Meet the Instructor

In the Outdoor Power Equipment program, students learn to repair, rebuild and tune up several basic types of engines during the first year. These engines can be found on equipment such as snow blowers, lawn mowers, rototillers, farm tractors and construction equipment. Students also learn metal skills, including electric arc, MIG and oxyacetylene welding.

Students in this program can look for employment in engine specialty shops, such as working for a motorcycle repair shop, small engine shop, farm equipment shop or truck dealership. Some students may find themselves working for independent repair shops. Engine technicians can advance to supervisory or management positions.

The need for skilled engine technicians continues to grow as the purchase of outdoor power equipment increases in popularity and the need for lawn and garden equipment grows with new home construction and on farms.

Course Content:
· Theory of internal combustion engines
· External components of small engines
· Hand and power tool utilization
· Technical and parts manuals
· Starters
· Carburetor, fuel, ignition and cooling systems
· Power transmissions
· Cutting implements
· Basic welding (gas and arc)
· Electrical systems
· Safety awareness and first aid
· Engine rebuilding and overhaul
· Engine operation and maintenance
· Work orders
· Mathematics and shop inventory
· Basic electronics
· Heavy equipment repair
· Assembly, maintenance and storage of hand shop equipment