Why get an associate degree in automotive technology? For one thing, the demand for mechanics is always high. Car dealerships, government fleets, independent automotive shops, and other employers are always looking for well-trained automotive technicians. An automotive technology degree program is the best way to get training that will prepare you for future technology, such as electric vehicles, and help you to grow with the industry.
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Benefits of an Automotive Technology Degree Program
Whether you choose an associate degree or a certificate program, you will get the training you need to get a job and start earning right out of college.
Work With Your Hands…and With Computers
Modern vehicle maintenance and repair require auto technicians to have both mechanical skills and computer know-how. Techs need to understand how to repair engines and also have to understand computer diagnostics equipment and tools.
If you love motorcycles and want to learn how to work on them, ACC’s Powersports Service Technology Program will teach you how to diagnose, repair, and maintain two- and four-stroke engines from all manufacturers.
Interested in electric vehicles? The Battery Electric Vehicle Specialization Program gives you the training you need to work on leading-edge technology for the next generation of electric vehicles.
Here are some of the skills students learn in Austin Community College’s Automotive Technology and Powersports Service Technology programs:
- Engine repair
- Electrical and electronics systems
- Brake systems
- Transmission systems
- Suspension and steering
- Motorcycle and Powersports equipment repair and maintenance
- Engine performance analysis
- Electric vehicle repair and maintenance
Degrees also include academic courses, including:
- Technical and business writing
- Math
- Language and creative arts
This is because as an automotive technician, you will do more than repair cars. A technician is responsible for communicating with customers about what’s wrong with the vehicle, what’s needed to fix it, how long it will take, and how much it will cost. An automotive technology degree doesn’t stop at repair skills. It provides students with everything they need to be successful, and that means people skills.
Problem Solving and Troubleshooting
If you’re the type of person who likes to get your hands dirty as you solve tough problems, this degree could be for you. At ACC, students get hands-on experience working with vehicles that come in through the automotive repair program. They get to work with experienced instructors who guide them through the troubleshooting process. Students also get internship opportunities with local companies, so they get paid on-the-job training.
ASE Certification Exam Preparation
The automotive technology program prepares students for Automotive Service Excellence certification. Certification recognizes that new automotive technicians have the workforce training and skills necessary to be competent at repair, maintenance, and service. Employers such as dealerships, towns and cities, and government agencies often require their technicians to have ASE certification.
ACC Automotive Technology Degree Programs
At ACC, students can choose among more than a dozen automotive technology programs. Depending on your career goals, you can choose to enroll in an AAS (associate of applied science) degree program, a certificate in a specialization, or earn an occupational skills award. These awards can be “stacked” so that classes count toward a more in-depth degree plan.
The Honda PACT Institute and Toyota T-TEN specialization plans lead to associate degrees and industry certifications from these manufacturers. These award plans make you more valuable to dealerships since you will have the necessary skills and training to work on these vehicles.
ACC Degrees and Certificates
- Automotive Technology (AAS, Advanced Technical Certificate, Occupational Skills Award)
- Automotive Technology Honda PACT Specialization (AAS or Certificate)
- Automotive Technology Toyota T-TEN Specialization (AAS or Certificate)
- Battery Electric Vehicle Specialization (AAS, Certificate, Occupational Skills Award)
- Advanced Automotive Level 1 (Certificate)
- Automotive Technology Honda PACT Specialization Level 1
- Automotive Technology Toyota T-TEN Level 1 (AAS or Certificate)
- Basic Automotive Level 1 (Certificate)
- Motorcycle Repair Advanced Level 1 (Certificate)
Build Your Skills for a Career in Automotive Technology
The automotive industry needs a skilled workforce, especially as cars and other vehicles get more complex to build, operate, and maintain. Automotive technicians need top mechanical and computer skills. ACC’s automotive technology degree programs prepare students for a solid career in the automotive repair industry.
There’s such great demand for techs that everyone who completes the program can get a job. And, with ACC’s Free Tuition Program, you may be able to earn a degree and save money on your training at the same time.
Explore which program is right for you and get started right away.
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