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Auto Service Technology

AUTO SERVICE TECHNOLOGY

INSTRUCTOR:
MATT RICHARDSON

A mechanic works on a car engine with the hood open in a garage.

Mr. Richardson has worked in the Automotive field since 2004 and is an ASE Master Technician, as well as a Certified Safety Inspector. He was 100% GM-trained while being a Team Leader and Head Technician at Jim Price Chevrolet. When asked why he loves what he does, Mr. Richardson says, “This is one of the only trades that is constantly changing; nothing stays the same. You are always learning something new. When I worked in the industry, I enjoyed having students from CATEC come to Price Chevy. Being able to train them while they were on a job shadow or apprenticeship was a great opportunity.”

 

INSTRUCTOR:
BRUCE VAN DYKE

A man smiles while standing in a garage, next to a toolbox.

Mr. Van Dyke is from Southwest VA. He received his first automotive industry credentials in high school. Mr. Van Dyke received professional training through Dodge and is an ASE certified technician. He is a proud parent of 5 sons and loves coaching football. He loves "helping kids find their way."

Two students in mechanic uniforms examine the underside of a car.

CATEC's two-year Automotive Service Technology program is an Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)- and National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF)-accredited program. Students learn all aspects of automotive repair, safety, and customer service by concentrating on the eight automotive areas needed to become an ASE-certified master technician. Students extensively practice shop and personal safety. They identify and demonstrate usage of tools and equipment, research vehicle and service information and history, and prepare vehicles for service and for the customer. Students develop skills in inspecting engine assembly, repair, and performance. They study lubrication, cooling systems, transmissions, brakes, and electrical systems. Students who successfully complete this program will be prepared to take and pass ASE exams and will be prepared for post-secondary education opportunities.

Automotive Service Technology Video

CREDIT, CERTIFICATIONS, COURSE INFORMATION, AND PATHWAYS

  • Students receive up to 3 high school elective credits each year for successful completion of the program. Passage of the certification exam will award the student 2 student-verified elective credits, one of which can be substituted for a verified credit in either science or history.

  • ASE student certification exams in the following areas:

    • Suspension and Steering

    • Brakes

    • Electrical/Electronic Systems

    • Engine Performance

    • Engine Repair

    • Automatic Transmission/Transaxle

    • Manual Drive Train and Axles

    • Heating and Air Conditioning

    • Maintenance and Light Repair

    • Automobile Service Technology

    S/P2

    Virginia State Inspection License

    Virginia Workplace Readiness Skills Assessment

  • The CATEC Automotive Service Technology program has articulation agreements with University of Northwestern Ohio (UNOH), Universal Technical Institute (UTI) and Nashville Auto Diesel College (NADC).

    Class: Auto Service Technology I

    State Code: 8506

    Duration: 1 year

    Grade(s): 10-12

    Credential(s): ASE certifications, S/P2 certifications, Virginia State Inspection License

    Time(s): AM only

    Class: Auto Service Technology II

    State Code: 8507

    Duration: 1 year

    Grade(s): 10-12

    Credential(s): ASE certifications, S/P2 certifications,

    Time(s): PM only

    • Career Opportunity: Auto Service Technician

    • Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul automotive vehicles, including trucks, buses, and other vehicles. Repair any part on the vehicle. 

    • National Wage Average: $50,000

    • Virginia Wage Average: $48,000

    • Projected Job Growth in Virginia: 6%

    • Nationally, 70,000 jobs increase each year for next 10 years