MECP & DMTC - A Great Partnership From the Beginning!

When the Daniel Morgan Technology Center decided five years ago to add an electronics course to their already long list of offerings, the school's long-time Automotive Technology Instructor (and former Navy Electronics Technician) Rick Griffin knew that you couldn't just teach modern teenagers "old school" component-level electronics; you had to have a "hook" to keep them interested. The question then became - what fascinates most 21st century teenagers? The answer was obvious - cars with loud stereos! Thus was born the idea to mix electronics training with car stereo applications.

Hired to implement this fascinating idea was Chris Lipp, a former Air Force Electronics Technician and Technical Instructor, who had always wanted to try his hand at teaching high school. From the start, he knew that the program would have to have the support of the industry if it was to succeed. Molding his program around the South Carolina state electronics curriculum, Lipp began to enlist the help of manufacturers to donate the expensive equipment required to expose his students to a "cool" application for all the theory they were learning.

In addition to the basic curriculum, the state also encourages technical programs to offer certification opportunities to students prior to graduation. In this case, the choice was obvious - the Mobile Electronics Certified Professional program sponsored by the Consumer Electronics Association. With the availability of the Basic level test offered by the program and their willingness to allow the school to become a testing site, the partnership between DMTC and MECP has been solid since day one.

The Mobile Electronics program at DMTC is broken into four semesters over two years. The first year is designed as an introductory course into the exciting world of electronics and technology in general. After an introduction into safety practices, students begin with basic DC and AC circuits, while learning numerous hands-on skills such as soldering and test equipment usage. They also take a look at basic installation techniques for various types of car audio.

During the second year, students delve deeper into basic electronics and car audio systems. After a review of concepts already covered, students learn about semiconductor devices and integrated circuits. They also look closer at car audio components, including amplifiers and signal processing. In addition, more advanced car stereo installation techniques are discussed. Proper test equipment usage is emphasized throughout the entire program.

Although not a requirement of the course, students who complete the two-year program are eligible to test for their Basic certification in the MECP program. So far, 12 students have achieved this nationally recognized certification and this year 10 more candidates will be attempting to earn their certification. DMTC's partnership with MECP has been a great learning tool and confidence builder for students and looks to continue thriving for years to come!

Stay tuned to www.MECP.com for certification opportunities and new technologies that affect the industry.  If you have any questions about MECP study guides, exams, or how to get certified, send us an e-mail at MECP@MECP.com and follow us on Twitter @4MECP.