DRIVING SUCCESS | UWA

Automotive engineering technology degree at UWA offers hands-on path to success

Story by: Lisa Sollie | Photos: Cody Ingram

Cooper Dansby spent his days on his family’s farm in Hope Hull, Alabama, surrounded by the hum of engines and the scent of motor oil and diesel fuel. He learned mechanics out of necessity, working alongside his father and brother to fix whatever broke. The family preferred making their repairs over sending equipment to the shop.

Now, in his second semester in the University of West Alabama’s Automotive Engineering Technology program, Dansby sees his time at UWA as the first step toward realizing his dream of opening a mechanic shop. With hands-on experience and guidance from ASE Certified Master Technician Curtis Jones, he’s gaining the skills to master the craft he’s been honing since childhood.

According to Jones, “Cooper is the type of student who, when you demonstrate something, says, ‘Show me how to do that,’ then does it himself.” Last semester, during an engine teardown, Jones noted Cooper and his teammate were the first to reassemble it. “I told the students to do it their way, and Cooper tore it down piece by piece, labeled each part, and reassembled it. He only asked me once where a part went. Coming straight out of high school with that kind of knowledge impressed me.”

Like most students in the program, Dansby values hands-on learning. He appreciates how Jones explains concepts in great detail, offering extra help when needed. “Mr. Jones will come over and help until you get it right,” he explained.

Before helping to develop UWA’s automotive program in 2014, Jones spent 22 years at the Bell-Brown Career Technical Center in Sumter County, Alabama. Growing up as the only boy among five sisters, he learned the trade from his father, a mechanic with 31 years of experience at a local shop down the road from their family home. Jones worked part-time at the shop, gaining hands-on experience, before attending Shelton State Community College, where instructor Aaron Bell encouraged him to teach.

Jones enjoys teaching students who not only want to learn about automotive technology—but also those like Cooper, who already have some background in the trade. “It’s rewarding to build on that foundation,” he says. He also ensures his students are job-ready and adaptable, emphasizing the importance of ASE certification to help them stand out in the industry.

One aspect of the program Dansby values is Jones’ commitment to real-world experience. “I have a truck at home with a broken air conditioner. Mr. Jones said I could bring it in, and our class could work on it together,” Dansby said. This semester’s focus includes heating and air-conditioning, brakes and suspension, and electronic components.  

Each year, Jones also leads an annual group project, and this time, his students are restoring the car of UWA’s President Emeritus, Dr. Ken Tucker. Currently in the shop for a fresh coat of paint, the team will add the finishing touches this semester before delivering the vehicle. “It’s a great experience for the group,” Jones explained. “Unlike the usual training vehicles, students can track the progress and see the finished product.”

When Dansby finishes the program, he plans to stay at UWA, earn a business degree, and eventually open his own shop. Jones understands Dansby’s determination and has similar goals for the program, including seeking a partnership with an advanced manufacturer. “A partnership would keep us on the cutting edge,” he said. “I tell the students, whatever you learn today will be different next year. Continuous training is key.”

Cooper Dansby and Curtis Jones understand that success in the ever-evolving automotive field doesn’t come from knowing it all—it comes from a willingness to keep learning. As Dansby pursues his goals at UWA, he knows the road to success may take time, but the journey will be worth it.