Automotive Service Technology I470608 (Full-Time)
Classes
 | March 29, 2011 |
MTWRF (8 am - 2 pm)
|
$7,778.00 / $3,858.00
| Tuition: |
$4,086.00
|
| Startup Costs: |
$3,858.00 |
| Fees: |
$18.00 |
| Insurance: |
$24.00 |
| Books/Supplies: |
$3,650.00 |
|
|
More Info |
Course Info
Length
19 Months (1800 Clock Hours)
Schedule
Monday-Friday; 8 am-2 pm
(This program begins every 9 weeks with one exception - May 2011)
Basic Skills Exit Requirements
TABE Test Scores: 10th Grade Reading, Math, and Language
(In lieu of the TABE test, degreed applicants may submit proof of a U.S. college degree from a regionally accredited institution and complete the Application for Admission. Please click here to view a list of approved regional accrediting agencies.)
This program is approved by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation.
Other Requirements
Students must be at least 18 and have a valid Florida driver's license.
Program Description
This program prepares students to become state-of-the-art automotive technicians who can analyze, repair and maintain high-tech automobiles to manufacturer's specifications.
Automotive Technology uses a computer managed laboratory and actual "live" hands-on work to train the automotive technicians of the future. The course of study takes students through brakes, suspension and steering, engine performance and repair, automatic and manual transmissions, drivelines, electrical systems, and air conditioning systems.
Students are prepared to take A.S.E. certification tests which can be a condition of employment and enables employers to offer better starting salaries. The program and the instructors are A.S.E. Master Certified.
Book and Supply Information
The following books and supplies are required for this program. All items listed on the fee sheet (see link below) are available at the Erwin Technical Center Bookstore. The ISBN number is located after each textbook. For the most current fee sheet, please contact the Student Services Office, Financial Aid Office or our Bookstore.
Automotive Books and Supplies
Employment/Career Opportunities
Career opportunities include technician, service writer, service manager and shop owner.
Salaries
Salaries for graduates range from $9.00-$15.00 per hour. The average salary for an experienced technician is about $45,000-$50,000. Potential yearly earnings can be as high as $75,000+.
Placement Rates
2006-07…………75%
2007-08…………77%
NOTE: A history of felony convictions or substance abuse may adversely affect your ability to gain employment in this field. We encourage you to consider your personal history when making appropriate career choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific math skills are needed in this field?
Addition, subtraction, multiplication, division of whole numbers, fractions, and decimals are needed in this field.
What specific personal characteristics make for good mechanics?
In today's world good mechanics are 'Auto Technicians'. They must be prepared to work closely with customers and present themselves as clean, well dressed technicians and take pride in their work.
What does it mean to be ASE Certified and how important is it?
ASE is a nationally recognized technician certification. It certifies one's competence in the knowledge of various automobile areas. ASE certifications can greatly influence employment opportunities and/or salary level.
Which parts of the program are more difficult than others?
Difficulty varies with the individual; most students find that their strong points differ from the strong points of their classmates. Many students specialize in particular repair areas. The better technicians always have an understanding of all repair areas.
Is there any computer training in the program?
Yes, due to the complexity of today's automobile, every course has automobile computer training. The 'Computer Literacy' component of the program prepares students for the necessary skills to use today's diagnostic equipment.
What are the local employment opportunities for auto technicians within the next 2 - 3 years?
Hillsborough County registered more than 13,000 additional cars last year. The demand for more repair technicians, to cover the additional cars, has been falling far short. This, of course, means job security and higher wages. Our school receives a tremendous number of job offerings. We could double the number of graduates and still not be able to fill every position in the local area.
What are my potential earnings when I become ASE certified?
Earnings depend on individual skill, certifications, and place of employment. Entry level salaries are usually $9-15 per hour/$21,000-30,000 per year. The average salary for an experienced technician is about $45-50,000. Potential yearly earnings can be as high as $75,000+.
What career opportunities are available in this field?
Automotive service technicians can move into other job areas such as service advisor, service manager, or general manager. Most companies prefer to promote technicians, who have established records in their firm, to these positions.
Where have graduates found employment?
Graduates have been employed by AutoWay Chevrolet, Olin Mott, Ferman Chevrolet, Goodyear, Jerry Ulm Dodge, Brandon Honda, Northgate Lincoln Mercury, Stadium Toyota, ACE Tire & Auto Repair, Ferman Oldsmobile, Courtesy Lincoln Mercury, Tampa Hondaland, Precision Motor Cars, Ernie Haire Ford, Lindell Honda Courtesy Toyota, Everett/Morrison Motor Cars, Firestone, Reeves BMW, Hummer, VW, Land Rover, Maserati, Nissan of Brandon, Engine Lab, Fusion Automotive, Tampa Infiniti.
Is job placement available upon graduation?
Advisory committee representatives and teachers provide students with guidance and recommendations.
How can I learn more about this career field?
Click here for more information.