Automotive Technician Program
Program Description
The Automotive Technician Associate of Applied Science Degree A.A.S. degree program includes technical and general education components. This degree provides the skills for trade entry plus the possibility to pursue a Bachelor of Arts B.A. degree with cooperating colleges and universities.
Students must be 18 years old for the automotive program due to the internship requirements, so that the automotive shop sites can insure you. Students must also possess a current driver's license.
Industry Description
The ability to make a quick and accurate diagnosis is one of the technician's most valuable skills. It requires good reasoning ability, as well as a thorough knowledge of automobiles. The technician may be required to determine serviceability, find specifications and service procedures in manuals and technical literature, repair or replace parts, give estimates of repair, and communicate with customers and trade personnel. Most technicians perform a variety of repairs; however, some will specialize. Areas of specialization may include chassis service, drive train service, engine overhaul, fuel delivery and electrical system service, and air conditioning service. Other related areas may include merchandising, service/sales, and manufacturing representatives.
Beginners who learn on the job usually start as trainees or mechanics' helpers. Within a few months, they perform many routine service tasks and make simple repairs. It usually takes two to five years of on-the-job training to become a journey-level mechanic. This means that a mechanic is skilled enough to perform difficult repairs. However, graduates of college training programs are often able to advance to the journey level after only a few months on the job.
With an additional year of training, journey-level mechanics can specialize in a difficult area, such as transmission repair. However, they can specialize in areas that do not require all-around knowledge of auto repair in less time.
Experienced mechanics with leadership ability sometimes advance to shop supervisor or service manager. Those who work well with customers may become service estimators. Some open their own repair shops.
Wages/Outlook/Advancement
Wage information is available from the Minnesota Department of Education and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.
ACCUPLACER Test Requirement: ACCUPLACER testing in math, reading and writing. Any needed developmental courses must be completed before receiving a diploma or an A.A.S award.
Start Dates
Fall Semester August
Program Essentials
Length of Program
Automotive Technician A.A.S. 71 credits
Auto Brake and Suspension Certificate 27 credits
Program Contact
John Johnson
Phone: (763) 576-4852
E-mail: jjohnson@anokatech.edu
For information on how to apply or to schedule a campus tour, contact the Admissions Office.
Phone (763) 576-4850
E-mail: info@anokatech.edu
