Basic Automotive Technology (Certificate of Proficiency)
(42 credits)
Program Description
When you encounter a problem, do you see it as a challenge? Do you want to work with your hands in an industry that’s essential to everyday life?
When you study Automotive Technology at SPSCC, you’ll receive both formal training and real-world experience diagnosing and repairing automotive problems. Take classes in a modern, industry-standard shop facility that has been certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). We also offer an in-depth curriculum designed to prepare you to reach success in all eight ASE areas.
The Automotive Technology Program curriculum is certified with the National Automotive Technician Education Foundation (NATEF) and is designed to provide entry-level skills in the automotive mechanics field. Students learn to diagnose automotive problems in a practical hands-on shop environment, using state-of-the-art diagnostic and repair equipment. Upon completion of this program students will be qualified for a broad range of employment opportunities.
Career Opportunities
The automotive industry employs more than 17,800 persons in the state of Washington. There is a shortage of qualified journey-level workers. Studies show many employers are reluctant to hire trainees without on-the-job or live shop experience. Job prospects are best in high population centers. Some mechanics specialize in one aspect of repair work while others become technicians or general mechanics. Car dealers, garages, service stations, industrial plants, and public agencies are potential employers.
- Tune-up Technician
- Entry-level Electrical Technician.
Program Information
Length of Program
The beginning certificate can be completed in a minimum of three quarters leading to the advanced certificate for an additional three quarters.
Special Program Note
Students with previous automotive background or completion of high school automotive training can receive advanced placement credit for AUTO 100 Introduction to Automotive Technology and enroll directly into AUTO 141 Chassis Systems / AUTO 142 Electrical/Electronic Systems / AUTO 143 Engine Repair. Students who have had no previous automotive training must enroll in AUTO 100 Introduction to Automotive Technology or have instructor’s permission. Students may enroll in AUTO 100 Introduction to Automotive Technology concurrently.
The program is certified by the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Education Foundation. For the technician in the field, single classes may be taken for update upon instructor approval. For information during summer quarter please contact the Counseling/Career Center, (360) 596-5261.
Program Costs
The required set of first-year professional grade tools will typically cost anywhere between $2,000 to $10,000 depending on quality and brand from the vendor. Second-year purchases of professional-grade tools are highly recommended before graduation and can cost between $3,000 and $4,200 depending on quality and brand from the vendor. Books will cost approximately $300 for the two-year course.
Advanced Placement of Credit
Students with a previous automotive background or completion of high school automotive training can receive advanced placement credit for AUTO 100 and enroll directly into AUTO 141/142/143 depending on the quarter the student is starting. Students with no previous automotive training must enroll in AUTO 100 or have the instructor’s permission. Students may enroll in AUTO 100 concurrently.
For the technician in the field, single classes may be taken for update upon instructor approval. For information during summer quarter, please contact the the Advising, Career & Transfer Center at 360-596-5261.
Accreditation
The Automotive Technology Program curriculum is certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). They are also certified through Boeing's Pre-Employment Training (BPET) program where students are eligible to bypass the interview process when applying for certain manufacturing jobs at Boeing.
