Students in Montgomery County Public Schools’ Automotive Trades Foundation (ATF) and Information Technology Foundation programs are preparing for their first public sale of the school year, showcasing used cars and refurbished computers they have reconditioned as part of their hands-on training. The sale will take place on Saturday, December 6, from 9am to 11am at Gaithersburg High School.
The ATF program, which operates as a licensed student-run used car dealership, allows high school students to work directly on vehicle maintenance, repair, sales, and marketing. According to MCPS, the foundation was established in cooperation with local businesses to expand automotive education opportunities and has been serving Montgomery County students since 1978.
Through ATF, students receive detailed classroom instruction combined with extensive shop experience, preparing them for a wide range of roles in the automotive industry. The program introduces students to potential employers and provides training that can lead to positions in technical service, customer service, sales, or management. Final-year ATF students also complete two-day-a-week placements in local dealerships, where they work alongside industry professionals and build employment connections.
In addition to automotive training, students in the Information Technology Foundation refurbish computers that are also offered for sale to the community. Both programs provide students with real-world experience and the opportunity to earn advanced credit toward post-secondary education.
The December 6 event gives the public the chance to support student learning while purchasing affordable vehicles and computers restored by MCPS students. The car inventory will be uploaded here when it becomes available closer to the event.
