Five Baldwin Preparatory Academy juniors have achieved an automotive industry milestone while still in high school, completing the requirements for ASE Student Master certification across eight major areas of automotive service.

The accomplishment reflects the school's hands-on approach to career and technical education, giving students opportunities to develop practical skills, work with professional equipment and earn industry-recognized credentials before graduation.

Through Baldwin Prep's automotive pathway, students train on actual vehicles using industry tools and equipment. They learn to diagnose mechanical problems, perform repairs and apply classroom lessons in real-world situations.

The five juniors recently demonstrated their knowledge and technical abilities by meeting the requirements for the ASE Student Master credential. The achievement is particularly noteworthy because earning the certification while still in high school is uncommon. ASE Education Foundation Regional Manager Mike Batchelor said he had not previously seen students accomplish the feat in the Southeast.

"Students aren’t just preparing for a test, they’re preparing to step into a workplace," Baldwin Prep Automotive Instructor Robert Schuler said in the release. "The hands-on experience teaches students how to work safely, solve problems, communicate effectively and take responsibility for their work while meeting professional expectations."

Schuler brings 30 years of automotive industry experience to the classroom, along with certifications from multiple vehicle manufacturers. His background exposes students to different vehicle systems and manufacturers while helping them understand professional standards and the skills employers expect.

He also understands the value of career and technical education from his own experience. Schuler participated in an automotive program at Daphne High School through North Baldwin Center for Technology before pursuing his career in the industry.

Industry partnerships also play an important role in connecting students with the demands of the workforce.

"Through industry partnerships and hands-on training, Baldwin Prep is helping students connect what they learn in the classroom to what they will actually encounter in their careers," Schuler said. "It gives students a clearer understanding of what it takes to succeed in the automotive field after graduation."

Five Baldwin Prep students are also completing assessments through the ASE Entry-Level Automobile program, which evaluates knowledge across eight core areas: engine repair, transmissions and drivetrain, suspension and steering, brakes, electrical systems, heating and air conditioning and engine performance.

While the assessments establish a broad foundation of automotive knowledge, the Student Master credential provides an additional industry-recognized accomplishment that students can carry into employment, further technical training or college.

The automotive pathway is part of Baldwin Prep's broader mission to prepare students for college, careers and the opportunities they choose to pursue. Participants gain experience with professional equipment, learn from industry professionals, develop an understanding of workplace expectations and have opportunities to earn credentials that can help them after graduation.

"It is with our Baldwin Prep industry partners at the table, helping us skill students per industry needs, that is helping to make the school a success," said Adam Sealy, principal of Baldwin Preparatory Academy. "Students aren’t waiting until after high school to begin developing career-ready skills."