Tools for the Future: Montana Automotive Technologies

We support Montana Automotive Technologies because it equips students with real-world skills, industry certifications, and a sense of purpose—while filling a critical workforce need and creating new opportunities for young people across our community. - High Stakes Foundation

The Montana Automotive Technologies (MAT) program, housed at Sentinel High School, has grown into one of the most respected hands-on career training tracks in the Missoula County Public Schools system. Originally launched as an elective for upper-level high schoolers, the program has steadily expanded with strong backing from the local automotive industry and community partners.

Students start with the basics—small engines, tool use, and safety protocols—and quickly move into advanced systems like brakes, electrical, and engine diagnostics. It’s not just theory; they work on real vehicles in a functioning shop, mirroring what they’ll see in the field. Along the way, students earn industry-recognized certifications, including EPA refrigerant handling and ASE-aligned training, giving them a leg up whether they choose to enter the workforce right after graduation or continue into post-secondary programs.

The impact of the MAT program is felt far beyond the classroom. Graduates regularly land jobs at local dealerships and repair shops, filling a critical need for trained technicians in Montana. The program also provides a direct pipeline for apprenticeships and further technical education. MAT is a powerful model for public education and community support creating workforce readiness in Montana.

What sets MAT apart is its real-world relevance and strong community ties. Instructors stay current with industry trends, integrating new technologies like hybrid and electric vehicle systems into the curriculum. Meanwhile, students gain not only technical knowledge but also confidence, professionalism, and a sense of purpose. It’s a program that doesn’t just teach kids how to fix cars—it gives them the tools to build their futures.

A conversation with: Leah Philbert, MCPS Automotive Instructor at Sentinel High School

HSF: What do you see as the value of the program?

Things I like about the program: Some kids struggle to find something they are interested in at this stage of life. It is good to have these classes that might spark the attention of a kid who hasn't found their thing yet. This is the kind of class I wish I had in high school. I had small engines, which taught me a lot and is probably why I still gravitate towards engines. We didn't have anything in the school for automobiles. I wanted to know more about my cars and how they worked, so curiosity just kept me looking into other options. I will say, the things we teach in this class are important for any vehicle owner or operator to know. Whether a student is looking into an automotive career, wants to know a little bit about their car, or wants to be able to do some repairs on their own to save money, the content is relevant. That is huge for high schoolers!

HSF: What do you wish people knew about automotive and the trades?

I wish people knew that automotive isn't just wrenching on things. Almost anyone can change parts, but it takes some knowledge, skills, and critical thinking to be able to diagnose a vehicle. We get plenty of practice changing parts, but there is a lot of curriculum that the students get through in our classes. For a student to become good at diagnosing vehicles, they need the fundamentals to build off of. They need to understand how a system works, what they should see, and why they aren't seeing what they should be seeing. Reading, math, science... All of that is so important! The automotive program isn't just a place to stick the kids who are struggling through school. It might be the place where a kid finds passion for something, so maybe it's worth a shot with some of them who are having a rough time. It might open their eyes to the importance of all the other subjects they are expected to learn. 

What I would love for people to understand about Automotive, is that it takes some strong work ethic, curiosity, and communication skills.

HSF: How can the community support MAT?

Community support can come in many different forms. The biggest for me is the people who show up for the students. The companies that come to talk to the students and spend a day with us here and there. The people who show up to our car shows to support kids in the trades. I want the students to get comfortable talking to adults as just other regular people from the community. If they can get past the uncomfortable part of meeting new people, they will be able to learn so much from the older generations who hold a lot of automotive knowledge that isn't usually taught anymore. I want the students to know all the opportunities that are out there for them. Our program couldn't run without donations, so that is often a community support request. The funding from the school district is minimal. We aren't allowed to work on vehicles that don't belong to our program, so we rely on vehicle donations. The students need real vehicles to learn from. Six of our vehicles were getting too worn out and had to go this year. This leaves us with ten cars for next year, which just isn't enough. We look for 2013 or newer, so we can keep the kids somewhat up to date on newer technology. Of course, if there were a fun project car for the students, we would happily take that on for our Auto 3 class. 

The High Stakes Foundation has helped us get some of our most useful equipment over the years. We have received an A/C recovery machine, tool boxes, a 2-post vehicle lift, and I am sure more before I came along! Besides new equipment giving us the ability to keep organized, we have been able to add to our classes when we receive something new. We added a lift certification to Auto 1 this year since we now have a lift in both shops. It gave us a reason to incorporate some extra safety training. In our Auto 3 class, the kids get their certification to work on A/C systems and then get to use the A/C recovery machine to get the hands-on part of repairing A/C systems. - Leah Gilbert, Montana Automotive Technologies

Learn More