Automotive Technology
When you successfully complete WNCC’s Automotive Technology program, you will be prepared
for positions such as an automotive technician, auto body technician, parts manager,
salesperson, service station technician, assistant foreman, vehicle fleet technician,
and others. Certain areas of specialization can lead to parallel careers in aviation,
small engine, and equipment maintenance.
If you know you want to work in mechanical repair, but are unsure what you want to
specialize in, this degree program is the perfect place to start. Auto tech careers
are physically active, hands-on occupations where you’ll need analytical and logical-thinking
skills to trouble-shoot mechanical issues. These are occupations where you will need
to stay on top of new trends in technology repair and maintenance, as well as new
car models and manufacturers. You can specialize in specific manufacturers to distinguish
yourself from others, yet often being able to work on a variety of vehicles is preferred.
This is a career where, with enough experience, you could run your own auto repair
business. This is more than just a job, it’s a life of seeing satisfied customers
driving away with a well-functioning car.
Automotive Technology - Powertrain and Chassis Repair Option (Certificate)
WNCC’s Auto Tech Powertrain & Chassis Repair certificate will prepare you for positions
such as an automotive technician, parts manager, auto body technician, salesperson,
service station technician, assistant foreman, vehicle fleet technician, and many
others. This option allows you to specialize in the service, diagnosis, and repair
of automatic and manual transmissions, transaxles, and chassis systems.
You will work in auto repair shops, gas station garages, car sales lots, taxi cab
barns, rental car agency lots, bus fleet garages, and anywhere with a large fleet
of vehicles. You can even open your own auto transmission and chassis repair business
once you have enough experience. The tasks you need to perform in these positions
are hands-on and require you to be as mentally active as you will be physically active.
You will need logical and critical thinking to solve many transmission and chassis
vehicle issues. This is an occupation where you’ll need to learn continually about
the updated repair techniques, new manufacturers and car models, and innovative technology
being installed in cars in order to repair them correctly. If you’ve always loved
the idea of working with cars and want to really explore their inner workings, you
will find enjoyment with each vehicle you work on.
Automotive Technology - Drivetrain and Under Hood Repair Option (Certificate)
This certificate will prepare you for positions such as automotive technician, auto
body technician, parts manager, salesperson, service station technician, assistant
foreman, vehicle fleet technician, and others. This option allows you to specialize
in the service, diagnosis, and repair of driveshafts, axles, joints, differentials,
wheels, cooling systems, electrical systems, fuel injection systems, belts and chains,
and more.
Working in these hands-on, physically active positions, you will need to use logical
and analytical-thinking skills to problem-solve common and uncommon vehicle issues.
You will usually work in an auto repair garage, gas station garage, or auto servicing
center. With enough experience, you could even open your own auto repair shop. These
careers enable you to expand your knowledge of different car manufacturers, new technologies,
and updated repair techniques in order to service and repair today’s vehicles. If
you revel in tinkering with machinery and are apt at trouble-shooting this is the
career for you!
For more information on any of these career options, contact Career Pathways & Advising at pathways@wncc.edu.
