Automotive Technology

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Overview

If you’re interested in how cars and trucks run and how you can service and repair them, choose BTC’s automotive technician training program, which will help prepare you for top jobs in the automotive field.

Career choices are extensive in the field of automotive technology; you’ll be well-qualified for automotive technician or service technician jobs. Or you can work as a specialist in automatic transmission, brake, engine performance, or electrical systems. If you’re looking for an Automotive Technology associate degree program or certificate program that provides a wide range of high-demand skills sought by top employers (including automotive dealerships, auto rental companies, federal and local government repair shops, and fleet maintenance businesses), then check out the program at Bellingham Technical College. 

Program Outcomes

After successfully completing the AAS degree, students will be able to:

• Comply with personal and environmental safety practices specific to the automotive industry.
• Perform advanced maintenance and light repairs on various automotive systems.
• Diagnose and repair electrical and electronic systems.
• Provide critical thinking skills while utilizing technical information and testing procedures to diagnose customer concerns.
• Communicate work performed using trade specific language while documenting critical aspects clearly and concisely.
• Demonstrate positive work traits and excellent customer service skills.
• Research and identify emerging automotive related technologies.
• Model teamwork that is reflective of a diverse work environment.

After successfully completing the General Automotive Repair certificate, students will be able to:

• Comply with personal and environmental safety practices specific to the automotive industry.
• Perform fundamental maintenance and repairs on basic automotive systems
• Provide critical thinking skills while utilizing technical information to perform various repairs.
• Communicate work performed using trade specific language while documenting critical aspects clearly and concisely.

Placement Requirements

Admissions application and assessment in Reading, Math, and Writing is required. Your placement will determine where you begin your course sequence. Contact Admissions at 360.752.8345 or at admissions@btc.edu for assistance with academic planning.

Additional Requirements

Prior to enrolling in program classes, students are required to submit the following documentation to the Admissions & Advising office:

1. Copy of your valid Driver’s License (with no restrictions due to driving offenses);
2. Current complete 3-year driving record from Washington State DOL. This copy of your driving record will be kept on file for advising purposes only.

Important Program Notes:

1. You are required to maintain a valid driver’s license as long as you are enrolled in this program.
2. Many employers and internship providers in this field will only hire applicants who have a clean driving record.
3. Driving records (abstracts) can be obtained for a fee. It is the responsibility of the applicant to pay for and order their driving records. You may obtain a copy of your current “Abstract of Driving Record” at your local Department of Licensing or by accessing the Washington State Department of Licensing on the web at www.dol.wa.gov.
4. A renewed copy of your valid driver’s license (with no restrictions due to driving offenses) may again be required at the start of your second year in the program.
5. All General Education courses must be completed prior to the beginning of the 2nd year.

Degree and Certificate Requirements

Automotive Technology AAS Degree and Certificate completions require a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher with a minimum grade of D/1.0 in program courses. General education courses require a minimum grade of D/1.0.

Programs

• Automotive Technology, AAS

• General Automotive Repair Certificate

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