Automotive
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Department: Automotive
Program Type: Automotive and Truck Driving
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Overview
Accelerate your career path with Elgin Community College's Automotive program. As an automotive student, You'll receive thorough training covering all aspects of vehicle maintenance for different types of vehicles. Our automotive instructors are highly skilled professionals with ASE Professional Level certification. Many hold the title of Master Technician and have 20-30 years of experience. They'll be there to mentor you, helping you learn diagnostic skills, troubleshooting, and essential shop safety procedures.
At ECC, We prepare students to demonstrate proficiency with various tools essential for automotive repair. Students learn to identify components and articulate the purpose and function of various automotive systems. The curriculum covers the basic operation of major vehicle systems. It emphasizes performing preventative maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Students also gain hands-on experience in diagnosing and repairing various automotive systems. This equips them with practical skills essential for a successful automotive career.
Get additional information, including course listings and class descriptions.
Prepare for Immediate Employment
The employment outlook for the automotive industry varies depending on the specific occupation and location. Over the decade, roughly 73,300 job openings for automotive service technicians are projected yearly. This specific role is expected to increase with the increase in demand. Service technicians will be needed to perform repair and maintenance checks on fixing or repairing parts. Refer to Career Coach for more information regarding similar occupations and compensation.
Plan of Study and Course Descriptions
Review the ECC catalog for details about the automotive plan of study and course descriptions.
Associate of Applied Science
Basic Vocational Certificates
How to Become an Automotive Specialist?
Elgin Community College's Associate of Applied Science in Automotive offers comprehensive training in automotive maintenance for various vehicle types. The program covers the function, construction, operation, and servicing of key automotive components like fuel systems, transmissions, and electrical systems. Students also learn diagnostic and troubleshooting techniques, as well as shop safety and procedures. The curriculum ensures students gain hands-on experience in maintaining and repairing a wide range of automotive systems.
Automotive Certificates
The automotive program at ECC offers specialized certificates to enhance skills in various areas of automotive repair. Students can earn certificates in areas such as Automotive Electrical Specialist, Brake and Suspension Specialist, and Engine Mechanical Repair Specialist. Other options include Engine Performance Specialist, Transmission and Drivetrain Specialist, and Auto Heating and Air Conditioning Specialist. Each certificate focuses on specific automotive systems, offering hands-on experience to develop expertise. These specialized certificates prepare students for diverse careers in automotive maintenance and repair.
What is the Job Outlook in the Automotive Industry?
The U.S. Department of Labor Statistics estimates that automotive service technicians and mechanics are projected to show little to no change from 2020 to 2030. On average, there are an estimated 69,000 job openings for automotive service technicians and mechanics over the next decade.
It's unsure what future employment looks like in the automotive industry, but there's been a significant increase in the production of electric vehicles. This may limit the demand for automotive technicians and mechanics because electric vehicles require less maintenance. Check out the Career Coach site to learn about related professions and compensation.
Learn more about the Automotive department at ECC!
Earning an Associate Degree at Elgin Community College can set your career in motion.
Video Overview
An overview of Elgin Community College's automotive program. This program provides training in all phases of automotive maintenance work for all types of vehicles.
Are you unemployed or looking for a better career?
ECC is partnering with Kane County WIOA to offer free career training for in-demand jobs. Learn more and see if you qualify.
Contact
Admissions & Recruitment
Building B, Room B110
847-214-7385
Fax: 847-608-5458
admissions@elgin.edu
Hours
Monday through Thursday: 7:30 am to 7 pm
Fridays: Closed
*Bilingual Admissions Coordinator: 847-214-7689
Contact
Career and Technical Education Programs
Building O, Room O125
847-214-7900