PURPOSE OF THE AUTOMOTIVE SKILLS PROGRAM: To promote self-reliance and skills development for individuals. Skills learned are transferable to many military specialties. It provides a safe work area, with proper equipment, and provides for a clean environment while providing a method for significant cost reduction for personal automotive maintenance.

DESCRIPTION:

• Over 180 shops, with 3000 indoor work bays are provided.

• Individuals perform hands-on repair and maintenance on their own vehicle.

• Assistance by staff is provided for diagnosing problems.

• High tech equipment is operated by staff where required.

• The patron pays a nominal fee or charge for the use of the program.

• Patrons take part in all phases of maintenance on their vehicles.

• An average of 90% of the users are active duty personnel.

FUNDING:

• Is a Category B program - authorized appropriated and non-appropriated funds.

• Appropriated funds make up approximately 65% of the total operational funds.

INDICATORS OF PROGRAM SUCCESS:

• The center is located near the community center, not in the "industrial outskirts".

• The building has one work bay per 350 assigned soldiers (avg. for medium size posts).

• There is a "waiting list" on Saturday mornings to get a work bay.

• Priority use of the center is given to active duty members.

• Offers scheduled classes of instruction in fundamental and advanced technology.

• The Center is equipped with vehicle lifts in more than 50% of the work bays.

• Staff performs technical tasks only and users do all other work.

LEGAL REGULATORY GUIDANCE:

• Many laws/policies affect operations in the shops, i.e. Environmental Protection Agency policies, state and local hazardous materials management and control laws apply locally and vary by location.

• EPA compliance is aggressive.

• General program guidance is found in AR-215.

PROGRAM DIRECTION AND TRENDS:

• New or renovated facilities number is growing to meet demand.

• Technology in automobile engineering is a challenge to keeping knowledgeable staff.

• Technical training by CFSC is offered and funded for annual sessions.

• Appropriated fund levels are declining overall.

• Added programs, used by soldiers, are being implemented:

  • Car wash with vacuums, sudsing brush, odor remover

  • Painting and body repair

  • Towing services