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At Mount Tahoma High School, when the bell rings and students head to their Automotive Service class, they enter a classroom like none other.  

The auto shop is a large, fully equipped space where students practice mechanical and repair skills. Several donated vehicles sit in bays or raised on lifts, ready for students learning to do maintenance.   

Under the guidance of longtime teacher Issac Juma, students change brakes, align tires and work online toward certification as automotive technicians.  

Juma’s class combines hands-on work with technical training for an evolving field, setting up students to achieve their goals. Some plan to enter trade school or pursue careers in the industry. Others simply value the independence of knowing how to maintain their own vehicles. 

Students learning real-world skills 
For sophomore Alexander G., who dreams of becoming an automotive engineer, the class has opened his eyes to the complexity of the craft.  

Diagnosing and implementing repairs are important skills he has developed.  

“People think cars are simple,” he said. “But you need strength, patience, awareness and timing. You have to be calm and precise. It’s more than just using tools. It’s solving a puzzle.” 

Senior My-Nhi (Joy) P. joined the class for the love of being around cars and the car community. Joy’s dad and uncle owned a car shop when she was growing up.  

“I remember I was the kid sitting in the customer’s car as it got lifted, watching them work underneath,” she said. “I loved it and always wanted to learn more.”   

Now she changes tires, replaces spark plugs and drains transmission fluid. She appreciates that Juma teaches real-world skills that make her feel confident and capable.  

She also applies her knowledge outside the classroom as she develops her passion for automotive photography. 

Carson R. has excelled in the program as four-year automotive student and teacher’s assistant.  

“It’s great having that head start,” said Carson of the foundational learning the classes have provided. “I’ll always be able to work on my own car and know what’s going on when I take it to a shop.”  

He plans to further develop those skills as he attends Clover Park Technical College and focuses on the electrical field next year. He credits his experience in the automotive program and Juma’s guidance with helping him find his college and career path.   

Certification central to automotive curriculum  
Juma and the Tacoma Public Schools Career & Technical Education (CTE) program take pride in the fact that students earn certifications that can launch them with a head start into a career.   

Curriculum includes course modules from the Ford Automotive Career Exploration (ACE) program, covering topics like electrical systems, brakes, steering, suspension and engine repair.   

Students who continue their training with Ford after high school can carry over their credits and build on their progress toward dealership accreditation, with expenses covered by Ford.  

By their senior year, students have also had the opportunity to receive their Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) entry-level certification and uniform patch. If students progress further than entry-level, they can also earn a professional technician certification with ASE.     

“The industry is changing. The average car now has more than 28 computers,” said Juma. “These skills are crucial for our world’s infrastructure, and I have seen students have the opportunity for impressive careers.”  

He noted that he’s watched alumni go on to college, work in dealerships and start their own businesses.   

Students spoke of how lucky they are to have a teacher like Juma, who sees himself like the veteran coach in the “Cars” movie franchise – once in the game and now helping young students find their own path toward success.