Automotive Technology

Learn by Doing

Automotive technology is a study of the complete automobile divided into a subsystem approach. This program of study explores and instructs students in the operation of all automotive systems. Processes are emphasized including problem solving, repair procedures, service techniques, diagnostic analysis, and shop safety. All automotive system instruction meets Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) guidelines and National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) certification.

Program Awards

Our Automotive Technology programs are included in the Applied Technology & Hospitality Management field of study and offer these awards:

Award	Location	Estimated Completion	Program Map
Automotive Electric Vehicle Technology, Associate in Science Degree: Career/Technical	Chula Vista	# Semesters
Automotive Technology, Associate in Science Degree: Career/Technical	Chula Vista	# Semesters
Advanced Emission Specialist, Certificate of Achievement	Chula Vista	# Semesters
Automotive Performance Systems, Certificate of Achievement	Chula Vista	# Semesters
Automotive Technology, Certificate of Achievement	Chula Vista	# Semesters
Automotive Brake and Suspension Systems (ABS and Four-Wheel Alignment), Certificate of Proficiency	Chula Vista	# Semesters
Automotive HVAC Specialist, Certificate of Proficiency	Chula Vista	# Semesters

Common Careers

Below is a sample of the career options for the automotive major. Most require a certificate or an associate in science degree. Automotive Service Excellence Certification will allow entry-level employment as: mechanic, automotive technician, service station attendant, repair shop operator, service writer/advisor, part sales person, automobile insurance adjuster, vocational teacher, race car mechanic, supplier or distributor, and positions in allied professions of business, marketing, and industry.

The average annual salary in this field is $59,900 for occupations like Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics.

Typical Duties

• Getting Information
  Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
• Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment
  Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
• Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
  Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
• Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment
  Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
• Making Decisions and Solving Problems
  Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
• Handling and Moving Objects
  Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
• Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events
  Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
• Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
  Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
• Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment
  Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.
• Working with Computers
  Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
• Performing General Physical Activities
  Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
• Controlling Machines and Processes
  Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
• Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards
  Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
• Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
  Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
• Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People
  Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
• Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others
  Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
• Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
  Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
• Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work
  Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
• Analyzing Data or Information
  Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
• Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships
  Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
• Thinking Creatively
  Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
• Communicating with People Outside the Organization
  Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
• Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information
  Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
• Processing Information
  Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.