The Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree enables graduates to enter the job market as an Automotive Service Technician or Mechanic. The program focuses on the application of technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain all types of automobiles. Students in this program study the following core courses:
- Engine Repair
- Automatic Transmissions
- Manual Transmissions/Drive Trains
- Steering and Suspension
- Brake systems
- Electrical systems
- Climate Control
- Engine performance
The objective of this program is to prepare automotive service technicians in the areas of basic diagnosis/repair of automotive systems using appropriate tools, equipment, procedures, and service information. Graduates may pursue careers in areas such as automotive service technicians, small and light engine mechanics, vehicle and mobile equipment mechanics, and installation, maintenance, and repair technicians.
We also offer diploma and certificate programs that provide basic installation, maintenance, and repair instruction within a shorter time frame. Additionally, a certificate graduate can continue his/her technical education in the Automotive Systems Technology associate degree program while earning a substantial income and gaining valuable work experience.
Programs
| Title | Credential | Credit Hours | Link to program details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Automotive Systems Technology A.A.S. | Degree | 65 | |
| Automotive Systems Technology Diploma | Diploma | 44 | |
| Automotive Systems Technology Certificate I | Certificate | 12 | |
| Automotive Systems Technology Certificate II | Certificate | 13 | |
Skills you'll learn
Goals of the A-B Tech Automotive Technology program provide the opportunity for students to:
- Develop analytical skills that will allow them to succeed in the automotive industry.
- Develop awareness of environmental concerns and safety practices relating to the automotive industry.
- Develop professionalism, integrity, and respect when working with members within the community.
- Develop skills necessary to gain employment as an entry-level repair technician.
- Prepare students for ASE certification tests.
The goals are reviewed on an annual basis to ensure the program is meeting the training needs of the students and the industry.
Career Opportunities
A.A.S. Degree
Automotive Service Technician and Mechanics
2017 Median Salary in North Carolina: $25.77/hr
(Source: U.S. Department of Labor, 2018)
Diploma
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics
2017 Median Salary in North Carolina: $18.18/hr
(Source: U.S. Department of Labor, 2018)
Certificate
2017 Median Salary in North Carolina: $14.12/hr
Automotive Service
(Source: U.S. Department of Labor, 2018)
Good to Know
- Choose your credential:
- Automotive Systems Technology A.A.S. Degree,
- Automotive Systems Technology Diploma, or
- Automotive Systems Technology Certificate I or II
- Apply to A-B Tech online by visiting Admissions Overview.
- Apply for the Automotive Systems Technology Program in person at the Bailey Building, Asheville Main Campus
The Automotive Systems Technology Program at A-B Tech is accredited by the ASE Foundation at the Master Automotive Service Technician level and provides instruction in all eight areas of auto repair. Located in the Dogwood Building, the facility is equipped with a full range of sophisticated automotive diagnostic equipment, computers, engine components, an information library, a comprehensive tool room, and other specialized repair equipment. Six repair bays equipped with two alignment racks, a chassis dynamometer, and an engine machine shop allow students to learn through hands-on use of tools and equipment.
Our comprehensive program includes courses in basic engine fundamentals, engine repair and performance, brakes and traction control systems, air conditioning, and heating, automatic and standard transmissions and transaxles, steering, suspension and alignment, and automotive electrical and electronic systems.
Automotive, diesel, and small engine mechanics perform a wide range of services on vehicles that are becoming increasingly complex. As a mechanic, you may find yourself performing tune-ups, flushing fuel systems, testing ignition, and emission systems, installing air conditioning systems, replacing brakes, and even building engines and transmissions.
To succeed in the automotive repair industry, you will need to have an excellent understanding of the mechanical components and the electrical and computer control systems that can cause them to malfunction. You will also need excellent diagnostic and problem-solving skills, good hand-eye coordination, and manual dexterity.
Machining and power tools you may encounter in the Automotive Program include (but are not limited to) lathes, grinding machines, welding equipment, pneumatic wrenches, jacks, and hoists. Mechanics also need to be familiar with the diagnostic equipment used to measure factors such as engine timing and emissions. You may also need to use special tools like calipers to measure the condition of brake rotors and drums or bearing pullers to repair flywheels and pumps. Hand tools such as wrenches and screwdrivers to work in tight spaces and on small components will be essential.
David Walker
Department Chair, Transportation Technologies
Master A.S.E Certified Automobile Technician
Master A.S.E. Certified Heavy Truck Technician
- Phone: (828) 398-7223
- Email: davidwwalker@abtech.edu
David Walker
Chair, Transportation Technologies
Master A.S.E. Certified Automobile Technician
Master A.S.E. Certified Heavy Truck Technician
Diplomas, A.A.S., Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Automotive Systems Technology
Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology
- Phone: (828) 398-7223
- Email: davidwwalker@abtech.edu
Michael "Kevin" Fletcher
Instructor, Transportation Technologies
Master A.S.E. Certified Automobile Technician
Master A.S.E. Certified Heavy Truck Technician
A.S.E. Certified Advanced Engine Performance
A.S.E. Certified Light Vehicle Diesel Engines
A.S.E. Certified Maintenance and Light Repair
A.A.S., Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Automotive Systems Technology
- Phone: (828) 398-7214
- Email: michaelkfletcher@abtech.edu
Edwin Knies
Instructor, Transportation Technologies
General Motors Master Technician
Master A.S.E. Certified Automobile Technician
A.S.E. Certified Advanced Engine Performance
A.S.E. Certified Maintenance and Light Repair
A.A.S, Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
B.S., University of Evansville
Transportation Systems Technology
- Phone: (828) 398-7682
- Email: charleseknies@abtech.edu
Robert Parker
Instructor, Transportation Technologies
Master A.S.E. Certified Automobile Technician, L1
A.A.S., Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
B.A., College of Charleston
Transportation Systems Technology
- Phone: (828) 398-7212
- Email: robertmparker@abtech.edu
Charles "Hunter" Braswell
PT Instructor, Transportation Technologies
Master A.S.E. Certified Automobile Technician
A.A.S., Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Transportation Systems Technology
- Email: charleshbraswell@abtech.edu