At FHS, there are many different ways to express creativity. There are traditional forms of art such as dance and drama, among other fun activities. However, one distinctive category stands out from the others, requiring lots of knowledge on the things we use everyday—auto tech.
Auto tech, also known as auto body, is a specialized class focused on the learning and understanding of automotive mechanics. This can consist of learning how to change a tire or the engine oil, along with other important skills.
FHS is the only school in the FUHSD to have an Auto Tech class, offering two variants of the class. Auto One is for those who do not have prior automotive knowledge or want a basic understanding of the automobile. Auto Two is more project-based and is aimed towards those who have some degree of past experience.
This FHS class is located behind the 150s wing. Inside, there are many aspects that one would expect in a car mechanic’s workspace. There are post lifts, toolboxes and drawers, along with other equipment that would help diagnose any automotive problems.
“Auto One is an introductory course that doesn’t require any prerequisite to take it, you can know absolutely nothing, that’s okay,” Auto Tech class teacher Thane Fegruson said. “We cover minor electrical systems, wheels and tires, brakes, engines and cooling systems, and some shop operation stuff. And then an Auto Two, a lot more project-based. And we’re just sort of going all over the stuff that you learned in [Auto] One.”
Auto Tech is reserved for FHS juniors and seniors, as students must show maturity to be in the class, since preformings in the workspace could be dangerous. The students perform activities such as learning more about automobiles and how to repair and modify them.
“Just helping out, just working on cars, learning new parts,” Auto Two student JJ Alavrado said. ”It’s always nice to learn new parts and do different things every day. “
Students who meet all criteria to take the class can experience something unique and fun. The automobile can certainly be something fascinating when explored.
