New England Tech Automotive now offers industry credentials along with an Associate in Science
Degree
By Christopher Bannister, Professor
Since October 2012, all students entering the Automotive or Automotive with High Performance programs at
New England Institute of Technology have had the opportunity to participate in the Ford Maintenance and Light
Repair (MLR) program. As part of their first year at New England Tech, students study a variety of entry-level
subjects designed to prepare them for jobs in the Ford Motor Company family of dealerships. This coursework,
which is the same training that Ford Quick Lane technicians receive, consists of training in the following areas;
Electrical, Climate Controls, Brakes, Suspension and Steering, Tires, Chassis and Maintenance. In order to
gain their credentials, students must complete web-based MLR modules, which are supplemented by
classroom training, hands-on practice and testing. They must also demonstrate - in the lab environment - that
they have mastered the practical application of that training.
It’s no secret that many of us started our careers in the automotive industry on the “lube rack,” doing oil
changes and tire rotations. In fact, I joke with my students that I started a step below that as a “fuel transfer
technician.” In other words, in the time before self-service stations, I pumped gas. When I was old enough to
work in the shop, I was taught how to do oil changes and tire repairs, which lead me to technical school
training and a career I have enjoyed for more than 30 years. The MLR programs gives students this same
training, and much more, to accelerate them on their path to success.
Practical, hands-on training – a hallmark of New England Tech - begins in the very first quarter of the program
with instruction on general shop safety, tools and equipment, lift operation, measurement tools, and an
introduction to scan tools. This section provides students with the foundation to work in an automotive shop
environment, while introducing them to the concepts related to basic engine design and operations, as well as
primary vehicle maintenance techniques.
The second section of training focuses on electricity and electronics. As many of you know, electricity is a
fundamental element of everything “automotive,” and is therefore the prerequisite for the remainder of the
training. Students cannot gain their credentials from Ford without successfully completing the electrical portion
of the curriculum. The electrical modules cover basic electrical systems, testing of the battery, and testing and
repair of the starting and charging systems.
The third section of training covers the design, construction, and operation of various brake systems, as well as
power assist and anti-lock brakes. It includes diagnosis, repair, and replacement of various component parts.
It also includes instruction on the design, construction, and operation of suspension and steering systems,
wheel alignments, wheel balancing, and the diagnosis and repair of various components. During this section
students also utilize additional web-based training from tire manufactures to study tire related coursework.
The last segment of the MLR training focuses on the design characteristics and principles of automotive
heating and cooling with an emphasis on theory, operation, and maintenance. Once this final segment has
been completed the students gain Ford MLR credentials, and are eligible for employment in Ford entry-level
positions. In addition to this invaluable industry certification, they are also well on their way to completing their
Associate in Science degree in Automotive Technology from New England Institute of Technology.
For more information about the MLR program at New England Institute of Technology please call 401-4677744 or click on www.neit.edu.