Automotive Mechanics
Yesterday's automobiles were simple and fun. Backyard muscle car mechanics were plentiful back then, but really well-trained professional technicians with the skills to straighten out those really tough problems have always been scarce.
Today's automobiles are still fun, but they aren't simple anymore. And, while backyard mechanics are still around, they are fewer in number, and well-trained technicians are increasingly hard to find. One aftermarket service magazine puts the shortage of competent techs in the United States at more than one million, and as many as 15,000 new positions are opening yearly.
Technical Requirements
Fundamentals of Automotive Technology
Electrical Fundamentals
Electrical and Electronic Systems
Braking Systems
Steering and Suspension
Special Topics I and II
Motor Vehicle Air Conditioning
Drive Train and Axles
Engine Repair I and II
Automotive Emissions
Automotive Engines
Advanced Automotive Engines
Manual Transmission/Transaxle
Automatic Transmission/Transaxle
Engine Performance and Diagnostics
General Education Requirements
Introductory Technical English I
Introductory Mathematics I
Oral Communication Skills
Introductory Computer Skills II
Orientation
Total Credit Hours - 60
Estimated Salary
According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook 2014-2015, median hourly earnings of automotive service technicians and mechanics in 2012 was $17.60. The top 10 percent earned more than $60,070. Dealership technicians are often paid in conjunction with a commission based system that can vary by employer.
Job Opportunities
According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, job opportunities in this occupation are expected to be very good for persons who complete automotive training programs, and opportunities are expected to increase 9 percent through 2022.
Program Features
Electronic diagnostic equipment includes Snap-On/Sun's Computerized Dynamic Data Collector and cutting edge handheld scan tools like the OTC Genisys. Late model vehicles and powertrain components challenge students with contemporary training exercises and live work, not only in powertrain repair, but also in electronics systems, fuel injection, and engine performance. PC based automotive information retrieval systems such as All data provide students with comprehensive access to shop manuals on both import and domestic vehicles marketed in the United States from 1982 to the present model year.
National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation
The instruction, course of study, facilities, and equipment of Lurleen B. Wallace Community College Automotive Program has been evaluated by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) and meets the standards of quality for the training of automobile technicians in the following areas: Brakes, Electrical/Electronic Systems, Engine Performance, Suspension and Steering, Automatic Transmission & Transaxle, Engine Repair, Heating & Air Conditioning, and Manual Drivetrain and Axles.
