Choose a Stimulating and Innovative Career.
Modern cars and trucks are very advanced machines that contain hundreds of electronic sensors and countless computers and it takes technicians who embrace the challenge to use logic and expertise to maintain and repair them. The automotive technician career pathway is highly regarded in our society because it takes people with very advanced skills to work on them. Employment of automotive service technicians and mechanics is expected to increase 6 percent between 2016 and 2026. If you are interested in a career repairing and servicing automobiles in this exciting field, then ECTC could have just what you're looking for.
What are my career choices?
Demand for technicians will grow as the number of vehicles in operation increases, reflecting continued growth in the driving age population and in the number of multi-car families. This means you will have a variety of employment opportunities. Persons trained in automotive repair can expect to find employment in new car dealerships, government and independent fleets, as well as independent and franchised repair facilities.
There are countless opportunities for our students to work while getting their education. Most employers are happy to let students work part-time while attending school because this allows our students to get started in the business and gain valuable experience while getting their education. These students typically work more hours during the summer and winter breaks and then have a guaranteed “full-time” job upon graduation. To see the recent job posts available, click on the Facebook link below that will take you to the Facebook page for our program.
What classes do I have to take?
You will take academic and theory courses and get your hands dirty in ECTC's state-of-the-art automotive shop, which has late model cars, trucks and hybrid vehicles.
What are my degree, diploma or certificate options?
Degrees and Transfers
- Automotive Technology - Associate in Applied Science (AAS)
ECTC has numerous partnerships with 4-year universities. If you are interested in a transfer pathway in this field, check out our partnering university pathways. Find more information on transferring from ECTC.
Diploma Options
Certificate Options
- Automatic Transmission/Transaxle Technician - Certificate
- Automotive Air Conditioning Mechanic - Certificate
- Automotive Electrician - Certificate
- Brake Repairer - Certificate
- Engine Repairer - Certificate
- Front End Mechanic - Certificate
- Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Technician - Certificate
- Manual Transmission/Drive Train Technician - Certificate
- Tune-up Mechanic - Certificate
Accreditation
The Automotive Technology program at ECTC is accredited by the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Education Foundation, and students have the opportunity to take tests leading to certification by ASE.
Field Licensure Requirements
Some employers in the automotive industry require ASE certification. ASE certification is not required to complete the program at the college, but students are encouraged to become ASE certified to improve their job prospects.
Resources
Where do I start?
Apply for admission to ECTC to receive information from the Admissions Office about submitting your placement test scores (ACT or other exams) and to schedule a meeting with an advisor to register for your classes.
Length of Program
You can earn an Associate in Applied Science degree in two years if you maintain full-time status.
This information should not be considered a substitute for the KCTCS Catalog. You should always choose classes in cooperation with your faculty advisor to ensure that you meet all degree requirements.
