How Instructors at Our Auto Mechanic School Leverage Their Rich Industry Knowledge
At ATC Cambridge, our auto mechanic school‘s foundation lies in our instructors’ expertise and passion. These industry professionals bring years of hands-on experience into the classroom, ensuring students graduate with practical knowledge, confidence, and the ability to excel in real-world scenarios.
Recently, we had the privilege of speaking with Vince Legault, an experienced instructor at ATC. He shared how his decades-long career in the automotive industry shaped his teaching.
From the Garage to the Classroom: Vince’s Journey
“I’ve been in this trade since I was 16 or 17 years old,” Vince shared. He started by working on cars in his backyard with his father and later moved on to a 32-year career at an independent shop. Over the years, Vince honed his skills and gained invaluable experience. However, as he progressed, he felt a growing desire to share his knowledge with others.
When Vince reflected on his decision to move on, he shared that teaching became his next step and expressed his appreciation for the program. He mentioned that he wished a stepping stone like this had been available when he started 30 years ago.
Teaching With Expertise and Heart
Vince’s teaching approach focuses on sharing lessons from his years on the shop floor. “It makes me feel good to share my knowledge,” he said, explaining how he uses personal experiences, like breaking a bolt during his first attempt, to teach practical skills. He highlighted the importance of understanding critical concepts, saying, “You’ve gotta understand the breaking point,” to help students avoid backtracking and losing time.
This experience and hands-on guidance help students at our auto mechanic school grasp the intricacies of auto repair while learning from real-life scenarios. Vince emphasized how he leverages students’ strengths to foster teamwork, explaining that he encourages stronger students to assist struggling students. “They become a family,” he said, likening it to the dynamic in a garage where everyone helps each other grow.
Adapting to Industry Evolution
Over the years, the automotive industry has seen significant changes, from purely mechanical systems to vehicles filled with advanced electrical and computer components. Vince has witnessed this evolution firsthand.
When asked how the industry has evolved, he explained that cars used to be purely mechanical under the hood but now feature advanced systems such as adaptive cruise control and tire pressure monitoring. “The technology is constantly changing,” he noted, emphasizing the need to adapt.
“You need to be more computer literate,” he added, highlighting the importance of understanding how to handle complex circuits and noting that one small wire could control multiple components.
Vince ensures his students are equipped to tackle these modern challenges. “The technology is constantly changing,” he emphasized, explaining how students must stay current to prepare for the real world.
Our Automotive School Prepares Students for the Real World
Vince believes that the skills and values instilled at ATC extend beyond technical knowledge. He explained that students leave with great know-how, are prepared to handle challenges and work efficiently and collaboratively.
This emphasis on teamwork, critical thinking, and adaptability makes ATC graduates stand out in the job market. Unsurprisingly, Vince’s students think highly of him and his ability to connect with their learning needs.
Our automotive school combines the knowledge of seasoned instructors with a robust curriculum to help students thrive in their careers. Backed by our expert Career Services team, our graduates emerge equipped with the requisite knowledge, skills, and confidence to succeed in the automotive industry.
Get a closer look at Vince’s passion for teaching and his insights on the evolving automotive industry in this exclusive video:
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