Automotive Technology

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Prepare for a career in the trades

Overview

Modern automobiles are complex machines requiring service technicians who are highly skilled and knowledgeable about mechanical, electrical, and electronic systems. The automotive technology program provides a strong combination of classroom theory and hands-on practice, with courses based on competencies established by the ASE Education Foundation. You can earn a certificate in maintenance and light repair and an associate degree in automotive technology in this pathway.

View the program planners

Career Paths

Automotive technology provides a variety of family-wage career opportunities where you solve problems using your hands-on technical skills.

Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) master technician
Auto technician
Automotive drivability technician

Service Manager
Electrical service technician
Service writer

Shop owner
Parts manager
Automotive instructor
Transmission rebuilder

Skills & Abilities

Essentials of mechanics
Automotive electrical systems
Vehicle climate control
Automotive chassis and engines
Fuels and emissions
Computer engine controls
Automotive drivetrains
Foundational skills for the trades
Industrial safety
Industrial communications
Industrial math
Human relations
First Aid/CPR

Certificate and degree options

Students who attend full-time can earn an automotive maintenance and light repair certificate in three quarters (one academic year) and an associate degree in automotive technology in three additional quarters (two academic years total).

Contact Automotive Technology

Corry Kile

(360) 442-2728
ckile@lowercolumbia.edu

Gary Roeske

(360) 442-2748
groeske @lowercolumbia.edu