Hayesville High School has a variety of CTE classes, including Automotive. The goal of this class is to have students gain knowledge of automotive theories and acquire the aptitude and skills required to be automotive technicians.  The instructor of this class is Wade Byers, when asking Mr. Byers why he decided to teach this class he responded, “I always loved Hayesville High School as a student. When I was first asked to apply, I wasn’t interested in leaving my place of employment in the industry. I was working with a friend of mine, and was enjoying where I was working. I kept thinking about it. I was asked again to apply, and I was also coaching youth sports at the time, so I decided to try it. I loved working with students and have been here since.” 

Byers mentions why he recommends students take automotive courses: “Whether you enter the field of automotive or not, most likely one of your major expenses in life will be your transportation. Learning the terminology and maintenance is critical to keeping costs down. Also, we prepare students for internships that often assist them in starting their career while in high school. Auto Fundamentals helps develop basic skills in shop safety, shop equipment, and hand tool use, engage in identifying vehicle systems, system components, and various vehicle fluids. Gain the knowledge, skills, and industry credentials for careers in the Automotive Services pathway. “

Byers explains why he was interested in teaching this class. “The automotive industry has been a great career for me. I started working on my father’s race cars and helping him with his heavy equipment when I was 7 years old . This continued through my teenage years. My first car was a ’67 Chevelle with no engine. My dad helped me obtain this car from Edward Ellis. I mowed yards through the summer to come up with the money for the car. I was only 14 years old at the time. We built and installed a 454 into the Chevelle. My dad and uncles were always customizing cars and motorcycles, so this is how my love for automotive and all things mechanical was born. When I entered high school, I was elated to find out we had an automotive program. After high school, I explored other fields, but returned to the automotive industry. Tri-county Community College and Guilford Tech were instrumental in my return to the automotive industry as a career.”