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Professional Development Workshops
The alternative energy vehicle industry is growing and changing rapidly. It is vital that practicing automotive technicians stay updated with technology developments through training opportunities such as the Alternative Energy Automotive Technician Certificate. It is also important that professionals in other industries, such as education and public safety/first response, be informed about developments in alternative vehicle technology. Two key deliverables of the project focus on providing professional development opportunities centered on alternative energy to teachers and first responders.
First Responder Workshop
In partnership with the Columbus State Fire Science Department, a summer workshop is being developed for first responders to further their understanding of alternative energy vehicles and build their knowledge on safety concerns and solutions when issues arise. The workshop will include classroom instruction on the key safety issues (electrocution, explosion potential, and fire suppression). This will include handouts (such as a quick reference guide) and presentations highlighting the safety of alternative fuel concepts. Materials and online instruction activities from both the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the National Alternative Fuel Consortium (NAFTC) will be incorporated. The session will feature classroom learning as well as hands-on experience with alternative fuel vehicles. Demonstrations will show appropriate ways to handle high voltage, volatile gasses, fires, and other issues that first responders may encounter with these types of vehicles.
Automotive Instructor Workshop
Regional high schools comprise an invaluable link in the Alternative Energy Automotive Technology pathway. The project will develop and implement a comprehensive high school faculty professional development model that can be replicated in other schools in the region and beyond. The project team and representatives from the high school programs will host an annual Alternative Energy Educator Workshop for participating high school teachers. College faculty will serve as the trainers and subject matter experts. Participants will complete a survey of Alternative Energy Automotive education, review of the Columbus State curriculum, recruiting tactics, and learn best practices. The event will include industry presentations from employers on the opportunities in the arena. Classroom and breakout sessions will be conducted in a train-the-trainer format with the goal of faculty enhancing their existing high school curriculum with elements of Alternative Energy Automotive Technology and encourage students to explore it as a higher education option.
This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation under Grant No. 1600689.