Dawson Snipes: Finding inspiration in education

Dawson Snipes, automotive instructor at Doherty High School in Colorado Springs, Colorado, was stacking ASE certifications and racking up experience across a number of shops until a text message randomly popped up on his phone: “Hey, want to try teaching high school kids?” He’s now nine months into the role after being brought in about a month after the school year started. According to him, it’s been a good change of pace from working in a bay, and it gives him a chance to prepare his students for today’s industry. That being said, teaching is not without its unique challenges.

Q: What has teaching been like for you so far?

Snipes: So far, it’s been hectic. The disconnect between automotive and the CTE (Career and Technical Education) department is huge. Coming from the industry, they assumed everything was laid out and ready for me to teach. But there weren’t many resources provided, and that was a big challenge.

Q: How has your relationship with ASE changed, going from being certified yourself to now teaching students to become certified and career-ready technicians?

Snipes: At the beginning of my career, there was a lot of push to get my certifications just for the shop’s benefit. If I spent my own money to educate myself, I wanted something in return. When I brought that up, my manager said, “OK $1.50 more per hour for every cert you get.” That motivated me to pursue certifications. He reimbursed me for all the fees for the tests I passed.

My perspective has changed. At first, I wanted the certifications to get a job. Then I realized I didn’t need them for the job I had. Now, I want them for myself, period.

When I teach students, I heard something today that really stuck with me: “Reward them.” Have a ceremony. Celebrate when they earn an ASE certification, because it’s hard. It’s difficult to pass your engine certification on the first try, or electrical, or engine performance. Especially when you’ve only had six to nine months of exposure.

They’re just getting familiar with the terminology—A&B testing, diagnostics, and all that. So, I think celebrating their wins is going to be huge this year.

Q: What else have you taken away from the conference?

Snipes: Everyone is going through the same struggles. We’re all fighting the cell phone battle, some promoting them, some trying to limit them. You have to be a little bit on both sides now. There’s no way to be completely against anything. You have to stay open-minded. That’s huge for the kids. We have more opportunity than ever to cater to each individual need.

Plus, the variety of people here, the variety of backgrounds—it’s inspiring. And it’s encouraging to know that you don’t necessarily have to get your hands dirty anymore. You really don’t. They’re able to go through their careers better and faster than what I had to do.