trainers, we will see how each of the common sensors function on a modern ADAS system. After an intro, we will measure and tape off target points and adjust the sensors. This is a hands-on seminar where you ill actually do the setting of camera, Lidar, and radar sensors in a classroom setting. The class will have a handout.

Teaching EV Safety and Circuits in the Classroom (S1-4) by Al Santini

This seminar will first go thru the safety aspect of Electric Vehicles and what we MUST do in an automotive program prior to bringing EV's into the curriculum. We will then move onto the High Voltage Interlock and High Voltage circuits measuring various voltages. This will give instructors a better understanding of how the various modules are wired, run and diagnosed by the system. We will use ConsuLab's EV-400 trainer with 2-3 instructors on each unit. This is a hands-on class.

Teaching Hands-On Skills in the Automotive Classroom (S5-5) by David Macholz

When students leave our programs, it is imperative to make sure they have the skills they need for success. This course will provide an overview of teaching the kinesthetic learner and provide instructors with a plan to create meaningful learning opportunities based on strong educational foundations. Special attention will be given to designing competency-based instructional experiences and evaluating student skills. Examples and success stories from programs across the country will be highlighted.

Teaching the Essentials of Electric Vehicle Technology (S6-3) by Curt Ward

This class is for the instructor who wants to incorporate Electric Vehicle (EV) technology into their curriculum. This session will offer practical guidance and valuable insights into enhancing your existing program or laying the roadmap for a new program. Teaching features that can be implemented into any automotive curriculum will be the highlight of this presentation.

The Fundamentals of Modern Transmission Controls and Logic (S4-5) by Keith Clark

This course comprehensively examines the technology behind modern transmissions and how they are controlled to create a seamless driving experience for the operator. Using a transmission, we will explore the anatomy of a shift, failure strategies, predictive powertrain management, transmission fluid-related strategies, solenoid characterization, and more.

We will also introduce diagnostic procedures to establish the root cause of a customer complaint. You will get an up-close look at the internal workings of modern transmission, pointing out areas of concern, related drivability symptoms, diagnosis, and repair.

Whether you rebuild or just remove and replace transmissions, this class will provide valuable information to help you more proficiently service, diagnose, and repair transmission-related customer complaints.

TPMS: Back to Basics (S6-4) by Sean Lannoo

In this three-hour session, we will explore the fundamentals of Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS), emphasizing the critical role they play in vehicle safety and performance. We will discuss the necessity of changing service kits, detailing their components and the consequences of using worn or outdated kits on TPMS efficiency. Additionally, we will provide guidelines for regular maintenance and the timely replacement of these kits.

We will also delve into TPMS sensor programming, covering the programming process and its significance for accurate tire pressure readings. Participants will learn about common challenges encountered during sensor programming and effective solutions. Furthermore, we will explain the function of tire valve stems within the TPMS, offering step-by-step instructions for their replacement, including required tools and safety precautions. The session will conclude with a recap of the importance of TPMS maintenance and an encouragement for technicians to prioritize these practices to enhance vehicle safety and performance.

Traction Batteries, Power Electronics and Electric Motor Systems for Electric Vehicles (S6-5) by Nelson Kelly

The systems and processes used in energy conversion for electric vehicles are very different than those for conventional fossil-fueled internal combustion vehicles. In this session, the high-voltage traction battery, electric power conversion systems, and electric motor/generator systems used in different types of electric vehicles (EVs) will be explained. The electric power conversion process in DC-DC converters and DC-AC inverters, collectively referred to as power electronics, will be discussed. DC-DC converters are used to take the high voltage DC from an electric vehicle battery and use it to charge the 12-volt battery. The conversion of high-voltage DC electricity produced by the EV battery to three-phase AC electricity for the EV motor in the power inverter module is fundamentally important to the efficiency and high-acceleration of electric vehicles. AC electricity is used by three-phase AC motors to propel an electric vehicle. The power conversion process, including motor speed and torque output, is precisely controlled by the bi-directional power inverter in response to driver inputs. The testing and diagnosis of the traction battery system, power electronics, and electric motor systems used on electric vehicles will be described.

Utilizing AI to Develop Class Materials (S1-5) by Dr. Alexander Richards

With AI developments happening daily and the onset of future generations who will grow up with the technology, teachers need to stay informed on how AI is best utilized in the classroom. As with any disruptive technology, a heaping dose of caution is encouraged; however, the benefits to teachers who are strapped for time or looking for easy-to-implement engagement activities are numerous. This session will discuss the "early" days of AI; capabilities and use cases, as well as discuss reasons teachers can lean into the idea of using AI in the classroom to better their learning environment, keep students engaged, and reduce the amount of time they spend on tasks that don't necessarily benefit their students. Presented by Electude USA product manager, Dr. Alexander Richards. Dr. Richards will share some tips and tricks he learned from transitioning from teaching about AI and autonomous vehicles at the University level to utilizing AI in daily tasks while teaching, and incorporating AI into his toolbox when authoring content for Electude. This will be an interactive session, and group discussions/ideas and brainstorming is encouraged.

Why There is Such A Misunderstanding About Servicing Brakes on Today's Vehicles (S3-5) by Steve Smith

We will go deep into the changes and how they have changed the way brake are serviced today. The products, the proper service, the OEM requirements, etc. Why there is such a disconnect on the way brakes are being done today that results in the problem not being fixed properly.

Servicing the next generation of EV brakes and what to be aware of and be looking for.