Automotive and Engine Technology

In today’s high-tech world, a career in the automotive industry means working with computers as much as with wrenches. And as the demand for hybrid and electric cars increases, technical knowledge and skills are more important than ever.

County vocational-technical schools offer industry-driven, hands-on training to repair and maintain the mechanical and electrical systems powering today’s vehicles. The schools operate state-of-the-art automotive technology shops, and many give students the opportunity to do “live work” on staff and community members’ cars.

As students in county vocational-technical schools learn and train, they simultaneously work toward certifications necessary for a career in the automotive industry through the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Education Foundation. ASE program accreditation ensures that automotive technology programs stay aligned with industry expectations and new technology.

Why Automotive and Engine Technology?

Career allows you to work with your hands, put problem-solving skills to work, and operate in a variety of settings
Accounts for 700,000+ jobs
Projected 69,000 openings each year, on average, mostly due to retirements or employees leaving the profession
Demand expected to continue increasing, with Tech Force Foundation projecting a shortage of 642,000 auto, diesel, and collision technicians by 2024
Average hourly wage exceeds $21 an hour in most settings

Three BCIT students work to repair a Hummer.

A student uses virtual technology as part of BCIT’s automotive collision training.

Two Passaic County students work under the hood of a car as part of their hands-on learning.

Career pathways in this area include:

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Aviation engineer or technician

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Auto body repair technician

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Automotive technician/mechanic

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Automotive engineer

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Diesel mechanic

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Industrial machinery mechanic

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Marine mechanic

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Mechanical engineer

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Motorcycle and small engine technician

For Students And Parents:

To see what automotive and engine technology programs your county vocational-technical school offers, find your school.

For Adult Students:

To look for specific automotive and engine technology programs at county vocational-technical schools near you, use the “Find Adult Career Programs” tool.

For More Information About Careers In Automotive and Engine Technology:

O*Net OnLine has comprehensive information on all types of jobs, including surveys that help people find careers they might enjoy.

View videos on career pathways in the automotive industry:

From US Department of Labor Career One-Stop:
https://www.careeronestop.org/videos/careeronestop-videos.aspx?videocode=49302300

From US Bureau of Labor Statics – Automotive service technician:
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/automotive-service-technicians-and-mechanics.htm

Learn what’s new in automotive technology at Working Nation.