Automotive Technology Certificate

Carl Sandburg College offers a two-semester certificate program in Automotive Technology providing students with the basic skills to gain employment in automotive dealerships, automotive technology centers, and independent service centers.

Automotive Technology Program Goals

• Provide instructional material and learning experiences related to the tasks performed by individuals to be employed in the field of automotive technology service and repair
• Provide program completers with knowledge and specialization in the field of automotive technology that supplies them with technical and workplace skill sets marketable to the private sector

Nature of the Work

The work of automotive service technicians and mechanics has evolved from simply mechanical to high technology. Technicians must have an increasingly broad base of knowledge about how vehicles’ complex electronic components work and interact, as well as the ability to work with electronic diagnostic equipment and computer-based technical reference materials. Automotive service technicians and mechanics use these high tech skills to inspect, maintain, and repair vehicles. The ability to diagnose the source of a problem quickly and accurately requires good reasoning ability and a thorough knowledge of automobiles. Many technicians consider diagnosing hard-to-find troubles one of their most challenging and satisfying duties.

Working Conditions

Almost half of automotive service technicians work a standard 40-hour week, but about one third work over 40 hours per week. Many of those working over 40- hour weeks are self-employed technicians. Some shops offer evening and weekend service to meet the needs of their customers. Generally, service technicians work indoors in well ventilated and lighted repair shops.

Employment

Job opportunities for those individuals who complete automotive training programs are expected to be very good. Persons with good diagnostic and problem-solving skills should have the best opportunity. For well-prepared people with a technical background, automotive service technicians careers offer an excellent opportunity for good pay and secure employment. To learn more about the admission requirements and the application process for this program, call 309.345.3500.

Admission to the Program: Open

First-time Enrollees

1. Complete an application for admission and, if desired, apply for financial aid.
2. Send an official high school transcript or GED score report to the Admissions and Records Office.
3. Complete the placement exam.
4. Meet with an advisor/counselor to select classes and complete the registration process.

Department of Career & Technical Education

2400 Tom L. Wilson Blvd.
Galesburg, IL 61401
309.345.3501

For Additional Information Contact:

The Welcome Center
Phone: 309.345.3500
welcomecenter@sandburg.edu

For Graduation Requirements:

See the graduation policies and procedures page for details .