Revision Date:
Tuesday, May 02, 2023
Automotive, Welding & Machining Pathway
Work with leading-edge tools and equipment to solve problems and get creative across several growing trades. Auto technician, machinist, or welder—set a target on your career via our Automotive, Welding, and Manufacturing Pathway.
At the completion of the Automotive Technology program, the successful student will be able to:
- Demonstrate the ability to identify, analyze and provide diagnostic solutions to automotive repair projects
- Apply effective communication skills as a team member by properly completing work order summaries containing the three “C’s” (complaint, cause, correction)
- Interpret and apply mathematical equations used in the automotive industry
- Apply the appropriate legal repair standards and technical practices while diagnosing and repairing customer-based cars
- Critique their own ability to work effectively and collaboratively in multi-disciplinary lab teams
- Be proficient in the safe and proper use of automotive hand tools
- Demonstrate the skills and knowledge in the use of modern shop diagnostic and repair equipment
- Demonstrate the hands-on competency in the following NATEF task areas; automatic transmission/transaxle, manual drive train, steering and suspension systems, brakes, electrical/electronic systems, heating and air conditioning, engine performance and engine repair
- Research applicable vehicle information using computer based service manuals
- Demonstrate the ability to write a vehicle work order summary containing the three “C” (complaint, cause, correction)
- Demonstrate the entry-level knowledge necessary to take the ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) tests
Program Costs
The required set of first year professional grade tools will typically cost $2,000 or more depending on the vendor. Second year purchase of professional grade tools are highly recommended before graduation and can cost up to $3,000 or more. Books will cost approximately $800 for the two-year course.
Advanced Placement of Credit
Students with previous automotive background or completion of high school automotive training can receive advanced placement credit for AUTO 100 and enroll directly into AUTO 108. Students who have had no previous automotive training must enroll in AUTO 100 or have instructor’s permission. Students may enroll in AUTO 100 concurrently.
200 Level Courses
All 100 level Automotive courses must be completed with a “C” or better in order to enroll in 200 level Automotive courses.
Summer Courses
For the technician in the field, single classes may be taken for update upon instructor approval. For information during summer quarter please contact the the Advising, Career & Transfer Center at 360-596-5261.
The program is certified by the National Automotive Technician Education Foundation.
CCS101
3cr
Pathways to Success
Cultivates the mind-set and skills necessary for students to become confident, reflective, self-directing, and successful learners.
AUTO141
13cr
Chassis Systems
Provides an in-depth study of modern domestic and import vehicle steering, suspension, and braking systems including inspection, diagnosis, repair, and adjustment.
AUTO142
13cr
Electrical/Electronic Systems
Provides an in-depth study of the electrical/electronic systems in modern vehicles. Emphasizes Ohm�s Law, electrical diagrams, diagnosis of advanced circuits, battery systems and testing including high voltage batteries, and automotive starting, charging, and chassis accessory circuits.
AUTO143
13cr
Engine Repair
Introduces basic engine component identification and engine theory on most import and domestic vehicles. Emphasizes engine condition diagnosis, disassembly, engine measurements and component diagnosis, precise measuring procedures, and engine reassembly.
Note: AUTO100 or instructor permission is a pre-requisite for AUTO141, 142, and 143. Students can begin AUTO in fall, winter, or spring, in a morning or evening section, with whichever AUTO141, 142, or 143 course is offered at the time of entry.