As the automotive industry shifts toward electric vehicles, Mid-State Technical College is making sure students stay ahead with hands-on experience working on a Tesla.
In the College’s advanced auto lab, instructors Curt Andres and Matt Manicki are leading the way. Using Mid-State’s Tesla as a teaching tool, they give students a unique opportunity to explore electric vehicle technology up close, an experience many technicians do not get until later in their careers.
“Electric vehicles aren’t the future. They’re the present,” said Andres. “Our goal is to make sure students graduate confident working on both traditional and electric systems.”
Students begin by learning the basics of EV safety, including how to power down the vehicle and work around high-voltage systems. They then move into diagnosing components, understanding battery systems, and learning the design that sets electric vehicles apart from gas-powered engines.
A key part of the experience is learning how to charge and maintain an EV. Students work directly with the College’s Tesla to understand charging levels, equipment, and best practices. This knowledge is becoming essential as charging infrastructure continues to grow.
Manicki emphasizes that the learning goes beyond technical skills. “It’s about building adaptability,” he said. “Technology is changing fast, and our students need to be ready to learn, troubleshoot, and grow with it.”
By bringing cutting-edge vehicles like the Tesla into the classroom, Mid-State connects learning to real careers. Students leave the program with a strong foundation in automotive repair and the advanced skills needed to succeed in an increasingly electric industry.
Through instructor expertise, industry-aligned training, and access to emerging technology, Mid-State continues to drive innovation and prepare graduates for the future of transportation.
To learn more about Mid-State’s Automotive Technician program, visit mstc.edu/programs/automotive-technician.
