Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Richard McCracken

Conroe

Summary

Dynamic Automotive Instructor with a proven track record at every place I worked, specializing in curriculum development and advanced diagnostics. Expert in fostering student engagement and teamwork, I successfully enhanced job placement rates through tailored coaching and real-world applications, ensuring students excel in competitive environments while maintaining a strong focus on safety practices.

Overview

33
33
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Automotive Instructor

Conroe ISD
08.2023 - 05.2025
  • Assisted students in refining their resumes and interview skills for job placements upon graduation from the program.
  • Collaborated with fellow instructors to develop comprehensive lesson plans, resulting in improved course offerings and student outcomes.
  • Monitored student progress throughout each module using formative assessments designed to gauge comprehension levels.
  • Developed strong rapport with students through consistent communication, fostering a positive learning environment.
  • Facilitated student-led projects that encouraged teamwork, problem-solving, and hands-on learning experiences within the automotive field.
  • Reviewed industry updates regularly to maintain expert knowledge of technological advancements within the automotive sector.
  • Implemented safety protocols in the workshop setting, reducing accidents and injuries among students.
  • Created an organized classroom space equipped with relevant tools and resources for effective instruction in automotive mechanics.
  • Tailored instructional methods to accommodate diverse learner needs, promoting inclusive education for all students.
  • Used project-based approach focused on teams building components such as engines and chassis.
  • Ensured students remained up-to-date on industry standards and practices by regularly attending professional development workshops and conferences.
  • Trained and coached students for competitions such as Skills USA and UTI's Top Tech Challenge
  • Enhanced student understanding of automotive systems by incorporating hands-on activities and real-world examples.
  • Utilized various teaching strategies such as lectures, demonstrations, group work, and individual projects to engage students in active learning experiences.
  • Incorporated diagnostic software into lessons, exposing students to modern troubleshooting techniques used in professional settings.
  • Supervised and monitored students' use of tools and equipment.
  • Collaborated with colleagues and improved teaching practices through professional learning communities and student retention meetings.
  • Kept updated with developments in subject area curriculum, technical, and career trends and teaching resources and methods.
  • Advised students on course selection, career decisions and other academic and vocational concerns.
  • Maintained laboratory with equipment, tools and supplies to meet course needs.

Automotive Instructor/Automotive Program Developer

Tarkington ISD
08.2013 - 08.2023
  • Evaluated vendor proposals when outsourcing specific tasks or services during course development, ensuring quality and cost effectiveness.
  • Helped build long-term skills valuable in the Automotive marketplace.
  • Conducted regular reviews of course materials ensuring content remained relevant to current industry trends.
  • Prepared lesson plans and class curricula to meet instructional targets.
  • Evaluated student performance through practical assessments, leading to targeted feedback and increased knowledge retention.
  • Stayed up-to-date with emerging technologies and trends in program development to ensure cutting-edge solutions were provided to students.
  • Trained and coached students for competitions such as Skills USA , UTI's Top Tach Challenge
  • Organized networking events connecting graduates with local employers, improving job placement rates for program participants.
  • Provided technical support using knowledge of complex technology to solve problems and support new projects.
  • Built relationships with local automotive companies, creating opportunities for guest speakers and field trips that enriched the curriculum.
  • Observed and evaluated students' work to determine progress, provide feedback, and make suggestions for improvement.
  • Provided instructional handouts, texts, audiovisual aids and other materials to facilitate learning.
  • Presented lectures and conducted discussions to increase students' knowledge and competence using visual aids such as graphs, charts and slides.
  • Connected instruction to real-world experiences and to students' post-secondary goals.
  • Established goals for courses with organized outlines and detailed lessons.
  • Planned and documented programs of study meeting individual needs and abilities of students.
  • Deployed technology and current research in instruction and monitored students' progress in use of online learning materials and technology.
  • Assisted students in refining their resumes and interview skills for job placements upon graduation from the program.
  • Monitored student progress throughout each module using formative assessments designed to gauge comprehension levels.
  • Developed strong rapport with students through consistent communication, fostering a positive learning environment.
  • Facilitated student-led projects that encouraged teamwork, problem-solving, and hands-on learning experiences within the automotive field.
  • Reviewed industry updates regularly to maintain expert knowledge of technological advancements within the automotive sector.
  • Implemented safety protocols in the workshop setting, reducing accidents and injuries among students.
  • Created an organized classroom space equipped with relevant tools and resources for effective instruction in automotive mechanics.
  • Tailored instructional methods to accommodate diverse learner needs, promoting inclusive education for all students.
  • Used project-based approach focused on teams building components such as engines and chassis.
  • Enhanced student understanding of automotive systems by incorporating hands-on activities and real-world examples.
  • Utilized various teaching strategies such as lectures, demonstrations, group work, and individual projects to engage students in active learning experiences.
  • Incorporated diagnostic software into lessons, exposing students to modern troubleshooting techniques used in professional settings.
  • Supervised and monitored students' use of tools and equipment.
  • Kept updated with developments in subject area curriculum, technical, and career trends and teaching resources and methods.
  • Maintained laboratory with equipment, tools and supplies to meet course needs.

Automotive Business Owner/Technician

Dr.Rick's Auto Clinic
05.1992 - 11.2017
  • Established strong customer relationships through excellent communication and attentive service.
  • Maintained a safe work environment by strictly adhering to established safety protocols and guidelines.
  • Strengthened company reputation by consistently meeting or exceeding customer expectations in terms of quality products/services offered.
  • Trained new technicians on standard operating procedures, ensuring consistency across the team.
  • Consulted with customers to assess needs and propose optimal solutions.
  • Performed troubleshooting and diagnosis on malfunctioning equipment.
  • Managed financial operations to ensure fiscal responsibility, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
  • Completed complex repairs quickly by leveraging strong diagnostic skills and attention to detail.
  • Maintained a safe work environment by enforcing strict safety protocols and regularly updating staff on industry best practices.
  • Demonstrated adaptability when faced with new challenges or technologies, enabling quick mastery of necessary skills.
  • Delivered exceptional results under tight deadlines by prioritizing tasks effectively and delegating responsibilities appropriately throughout the team.
  • Increased customer satisfaction with prompt and knowledgeable support for various technical issues.
  • Optimized system performance thorough testing and analysis.
  • Enhanced company profitability by reducing overhead costs and negotiating favorable contracts with suppliers.
  • Actively participated in continuous learning initiatives to stay updated on industry trends and advancements in technology.
  • Boosted revenue by identifying new business opportunities and diversifying product offerings.
  • Conducted root cause analyses for recurring technical issues, minimizing future disruptions.
  • Implemented efficient systems for inventory management, order processing.
  • Ensured reliable network connectivity, closely monitoring system performance and making adjustments as needed.
  • Reduced response times to technical issues, implementing prioritized troubleshooting protocol.
  • Increased client satisfaction by implementing innovative business strategies and streamlining processes.
  • Increased equipment lifespan, performing preventive maintenance and timely repairs.
  • Conducted market research to inform product development decisions and identify potential growth areas.
  • Ensured compliance with all relevant regulations by staying current on industry requirements and implementing necessary changes in operations.
  • Launched series of successful new products, conducting market research and adjusting offerings based on feedback.
  • Improved customer satisfaction, swiftly addressing and resolving technical inquiries and issues.
  • Streamlined communication, introducing centralized platform for logging and tracking technical issues.
  • Enhanced safety protocols, conducting regular inspections and safety drills for technical team.
  • Implemented cutting-edge technology solutions to enhance operational productivity and customer engagement.
  • Drove revenue growth with innovative sales strategies, understanding customer needs and market trends.
  • Facilitated seamless software upgrades, minimizing disruptions to daily operations.
  • Conducted detailed diagnostics to identify issues, leading to decrease in system downtimes.
  • Tested systems, noting issues and completing preventive maintenance.
  • Achieved significant cost savings by renegotiating service contracts without sacrificing quality or service levels.
  • Diagnosed and repaired problems with electrical and mechanical systems.
  • Maintained strong focus on safety and efficiency to provide comprehensive support to personnel performing skilled repairs.
  • Inspected, evaluated and calibrated electrical and mechanical systems and components.
  • Interacted well with customers to build connections and nurture relationships.
  • Managed purchasing, sales, marketing and customer account operations efficiently.
  • Negotiated price and service with customers and vendors to decrease expenses and increase profit.
  • Followed established procedures for inspection of belts, drives and motors, performing needed maintenance.

Automotive Instructor

Galena Park ISD
08.2015 - 08.2017
  • Mentored new automotive instructors, sharing best practices and ensuring consistency across the program.
  • Planned experiential learning activities like car repair simulations to enhance student engagement and skill development.
  • Met training needs with well-organized, factual programs based on contemporary requirements.
  • Identified program successes and failures based on student assessments and course reviews.
  • Developed software content, study aids and handouts for industry professionals.
  • Collaborated with fellow instructors to develop comprehensive lesson plans, resulting in improved course offerings and student outcomes.
  • Ensured students remained up-to-date on industry standards and practices by regularly attending professional development workshops and conferences.
  • Collaborated with colleagues and improved teaching practices through professional learning communities and student retention meetings.
  • Conducted regular reviews of course materials ensuring content remained relevant to current industry trends.
  • Prepared lesson plans and class curricula to meet instructional targets.
  • Evaluated student performance through practical assessments, leading to targeted feedback and increased knowledge retention.
  • Organized networking events connecting graduates with local employers, improving job placement rates for program participants.
  • Built relationships with local automotive companies, creating opportunities for guest speakers and field trips that enriched the curriculum.
  • Observed and evaluated students' work to determine progress, provide feedback, and make suggestions for improvement.
  • Provided instructional handouts, texts, audiovisual aids and other materials to facilitate learning.
  • Connected instruction to real-world experiences and to students' post-secondary goals.
  • Established goals for courses with organized outlines and detailed lessons.
  • Planned and documented programs of study meeting individual needs and abilities of students.
  • Deployed technology and current research in instruction and monitored students' progress in use of online learning materials and technology.
  • Monitored student progress throughout each module using formative assessments designed to gauge comprehension levels.
  • Reviewed industry updates regularly to maintain expert knowledge of technological advancements within the automotive sector.
  • Implemented safety protocols in the workshop setting, reducing accidents and injuries among students.
  • Tailored instructional methods to accommodate diverse learner needs, promoting inclusive education for all students.
  • Utilized various teaching strategies such as lectures, demonstrations, group work, and individual projects to engage students in active learning experiences.
  • Supervised and monitored students' use of tools and equipment.

Education

Various Automotive Classes

San Jacinto College
Pasadena, TX

Ac /Brakes/Suspension/computerized Electronics

Part Manufactures Training Sessions
Houston, TX

Alignment /On Car Brake Lathe/Road Force Balance

Hunter Equipment Training
Kingwood

Chrysler Computer Electronics

Universal Technical Institute
Houston, TX
01-1986

Automotive,Electrical,Wood Working

Sharon SR. High School
Sharon, PA
06-1974

Skills

  • Expert troubleshooting
  • Suspension systems
  • Safety practices
  • Advanced diagnostics
  • Maintaining compliance
  • Vehicle inspection
  • Classroom management techniques
  • Fuel systems
  • Documentation skills
  • Emissions control
  • Curriculum development
  • Electrical systems
  • Troubleshooting
  • Conflict resolution techniques
  • Diagnostic procedures
  • Project-based learning
  • Assessment and evaluation
  • Competition coaching
  • Teaching classes
  • Brake system mastery
  • Preventative maintenance expertise
  • Automotive software proficiency
  • Designing curriculum
  • Exhaust system expertise
  • Automotive technology expertise
  • Preparing lessons
  • Project-based programs
  • Engine repair proficiency
  • Planning activities
  • Technical training
  • Workforce development
  • Learning management systems
  • Online training
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Problem-solving
  • Attention to detail
  • Problem-solving abilities
  • Reliability
  • Organizational skills
  • Decision-making
  • Student engagement
  • Lesson planning
  • Self motivation
  • Goal setting
  • Educational research
  • Educational leadership
  • Student mentoring
  • Differentiated instruction
  • Student assessment
  • Technology integration
  • Online teaching
  • Training program development
  • Subject matter expertise
  • Equipment demonstration

Certification

  • Licensed -Texas Educator Certificate since 2016 -2028
  • ASE certified since 1990

Timeline

Automotive Instructor

Conroe ISD
08.2023 - 05.2025

Automotive Instructor

Galena Park ISD
08.2015 - 08.2017

Automotive Instructor/Automotive Program Developer

Tarkington ISD
08.2013 - 08.2023

Automotive Business Owner/Technician

Dr.Rick's Auto Clinic
05.1992 - 11.2017

Various Automotive Classes

San Jacinto College

Ac /Brakes/Suspension/computerized Electronics

Part Manufactures Training Sessions

Alignment /On Car Brake Lathe/Road Force Balance

Hunter Equipment Training

Chrysler Computer Electronics

Universal Technical Institute

Automotive,Electrical,Wood Working

Sharon SR. High School

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Richard McCracken