Education
Students in Edison High School’s Automotive Trades Foundation program recently participated in a hands-on seminar focused on electric and hybrid vehicle technology, safety procedures, and system maintenance, led by representatives from DARCARS, Lexus, and Toyota.
According to MCPS Career and Community Outreach Specialist Kelly Johnson, “On Friday, April 25, students in the Automotive Trades Foundation (ATF) program at Edison High participated in an advanced technology seminar and high-voltage electric vehicle (EV)/ hybrid system exploration led by representatives from DARCARS, Lexus, and Toyota. The event focused on the power and potential dangers of high-voltage EV/ hybrid systems and the required safety measures and gear needed to safely POWER-Down and work on the vehicles.
Throughout the course of the day, Lexus Regional, Toyota, and DARCARS representatives brought six EV/hybrid vehicles into the school. Through direct instruction, small-group interactions, and personalized guided instruction, DARCARS and Eastern helped to create foundational knowledge and experiences to help students and instructors feel confident as high voltage vehicles become more common in their workspace.
“We are thankful to our business partners at DARCARS, Lexus, and Toyota for dedicating their time and resources to deliver such a comprehensive and engaging experience to our students.” said Steve Boden, Supervisor for the MCPS Foundations Office. “As technology evolves and high-voltage vehicles become more prevalent, it is imperative that we equip our students with the essential skills and knowledge necessary to allow them to work safely and effectively on enhanced automotive systems and future technologies.”
