Demand for automotive service technicians and mechanics is expected to grow about as fast as the average among all occupations. The number of jobs is expected to remain the same over the period 2021 to 2031 – an estimated 733,200. The number of vehicles on the road due to the number of eligible drivers and the advent of multi-car families are just some factors that create demand for qualified auto mechanics.
Technicians at the entry-level get by with a non-degree, post-secondary education. Some mechanics acquire their skills through short-term apprenticeships or through paid on-the-job training. They learn to perform basic tasks such as oil changes, repairs and maintenance of engines, transmissions, changing brake pads, and troubleshooting and repairing climate control and electrical systems. Mechanics who pursue formal training may go on to acquire national certification and are better prepared to repair and service the complex electronic systems in today’s vehicles. Formal auto mechanic programs run for 12 to 24 months and may culminate with a diploma or Associate of Science degree.
Austin Community College
The automotive program at Austin Community College prepares students to meet the needs of a modern automotive service facility. The program content is delivered primarily through real-world approaches to diagnostic and skills building. Students will gain a thorough understanding of system theory and operations. Faculty will encourage independent, self-directed learning through hands-on experiences with mock-ups and modern vehicles and use of computer programs and audiovisuals. They will combine classroom lessons with hands-on shop time where students will repair real customers’ cars. There will be opportunities to work on hybrid electric systems. Course modules include automotive and drive train axles, automotive automatic transmissions and transaxle, engine performance analysis, automotive electronics, automotive alternative fuels, automotive service OR, advanced diesel tune-up, and internship. Students will complete a total of 32 credit hours to earn the certificate. ACC is certified by the ASE Education Foundation, so graduates will be one step closer to ASE technician certification.
Program overview:
Automotive Technology and Outdoor Powered Equipment – Certificate
Duration: 2 semesters
Semester credit hours: 32
Prerequisites:
- Apply for admission to ACC
- Apply for admission to the Automotive program
- Attend an information session before applying to the program
- Complete the immunization requirements before application
- Must have health insurance during specific semesters
Program cost:
Tuition costs $85 per credit hour for resident (in-state) students and $286 for those out-of-state. The cost for fees, books, supplies, and uniforms are additional.
- Website: http://www.austincc.edu/
- Address: 1020 Grove Boulevard, Austin, Texas 78741
- Phone: (512) 223-6000
Southern Careers Institute
The automotive service technician program at Southern Careers Institute combines hands-on experience in real-world automotive environments with technical training. The program includes paid on-the-job training that will let students earn while they learn. There will be an emphasis on the development of skills in the areas of automotive engine repair, automatic and manual transmissions, suspension, steering and braking, exhaust and emissions, HVAC and electrical, ignition systems and diagnostics, and much more. Graduates will be prepared to sit for the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification and for employment as a full service auto technician, general service mechanic, or quick lube technician.
Program overview:
Automotive Service Technician Apprenticeship
Duration: 9 months
Clock hours: 700
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 16 years of age – applicants who have not reached the age of 18 at the time of admissions must provide proof of high school diploma or GED and have written permission from a parent or legal guardian
- Must have a high school diploma or GED – official transcripts or a verifiable diploma required
- Must apply for admission to SCI
- Must provide criminal history information
- Must be proficient in the English language – reading, writing, verbal
Program cost:
Students admitted to the program will get paid as they learn.
- Website: https://scitexas.edu/
- Address: 238 Southwest Military Dr., Suite 101, San Antonio, TX 78221
- Phone: 844-783-6569
Universal Technical Institute
Students enrolled in the diesel technology program at Universal Technical Institute will learn how to repair, diagnose, and service heavy equipment systems, commercial vehicles and diesel engine components. They will gain knowledge from the basics to advanced. The program is delivered in a blended learning model which includes a combination of online learning and hands-on application in the school’s lab. Course modules in diesel engines service and repair, diesel hydraulic systems, vehicle electronic systems and technology, diesel truck transport refrigeration, preventative maintenance, automotive climate control systems and repair, brake systems and chassis, manual transmissions, diesel truck transport refrigeration, and steering and suspension systems. Students will take a written end-of-course test and final lab and maintain a 70% or higher to graduate from the program.
Program overview:
Diesel Technology
Duration: 45 weeks
Semester credit hours: 53.5
Clock hours: 1202.5
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Must have a high school diploma or GED
- Must apply for admission to UTI
- Must be able to pass a criminal background check
- Must be proficient in the English language – reading, writing, verbal
Program cost:
The total program cost of $37,065 includes tuition, textbooks, registration fee, lab fee, and equipment fee.
- Website: https://www.uti.edu/
- Address: 301 W. Howard Lane, Austin, TX 78753
- Phone: 737-284-3100
Central Texas College
The Diesel Engine Technician and Maintainer program at Central Texas College is open to adults who wish to pursue a career in the diesel repair field. The program takes a systems approach which allows the student to enter any one of the many separate fields of diesel repair. It includes lots of hands-on training in diesel service and repair using the latest technologies in diesel systems, tools, and equipment. Course topics include shop safety and procedures, diesel engine, heating, ventilation and air conditioning troubleshooting and repair, power train, basic electrical systems, basic brake systems, basic hydraulics, diesel engine testing and repair, steering and suspension, advanced diesel tune-up and troubleshooting, and an internship in diesel mechanics technology. Interactive computer-aided training is used to enhance some courses. AAS students will need to complete general education coursework to qualify for the degree. Graduates will be prepared to take the Medium/Heavy Truck ASE certification tests.
Program overview:
Diesel Engine Technician and Maintainer AAS
Duration: 2 years full-time
Credit hours: 60
Prerequisites:
- At least 18 years or older
- Must have a high school diploma or GED
- Schedule and attend an appointment with an Admissions Representative
- Submit an application for admission to the College/program
- Provide proof of residency status
- Provide immunization records
Program cost:
Tuition costs $100 per credit for resident-in-district and $124 for resident out-of-district.
- Website: https://www.ctcd.edu/
- Address: P.O. Box 1800, Killeen, TX 76540-1800
- Phone: 1-800-223-4760