Not just cars. Not just college.
Explore hands-on pathways built for modern automotive work.
See all pathway options
Why Automotive?
It’s Technical
Diagnostics, electronics, EV systems, and problem-solving drive the work.
It’s In-Demand
Hawaii needs skilled workers now — and the gap is growing.
It’s Not One Job
From technicians and service advisors, to parts specialists and fleet managers, and more.
It’s an Education
Hands-on learning paired with college credit and industry experience.
Learn by doing.
Decide later.
You don’t need to know your end goal yet. AutoSTART helps you test-drive the industry first.
Start Where You Are
You don’t have to decide all at once. Our programs let students explore first — then build.
Summer CTE
Academy
Try it out
The Summer CTE Academy is a short, hands-on introduction where students explore multiple career areas, including automotive, over seven days.
Learn More
Summer Auto
Academy
Build skills + earn credit
The Summer Auto Academy is a six-week summer program at Honolulu Community College that combines hands-on learning, early college credit, and employer exposure.
Learn More
AutoSTART
Explore. Build. Prepare.
AutoSTART is a one-year, hands-on program for high school juniors that blends automotive instruction, early college math, and real-world career exposure. This is where most people should start.
NOW RECRUITING
Apply
YATA
Earn + accelerate
The Hawaii Youth Auto Technician Apprenticeship (YATA) is a one-year, hands-on program for high school juniors that blends automotive instruction, early college math, and real-world career exposure.
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Accelerate with YATA
YATA is for students who are ready to commit — and want a head start.
Coming soon…
Earn paychecks
Get college credit
Gain on-the-job experience
Complete an Automotive Technology degree faster than the traditional route
AutoSTART helps students prepare for YATA — but it’s not required.
There’s More than One Way In
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Automotive Technician & Diagnostics
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Collision, Body & Refinishing
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Fleet Mechanic
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Service Advisor or Manager
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Parts & Logistics Specialist
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You don't have to choose now to start…
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Start with AutoSTART if you want hands-on experience during the school year. It’s built to help you explore before committing.
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These programs are structured, supervised, and no-cost. Students gain real skills, college exposure, and insight into modern careers.
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These pathways are designed to meet both student interests and industry workforce needs.
So…How Do I Start?
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No. Automotive careers include technical, service, logistics, and management roles.
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Yes. Many students who do well academically are drawn to hands-on, technical learning. These programs are designed to complement — not replace — academic strengths by connecting learning to real-world systems, problem-solving, and career pathways.
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These programs focus on modern automotive systems, professional skills, and real-world application — not just basic shop work. Students learn how today’s industry actually operates, with exposure to technology, diagnostics, and career pathways beyond a single role.
Frequently Asked Questions
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No. Tuition, books, and supplies are provided.
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Students still leave with valuable skills, early college exposure, and a clearer understanding of their interests. The experience helps students make more informed decisions — whether they continue in automotive or apply what they’ve learned to another field.
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No. AutoSTART is a stand-alone program, and students are not required to continue into YATA. Participation in AutoSTART is also not required to apply for YATA, although it is recommended.
Students who complete AutoSTART still leave with valuable skills, real-world experience, and early college exposure — whether or not they continue in automotive.
Curious?
That’s the point.
Whether you’re exploring options or ready to take the next step, we’re here to help you figure out what fits.