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Program: Automotive Technology
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Instructor: Otis Brock
For more info: otis@marilynspreschool.com
Program Quick Look
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Approx. Starting Salary:
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$20K-$29K
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Average Salary:
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$30K-$65K
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Average Wage at Placement:
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$10-$15/hour
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Placement Rate:
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80%-100%
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Labor Market:
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strong
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Quote:
"Automotive Technology is a trade you can earn a decent living in and you can take it with you anywhere. You can work in a small setting or a large dealership. You can do as little or as much with it as you want."
"The pay is good for a person who applies themselves. Woman can do it just as well as men because today the trade is very technical. It's not about brute force. If you can rationalize and theorize, you can work on cars."
"The industry can't go anywhere but up. Our economy is based on personalized, individualized transportation and cars will break down. No matter how sophisticated they get, there will always be a need for technicians to repair them. A previous generation of mechanics is getting ready to retire. That means in the next ten years, there will be tremendous need for new mechanics. If you can get some basic training for the apprenticeship level, with some skills and knowledge, you can refine your skills on the job."
Course Information:
Course Description:
The Automotive Technology curriculum offers certificate and degree programs. The programs prepare the individual for employment as an apprentice automotive technician or continuation towards a Baccalaureate Degree in other advanced schools of technology in preparation for future management and teaching careers in the automotive industry. Basic instruction covers safety, trade ethics, science, communication skills, and use of hand and power tools, as well as the theory, maintenance, repair and testing of automobiles and their components. The College of Alameda Automotive Program is state winner in the post-secondary program, non-manufacturer-affiliated category of the 2001 Automotive Awards of Excellence Series. This is the second time in six years that the program has won such a prestigious award. In 1986 the American Vocational Association and the Motor Vehicle Manufactures Association recognized the college for having the "Best automotive Technicians Training Program" in the entire state.
Prerequisites:
A basic knowledge of English and math is required to succeed in the automotive technology program. New students should sign up for assessment testing in Room L204 of the library (510-748-2307) during registration or enrollment. Most Automotive Technology students should take Business 208 or Math 225 along with Atech 21 and 22 in their first semester. Students must pass these classes with a grade of 'C' or better before enrolling in any 10 unit 'major' Atech class. In addition to these academic requirements, all students enrolling in the program are required to provide their own set of basic tools as well as obtain a part-time job (at least 10-15 hours per week) in the automotive area. This is an important step in gaining hands-on experience and putting into the skills learned in the classroom into practice.
Hours Offered:
Day and evening classes are offered.
Length of Program:
one year for a certificate, up to 2 years for a degree
Career Information:
Career Path:
Completion of the COA Auto Technology program prepares the student for employment as an apprentice automotive technician. Experience and additional certification opens up limitless opportunities in more specialized areas. Completion of a Baccalaureate Degree prepares the student for positions in management, teaching careers in the automotive industry or self-employment.
Nature of the Work:
Automotive service technicians diagnose, repair and maintain automobiles and light trucks. The qualifications required of automotive service technicians have become increasingly demanding, as automobile technology becomes more sophisticated. Use of computerized shop equipment, traditional hand tools as well as a familiarity with electronic components are all required. Automotive technicians must be able to diagnose and repair the source of problems easily and quickly using strong reasoning skills and a thorough knowledge of automobiles. As automotive technology continues to change, the need for formal training becomes ever more crucial for entering this profession. Most automotive service technicians work a standard 40-hour week. Occasionally evening and weekend hours are required with certain shops.
Work Environment:
Automotive service technicians usually work in indoor shops. Computer adjustments can sometimes fix certain problems, but getting a little dirty or greasy is sometimes required as well as occasional heavy lifting.
Specific Jobs Available to Graduates:
Automotive Service Technician, Automotive Transmission Technician, Tune-up Technician, Automotive Air-conditioning Repairer, Front-end Mechanic, Brake Specialist, Automotive Radiator Mechanic, Shop Manager, Automobile Production line Tester, Adjuster and Repairer, Self-employment
Industries Employing Graduates of this Program:
Retail and Wholesale Automotive Dealers, Independent Automotive Repair Shops, Gasoline Service Stations, Automotive Service at Department Stores, Automotive and Home Supply Stores, Taxicab and Automobile Leasing Companies, Automobile Manufacturers
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