Hydrogen Automotive Technology Project: Training Technicians to Meet Emerging Alternative Fuel Industry Demands

NSF Award Search · 04002526DB NSF STEM Education · $475,000 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

This project from Long Beach City College (LBCC) will increase the number of automotive technicians that possess the skills to work on hydrogen fueled vehicles, with a particular focus on building a sustainable program that will provide opportunities for all participants. The project will collaborate with employers and industry members to create courses and a certificate that will allow new students to obtain a broader knowledge of alternative fuel vehicles while simultaneously encouraging existing technicians to upskill and increase their employability. In the revised courses students will participate in work-based learning activities that will connect them with local employers, expose them to the industry, and prepare them for the automotive workforce. The creation of these courses will fill a critical gap in automotive training for California, which is a national leader in the implementation of hydrogen fuels and the first state to receive Federal funds for a hydrogen energy hub to augment the country's existing energy portfolio. Despite being at the forefront of implementing hydrogen fuels, there is currently no dedicated certificate or degree for hydrogen automotive technology in the state. Over the three years of the project an initial cohort of 25 students will begin classes, with the number of class offerings and participants expanded in subsequent years. The overall goals of the project are to 1) address the lack of hydrogen automotive certificate in the region;

Key facts

NSF award ID
2500058
Awardee
Long Beach City College (CA)
SAM.gov UEI
NYQ2WBWTBB36
PI
James H Hulbert
Primary program
04002526DB NSF STEM Education
All programs
ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION, UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION, SCIENCE, MATH, ENG & TECH EDUCATION
Estimated total
$475,000
Funds obligated
$475,000
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
09/01/2025 → 08/31/2028