What is Automotive Technology
Skilled automotive technicians who train at OCTC are in the drivers seat in today's job market. The automotive industry is changing rapidly. Whether you're interested in sleek sports cars or the latest hybrid technology, we have the training you need. Vehicles have more computerized devices than ever before. Employers need skilled technicians who can inspect, maintain, and repair, cars and trucks. The automotive program is nationally accredited by the National Automotive Technician Education Foundation (NATEF). Jump start your career with exceptional classroom instruction and hands-on experience at OCTC.
What are my career choices?
Demand for technicians will grow as the number of vehicles in operation increases, reflecting continued growth in the driving age population and in the number of multi-car families. This means you will have a variety of employment opportunities. Persons trained in automotive repair can expect to find employment in new car dealerships, government and independent fleets, as well as independent and franchised repair facilities.
Median hourly wage-and-salary earnings of automotive service technicians and mechanics, including commission, were $16.24 in May 2006. The middle 50 percent earned between $11.96 and $21.56 per hour. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $9.17 and the highest 10 percent earned more than $27.22 per hour. Median annual earnings in the industries employing the largest numbers of service technicians were as follows: Local government, excluding schools $19.07; automobile dealers $18.85; automotive repair and maintenance $14.55; gasoline stations $14.51; automotive parts, accessories, and tire stores $14.38.
Many experienced technicians employed by automobile dealers and independent repair shops receive a commission related to the labor cost charged to the customer. Of course, weekly earnings depend on the amount of work completed; however, most employers guarantee certified technicians a minimum weekly salary.
What are my degree, diploma or certificate options?
Automotive Technology - AAS (61-72 credit hours)
- Automotive Parts/Service Writer Track (61-64 credit hours)
- Automotive Technician Track (69-72 credit hours)
- Automotive Parts/Service Writer - Diploma (53-56 credit hours)
- Automotive Technician - Diploma (61-64 credit hours)
- Automatic Transmission/Transaxle Technician - Certificate (5 credit hours)
- Automotive Air Conditioning Mechanic - Certificate (4 credit hours)
- Automotive Electrician - Certificate (10 credit hours)
- Brake Repairer - Certificate (5 credit hours)
- Engine Repairer - Certificate (5 credit hours)
- Front End Mechanic - Certificate (5 credit hours)
- Manual Transmission/Drive Train Technician - Certificate (5 credit hours)
- Tune-up Mechanic - Certificate (25 credit hours)
Admission Requirements
This program has no special admission requirements.
Additional Information
The Automotive Technology Program at OCTC is accredited by the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Education Foundation.
Length of Program
You can earn an Associate in Applied Science degree in two years if you maintain full-time status.
This information should not be considered a substitute for the KCTCS Catalog. You should always choose classes in cooperation with your faculty advisor to ensure that you meet all degree requirements.
