A unique
Program
Jump start your career with a curriculum rooted in learning career, life, and academic skills. Join our family and discover what it means to be #YATC.
What you’ll learn
Practical
Automotive skills
Through YATC’s intensive hands-on curriculum and individual instruction, students gain the skills needed to begin a successful career in the automotive industry or use the knowledge they’ve gained to build a career that interests them most.
Students receive intensive instruction in automotive theory, as well as practical skills. Technical skills are taught in the classroom in both large and small group formats. The focus of YATC’s approach is to meet the individual needs of each student to help them strengthen their toolbox for the future, preparing them for professional success.
Critical
Life skills
Students are given personalized attention as they develop vital interpersonal, professional and life management techniques to last a lifetime.
Life Skills classes are taught twice a week and are designed to help students understand how to handle real-life situations, become familiar with current events and better comprehend issues in society and politics. Class topics include subjects such as job interview skills, resume writing, setting and achieving goals and health and personal wellness. Field trips, guest speakers and team-building activities enrich the student experience.
Foundational
Academic Skills
Professional instructors and caring tutors give students the individualized guidance they need to grow their academic skills to the next level. Test preparation and tailored support are offered to help students achieve their high school diplomas or specialized mechanical certifications.
This individualized element of the YATC curriculum helps students improve academic knowledge based on each student’s needs. Curriculums are designed by YATC’s two academic instructors to specifically target each student’s areas for improvement based on their performance on the Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE).
“A home away from home”
Interested in becoming a part of our family? Listen to some of our student testimonials to discover if joining the YATC is the right choice for you.
Success stories“YATC has given me the skills I will need not only to fix a car, but skills and knowledge I can apply to all aspects of my life.”
Amari, Class of 2018
The YATC Experience
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Each day students spend time in YATC’s state-of-the-art automotive shop, receiving an extensive period of hands-on training that enables them to apply their automotive theory lessons and acquire practical experience in a working atmosphere.
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YATC students receive individual attention to meet their unique needs.
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YATC provides a nutritious and delicious lunch for students each school day. The lunch break also allows students time for team building with their classmates and the YATC staff.
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Students who do not have a high school diploma are able to prepare for the General Educational Development (GED) Tests. Those students who have a high school diploma from a nationally accredited high school will work to improve their general academic knowledge and enhance any areas of need.
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Field trips, guest speakers and other enrichment activities are offered monthly to help students build life skills and explore career options for the future.
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YATC graduates have more opportunities to continue success after graduation. Graduates have the chance to earn scholarships to continue their education or enhance their technical skills in a variety of industries.
Frequently asked questions
Who can attend YATC?
YATC supports a culturally diverse population, welcoming students ages 16-21 of any race, gender identity, nationality, ethnic origin or sexual orientation. Students are referred to the school in a variety of ways, including through the Departments of Juvenile Justice and Children and Families, YATC graduates, local clergy and community recommendations. All students who attend YATC are, and must remain, drug free throughout the program.
How and when can I apply to YATC?
The student application can be submitted online or by contacting YATC. Applications are accepted year-round, with a new class selected each summer to participate in the September – May program.
What does the YATC program include?
The YATC curriculum includes intensive, hands-on automotive training, academic instruction, life management skills and career preparation. Classes are held Monday – Friday from 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. As part of the program, additional educational and enrichment activities are offered which include guest speakers and instructors, team building exercises, field trips, tutoring and mentoring, certification programs, college scholarships and community volunteer projects. Students also receive uniforms, a daily lunch and a professional tool set they can take with them after completing the program. YATC is unique in that its support does not end at graduation, but continues providing resources and opportunities for alumni and their families, including counseling and job placement assistance, to keep them on the right track.
Who administers the YATC program?
YATC students are trained and assisted by experienced, professional instructors, advisors and administrative staff. In addition, a Board of Directors and an Advisory Board composed of community-minded citizens encourage and mentor students and graduates on their road to a successful future.
How much does the YATC program cost?
Thanks to YATC’s generous donors and volunteers, the program’s tuition, activities and materials are free for students.
How long is the YATC program?
The YATC program is approx. nine (9) months. The program starts in September and ends in May.
How are students selected?
How do students get hands-on-training?
Students receive hands-on-training in our state-of-the-art automotive shop. Students can work on their own vehicles or vehicles that have been donated to YATC. YATC does not allow students to work on vehicles from outside individuals, friends or family.
A typical day at YATC
8:30 – 10:00 a.m.
Group automotive theory or group Life Skills class
10-10:15 a.m.
Break
10:15 – 11:30 a.m.
Small group academic class
11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Lunch provided by YATC
12:30 – 1:10 p.m.
Small group automotive theory class
1:10 – 1:20 p.m.
Break
1:20 – 2:30 p.m.
Small group theory, shop or academic class
2:30 p.m.
Dismissal
YATC Location
Our donors
make it possible.
All contributions large and small make a huge impact on our program.