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Automotive Mechanics

Automotive service technicians inspect, maintain, or repair automobiles and light trucks with gasoline engines.  When technical or electrical troubles occur, the technician may have to test drive the vehicle or use a variety of testing equipment, such as on-board and hand-held diagnostic computers and compression gauges to locate the problem, then make adjustments or repairs once the cause of the problem is found.

Technicians use a variety of tools in their work, from power tools such as pneumatic wrenches to remove bolts, to machine tools like lathes and grinding machines to rebuild brakes, to welding and flame-cutting equipment to remove and repair exhaust system, to jack and hoists to lift cars and engines.  They also use common hand tools to work on small parts and in hard-to-reach places.

At modern shops and automobile dealerships, service technicians use electronic service equipment, such as infrared engine analyzers and computerized diagnostic devices to diagnose problems and make precision adjustments with precise calculations downloaded from large databases.

Starting salaries of most auto mechanics range between $15,000 and $24,000 per year depending upon job location and individual competence.  Most service technicians work on salary/commission after a year employed in the field.

Students may complete a two-year Associate Applied Science Degree in General Technology by designing an individualized program of study.  To fulfill degree requirements for the AAS degree, courses from two or more different technical disciplines along with general education requirements must be completed.  The Chairman of the Technology Division assists students in preparing an individualized program of study.

The Automotive Mechanics program is an instructional program that prepares individuals to engage in the servicing and maintenance of all types of automobiles.  Students will have the opportunity to upgrade and update their knowledge so that they may enter at an advanced level and continue to progress in the occupation.