Tennessee's Small Engine Repair pathway trains students for careers servicing and repairing small engines in lawnmowers, chainsaws, generators, and power equipment. Small engine repair remains steady work across rural and urban Tennessee.
Students develop competencies in small engine operation, maintenance, repair procedures, troubleshooting, and parts identification. Hands-on work includes engine service and repair on real equipment.
Graduates work as small engine repair technicians, equipment service specialists, or service managers. Some establish their own repair businesses. Steady demand and reasonable wages make this pathway accessible.
Small Engine Repair at a Glance
4
Courses
8
Credentials
4
Career Paths
State Standards & Framework
Tennessee's small engine standards emphasize repair procedures, safety, and technical competency. The state integrates manufacturer specifications and best practices.
Students complete engine repair projects and maintenance procedures. Assessment includes small engine knowledge and hands-on repair demonstrations.
Typical Course Sequence
| Course |
|---|
| Introduction to Transportation |
| Small Engine Repair I |
| Small Engine Repair II |
| Engine Systems |
Industry Certifications & Credentials
- ✓NOCTI Automotive Technology
- ✓NOCTI Automotive Collision and Body Repair
- ✓EPA 609 Certification
- ✓OSHA 10-Hour General Industry
- ✓Forklift Operator Certification
- ✓MSSC Certified Logistics Associate (CLA)
- ✓MSSC Certified Logistics Technician (CLT)
- ✓First Aid/CPR/AED
Career Opportunities
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Growth projections from BLS Employment Projections (2023-2033). Cost-of-living adjustment uses BEA Regional Price Parities (2023). Entry-level salaries reflect the 25th percentile; experienced salaries reflect the median.
Engine Repair Technician
Entry LevelSalary range: $38,410 - $57,340
Adjusted for cost of living: $41,515
Service Specialist
Entry LevelSalary range: $46,280 - $58,560
Adjusted for cost of living: $50,022
Shop Manager
ExperiencedSalary range: $65,880 - $161,270
Adjusted for cost of living: $111,165
Equipment Dealer Manager
ExperiencedSalary range: $65,880 - $161,270
Adjusted for cost of living: $111,165
Work-Based Learning Opportunities
Students intern at equipment dealerships, repair shops, and landscape service companies.
Career & Technical Student Organization
Students in this pathway can participate in SkillsUSA, gaining leadership experience and competing in career-related events.
How Sage Helps Tennessee CTE Programs
AI-Powered Curriculum
Generate standards-aligned lesson plans in minutes, not months
Tennessee Standards Built In
Pre-loaded with Tennessee's CTE standards and frameworks
Teacher Customization
Teachers personalize content while maintaining standards alignment
Ongoing Updates
Curriculum stays current as Tennessee standards and industry needs evolve
Related Pathways in Tennessee
Automotive Technology
Tennessee's Automotive Technology pathway provides comprehensive training for careers in automotive service, repair, diagnostics, and related transportation fields. This program prepares students to service increasingly complex modern vehicles equipped with advanced electronics, computerized systems, hybrid/electric powertrains, and driver assistance technologies. With Tennessee's automotive manufacturing presence including Nissan, General Motors, and Volkswagen, plus extensive dealership and service networks, skilled automotive technicians are consistently in demand throughout the state. The pathway follows a progressive sequence building from fundamental automotive systems through advanced diagnostics and specialized repair procedures. Students work with modern diagnostic equipment, manufacturer-specific tools, and actual vehicles in fully equipped automotive laboratories. The curriculum aligns with Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) standards and prepares students for ASE certifications recognized by Tennessee automotive employers. Safety, professionalism, and customer service skills are emphasized throughout the program. Tennessee's Automotive Technology programs emphasize both traditional mechanical systems and emerging automotive technologies including hybrid and electric vehicle systems, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), connected vehicle technologies, and alternative fuels. This comprehensive approach ensures graduates are prepared for careers servicing current vehicles while adapting to the rapidly evolving automotive industry. Strong partnerships with Tennessee dealerships and automotive businesses provide work-based learning and employment opportunities.
TransportationDiesel and Heavy Equipment Maintenance
Tennessee's Diesel and Heavy Equipment Maintenance pathway trains students for careers servicing and repairing diesel engines and heavy equipment. Construction, agriculture, and transportation sectors rely on heavy equipment, creating strong demand for maintenance technicians. Students develop competencies in diesel engine operation and maintenance, hydraulic systems, electrical systems, and diagnostic procedures. Hands-on experience includes engine service, equipment inspection, and troubleshooting. Graduates work as diesel mechanics, equipment technicians, or maintenance supervisors. Strong demand and wages ($40,000-$70,000+) make this pathway attractive.
Transportation, Distribution, & LogisticsEntrepreneurship
Tennessee's Entrepreneurship pathway develops skills for students interested in starting and managing their own businesses. Tennessee's entrepreneurial culture—from Nashville startups to small business growth across rural areas—provides strong support for business founders. Students learn business planning, market research, financial management, marketing strategy, operations management, and legal considerations. Hands-on projects include developing business plans, conducting market analysis, and launching actual micro-businesses. Graduates pursue small business ownership, corporate entrepreneurship roles, or continue business education in university programs. The pathway attracts students across career interests, from trades to professional services.
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