Robert Mauger

As Robert Mauger humbly explains, “I’m just a guy who loves cars, trying to change kids’ lives.” Yet over the past eight years, he has transformed a struggling automotive program into a highly respected pathway for students entering the automotive industry. He has built connections with local businesses to obtain help in finding jobs for his students, while creating life-long relationships with his students and their families.

When Mr. Mauger was growing up, becoming a teacher was not part of his plans. It was only after volunteering at his daughter’s school that he says, “I stumbled upon my true calling.”  Robert’s lifelong passion for hands-on work and mechanical repair, passed down to him by his father, led him to the automotive industry. From there he obtained his CTE Credential in transportation and landed what he calls his” dream job” as an Automotive Technology instructor at a local high school.

On a typical day in Mr. Mauger’s classroom, students are actively engaged in conversations, eagerly sharing their prior knowledge and experiences. As they transition to the shop, students will collaborate on various tasks from routine vehicle maintenance or diagnosing car issues, to performing repairs for community members in need. 

One student, when asked what he liked about Mr. Mauger’s class, explained, “Mr. Mauger allows me to have something in common with my dad. I can talk to him about what I’ve learned while we work on cars.” Another student commented that “this class is important because I can work on cars now and help my family with the money I earn.”  These moments drive Robert Mauger’s passion for teaching and motivate him to continue making a positive impact every day.