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?
If you’re interested in automotive repair and technology, Elgin Community College’s (ECC) Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Automotive Technology provides the hands-on training you need to launch your career as an automotive technician or specialist.
This comprehensive program teaches you how to inspect, maintain, and repair a wide range of vehicles. You’ll study the function, construction, and operation of major automotive systems, including:
- Fuel and ignition systems
- Transmissions and drivetrains
- Brakes and suspensions
- Electrical and electronic systems
Students gain valuable experience using diagnostic tools and troubleshooting techniques, as well as learning essential shop safety procedures. The AAS program prepares you for ASE certification and entry-level positions in automotive service, repair, and diagnostics.
Automotive Certificates at ECC
ECC’s Automotive Technology program also offers several specialized automotive repair certificates designed to build targeted skills for specific systems and components.
You can earn certificates in:
- Automotive Electrical Specialist
- Brake and Suspension Specialist
- Engine Mechanical Repair Specialist
- Engine Performance Specialist
- Transmission and Drivetrain Specialist
- Auto Heating and Air Conditioning Specialist
Each certificate offers hands-on learning in a professional shop environment, helping you develop the skills and knowledge employers look for. Whether starting your career or upgrading your expertise, ECC’s automotive certificates can help you advance in the fast-changing automotive maintenance and technology world.
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.
The industry is evolving as electric vehicles (EVs) become more common. Because EVs require less routine maintenance, the demand for traditional automotive technicians may change—but opportunities are growing for professionals who understand electric and hybrid vehicle systems.
To explore career paths, salary ranges, and job opportunities related to automotive technology, visit ECC's Career Coach site to learn about related professions and compensation.
Blaze your own path forward with ECC.
Earn your associate degree or certificate and launch your career today.
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: 8 am to 7 pm
Fridays: 8 am to 4 pm
*Bilingual Admissions Coordinator: 847-214-7689
Contact
Career and Technical Education Programs
Building O, Room O125
847-214-7900
mtcinquiries@elgin.edu