Qualified and trained automotive mechanics are always in demand. A decline in economic growth may affect new car sales, but there’s always a need for technicians to diagnose and repair vehicles. Apart from repairs, millions of motorists require routine service and oil done to their vehicle on an established schedule. Businesses with their existing fleet of vehicles need to keep them maintained to service their customers. The opportunities for mechanics are broad and endless. They also earn a nice living with a median annual salary of $44,050 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Auto technology programs include theory and hands-on training that will enable to diagnose and service vehicles and prepare for ASE certification. You can also go on to specialize in a specific area to improve your opportunities and earning potential.
Southern Career Institute
Southern Career Institute prepares adults for entry-level employment as an automotive service technician in less than one year. The program is fast-paced with extensive hands-on activities which will help students transition from the classroom to the workplace seamlessly. Students will have the opportunity to work with simple and high tech tools used in the field. The program facilitates paid on-the-job training so students will earn while they learn. Rotations will take place at local dealerships. At the conclusion of the training, the graduate will be ready for employment as a full-service technician, quick lube service technician, or general service mechanic. Students will also be prepared to sit for the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification. Class hours vary.
Program overview:
Automotive Service Technician
Duration: 9 months
Clock hours: N/A
Prerequisites:
- Interview with an Admissions Representative
- Tour the campus
- Submit unofficial proof of high school graduation or GED – official proof must be supplied within 21 days of starting school
- Complete the SCI enrollment agreement
- Must complete and pass a background check
- Must be able to read, write and speak English
- Submit a completed application for admission
Program cost:
The program is delivered as a paid apprenticeship.
Website: https://scitexas.edu/
Address: 6963 Northwest Loop 410, San Antonio, TX 78238
Phone: 1.833.SCI.TEXAS
St Philip’s College Southwest Campus
The Automotive Technician program at SPC prepares students for employment in the automotive service industry. Both lectures and hands-on experiences will help students develop skills to function effectively as service technicians using advanced service equipment on modern automobiles and simulators. Course topics include Introducton and Theory of Automotive Technology, Automotive Brakes, Contemporary Mathematics, Automotive Electrical Systems, Automotive Engine Repair, Automotive Suspension and Steerign Systems, Automotive Electrical Diagnosis and Repair, Climate Control Systems, Automotive Drive Trains and Axles, Engine Performance Analysis, Field Experience, and more. The program is Master Certified by the ASE Education Foundation. Students will be prepared for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification.
Program overview:
Automotive Technology, AAS
Duration: 2 years
Credit hours: 60
Prerequisites:
- Must complete the application process by the published deadline
- Submit a completed application for admission to SPC via ApplyTexas
- Request official transcripts of high school and college courses completed and have them submitted to SPC
- High school transcripts must indicate the graduation date
- GED/HSE admissions recipients must submit an official passing score report
- Complete the TSI assessment and submit scores for reading and writing, and math skills – exemption will be granted to applicants who submit satisfactory ACT or SAT scores or those who have earned an associate or baccalaureate degree from an accredited Texas public institution
Program cost:
Tuition costs $99 per credit for in-district students and $215 per credit for out-of-district students. Fees, books, supplies, and admission costs are not included.
Website: https://www.alamo.edu/home/
Address: 2222 N. Alamo St., San Antonio, Texas 78215
Phone: 210-486-7082
South Texas Vocational Technical Institute
South Texas Vocational Technical Institute’s Automotive Service Technology diploma program prepares students for entry-level career in the automotive service industry. The program includes theory and practical skills. Students will work with hand and specialty tools to transition seamlessly into the workplace. Training will include 402 lecture hours and 792 lab hours. Areas of study are Engine Repair & Basic Electrical, Brakes, Suspension & Steering, Heating, AC & Associated Electrical Systems, Manual and Automatic Transmissions, and Engine Performance. Graduates will be prepared to sit for the EPA 609 A/C Technician certification as recognized by Automotive Service Excellence. They may be eligible for entry-level employment in specialized or general automotive service positions. Morning sessions meet Monday through Thursday from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm and Friday from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm. Afternoon sessions meet Monday through Thursday from 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm and Friday from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Evening sessions meet 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm on Monday through Thursday and on Friday from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
Program overview:
Automotive Service Technician
Duration: 50 weeks
Clock hours: 1200 instructional hours
Quarter credit hours: 71.5
Prerequisites:
- Must have a high school diploma or GED
- Complete an application for admission
- Attend an interview with an Admission Representative
- Remit the registration fee to confirm enrollment
- Complete an enrollment agreement
- Must undergo a background check
Program cost:
Tuition and registration for the program cost $24,708. Books, tools, and kit are included in the program tuition.
Website: https://www.stvt.edu/
Address: 734 SE Military Dr., San Antonio, TX 78214
Phone: (866) 480-9776