Students in the Automotive Technology Program will receive preparation in eight areas of Automotive Service Excellence using state of the art equipment with master technician instructors. Those eight areas are brakes, electronic systems, engine performance, suspension and steering, automatic and manual transmission and trans axle, engine repair, and heating and air conditioning. Graduates of the program gain a competitive edge going forward in the automotive industry, providing them with an advantage when applying for any positions in the automotive repair industry.
For more information regarding credentialing and accreditation please see the Accreditation page.
This program may provide prior learning credit and extended learning opportunities for persons previously or currently employed in related professions.
For more information see the Credit for Prior Learning page.
Associate of Applied Science
- Automotive Technology AAS (curriculum map | catalog)
Less-Than-One-Year Certificate
FAQ
Are there special admission requirements for the program?
The Automotive Technology AAS degree has special admissions requirements. Please meet with and secure an admissions packet from Student Services staff.
What does a automotive technician do?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, automotive service technicians "inspect, maintain, and repair cars and light trucks." Students who complete the Automotive Technology program at KCC will leave prepared to work as an automotive service technician, including Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification.What is the difference between a service technician and a mechanic?
An auto mechanic is widely versed on maintenance and repair on several parts of a car. An automotive service technician interacts with the computers in your car to test and diagnose problems. Auto technicians tend to work on only one or two brands, while mechanics usually work on several makes and models of cars.What is an automotive engineer?
According to Study.com, "Automotive engineers can design and test brake systems, engines, safety mechanisms, fuel technologies and transmissions. In the field, engineers use design software to devise new vehicle designs or systems, including ThinkDesign Engineering, Gamma Technologies GT-SUITE or Corel Painter Sketch Pad. Some engineers also use grinders, machine tools and workshop presses to fabricate prototype parts for testing. Individuals interested in designing, testing and creating automotive systems may be drawn to this line of work."Careers in Automotive Science
Median Annual Salary
- United States:
$49,670 - Oregon State:
$63,422 - Klamath Region:
$58,059
2025-2035 Employment Projection
4% GrowthEntry Level Educational Requirements:
CertificateProspective Jobs
| Electronic equipment installer | Automotive service technician | Mechanic |
| Industrial machinery mechanic | Mechanical engineer | Automotive engineer |
All data was gathered from the State of Oregon Employment Department and Bureau of Labor Statistics