In a forward-thinking move to prepare students for the evolving automotive industry, the United Methodist Church (UMC) has officially launched EV Workshops for Schools across multiple U.S. districts. These workshops, introduced in July 2025, are designed to offer hands-on training in electric vehicle (EV) repair, maintenance, and technology fundamentals for high school students.
This initiative combines UMC’s outreach mission with the growing demand for skilled EV mechanics, a field that is expected to grow by over 40% in the next decade. As electric mobility continues to dominate future transportation, introducing career tech education in schools is critical to building a workforce ready for tomorrow’s auto industry.
Why EV Career Tech Education is Vital for High School Students
The rapid growth of the EV market in the United States has created a skills gap in the auto repair and manufacturing sectors. Most traditional mechanics are trained in combustion engine technology, leaving a shortage of technicians qualified to work on high-voltage electric drivetrains, battery systems, and EV diagnostics.
Through EV Workshops for Schools, UMC is addressing this need by:
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Teaching core EV concepts to students aged 15–18
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Offering career pathways into EV repair and automotive engineering
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Enhancing school curricula with future-ready content
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Supporting underserved communities with vocational training
The workshops are aligned with state and federal career tech education frameworks and are delivered in partnership with local schools, community colleges, and certified EV instructors.
Structure of the UMC EV School Workshop Program
Each workshop runs as a 12-week module, blending classroom instruction with lab-based practical sessions. The curriculum is tailored to align with STEM standards and provides students with an early understanding of EV safety, diagnostics, and parts handling.
| Module Name | Duration | Key Topics Covered |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction to EV Systems | 2 weeks | Battery tech, motors, EV components overview |
| Safety and PPE | 1 week | High-voltage safety, personal protection practices |
| EV Tools and Diagnostics | 3 weeks | Diagnostic software, digital meters, scan tools |
| Battery & Charging Systems | 2 weeks | Charging stations, thermal control, battery care |
| Career Path Exploration | 2 weeks | Internships, job roles, vocational certifications |
| Capstone Mini Project | 2 weeks | Repair simulation or vehicle component assembly |
All students receive a certificate upon completion, which can be used for vocational credit or to apply for internships with EV repair shops and dealerships.
Participating Schools and Regional Rollout
UMC has identified over 100 schools across ten states to pilot the EV Workshops for Schools by the end of 2025. The first phase of the rollout includes school districts in California, Texas, Georgia, Illinois, and Michigan—states that have shown a strong push for green mobility and career tech education integration.
Some key participating areas include:
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Los Angeles Unified School District, CA
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Houston ISD, TX
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Atlanta Public Schools, GA
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Detroit Public Schools, MI
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Chicago Public Schools, IL
Each region will receive startup kits that include simulation boards, EV component models, safety gear, and cloud access to diagnostic software. Workshops are led by certified automotive educators with additional EV certifications.
Future Prospects and Impact on EV Workforce Readiness
The EV Workshops for Schools initiative serves dual purposes—bridging the education-to-employment gap while promoting equitable access to high-demand tech careers. UMC’s model is being praised for focusing on practical skills that align with industry expectations.
Anticipated benefits of the program:
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Early identification of technical talent in high schools
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Increased enrollment in post-secondary automotive programs
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Boost to local economies through job-ready youth
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Diversification of the EV tech workforce across urban and rural communities
The workshops also raise awareness among students and families about sustainable transportation, energy efficiency, and the long-term environmental benefits of EVs.
Conclusion
UMC’s rollout of EV Workshops for Schools is a major leap forward in making career tech education accessible, future-proof, and industry-aligned. By equipping high school students with the skills to work on next-gen vehicles, this initiative not only supports workforce readiness but also reinforces the church’s broader commitment to youth empowerment, community engagement, and environmental stewardship. As more students enroll and graduate from these EV workshops, America will move one step closer to a skilled, green auto future.
FAQs
What are EV Workshops for Schools?
These are UMC-run training programs for high school students focused on electric vehicle repair and maintenance basics.
Who can enroll in these workshops?
Students aged 15 to 18 attending participating high schools, especially those in states supporting career tech education.
Are these workshops part of the school curriculum?
Yes, they are integrated as elective modules or part of STEM/career education tracks in participating schools.
Do students receive any certification?
Yes, students receive a completion certificate and career counseling to explore future EV job opportunities.
Will this program expand to more schools?
Absolutely. UMC aims to expand to 300+ schools nationwide by 2026 based on success metrics from the initial pilot phase.
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