High School Programs

At the high school level, you have opportunities as a student to explore the possibilities of an automotive technology education.  There are high schools in North Carolina with preparatory programs to meet your needs.

These programs provide basic course work in auto repair and engineering.  These programs are excellent resources if you are considering a career in automotive technology.  Because of the sophistication of today's current automotive technologies, you will get exposure to the computer equipment and other electrical components used today in addition to other hands on training with traditional tools. Graduating with certification from these programs will offer opportunities at the entry level, but to enhance your experience and to increase your job opportunities, taking coursework at a North Carolina community college is the next step.

Community College Programs

Programs at community colleges in North Carolina offer flexibility and a combination of classroom instruction and hands on training. In North Carolina, you can choose between Certificate programs and Associate Degree programs. Certificate programs typically take less than one year and concentrate on advanced job skills required by industry. Associate in applied science degrees usually take two years (including the summer between) and prepare you for employment in technical areas.

Postsecondary automotive technician training programs vary greatly in format, but normally provide intensive career preparation through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on practice. Some trade and technical school programs provide concentrated training for 6 months to a year, depending on how many hours the student attends each week. Community college programs normally spread the training over 2 years; supplement the automotive training with instruction in English, basic mathematics, computers, and other subjects; and award an associate degree or certificate. Recently, some programs have added to their curriculums training on employability skills such as customer service and stress management. Employers find that these skills help technicians handle the additional responsibilities of dealing with the customers and parts vendors.

As is evident, there is something for everyone in the NCCCS programs!  You can choose from many programs based on the jobs you would like to do, your interest in the particular subject, and the skills you want to acquire.  Best of all, the automotive industry has been growing steadily, so you will have the skills in order to be placed in a job right away! Search for a college near you that offers the programs you are interested in and then come in and check us out!