Classes

Course Info

Length
12 Months (1050 Clock Hours)

Schedule
Monday 8 am-1 pm; Tuesday-Friday 8 am-2 pm 
(Summer schedule) Monday- Thursday 8 am - 2:45 pm

Automotive Service Technology 1 Standards
CASAS (Reading and Math) Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE) Test Scores: 239 in Reading 584 Language and 236 in Math OR meet TABE exemption (refer to Admissions and Testing)  

This program is approved by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation.

2020-2021 Curriculum Framework

Program Requirements
Students must be at least 18 and have a valid Florida driver's license.

Program Description
The Automotive Services Technology 1 (1050hrs) program prepares students entry-level automotive technicians who can analyze, repair and maintain high-tech automobiles to manufacturer's specifications.

Automotive Technology 1 uses a computer managed laboratory and actual hands-on work to train the automotive technicians of the future. The course of study takes students through brakes, suspension and steering, engine repair,  and electrical systems.
Book and Supply Information   

For the most current list of books and supplies, please contact the Student Services Office, Financial Aid Office or our Bookstore. 

Employment/Career Opportunities
Career opportunities include technician, service writer, service manager and shop owner.

Salaries
Salaries for graduates range from $12.55-$23.46 per hour. The average salary for an experienced technician is about $45-50,000. Potential yearly earnings can be as high as $75,000+.
Source:  Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation, Labor Market Statistics

NOTE: A history of felony convictions, substance abuse or a poor driving record will adversely affect your ability to gain employment in this field. We encourage you to consider your personal history when making appropriate career choices.

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific math skills are needed in this field?
Addition, subtraction, multiplication, division of whole numbers, fractions, and decimals are needed in this field.

What specific personal characteristics make for good mechanics?
In today's world good mechanics are called 'Auto Technicians'. They must be prepared to work closely with managers and customers and present themselves as clean, well dressed technicians who take pride in their work.

What does it mean to be ASE Certified and how important is it?
ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) is a nationally recognized technician certification. It certifies one's competence in the knowledge of various automobile areas. ASE certifications can greatly influence employment opportunities and/or salary level.

Which parts of the program are more difficult than others?
Difficulty varies with the individual; most students find that their strong points differ from the strong points of their classmates. Many students specialize in particular repair areas. The better technicians always have an understanding of all repair areas. Examples of the more difficult knowledge areas are Electrical Systems and Engine Performance. 

Is there any computer training in the program?
Yes, due to the complexity of today's automobile, each course has automobile computer training. The 'computer literacy' component of the program prepares students for the necessary skills to use today's diagnostic equipment and information related to service and repair.

What are the local employment opportunities for auto technicians within the next 2 - 3 years?
Hillsborough County registered more than 13,000 additional cars last year. The demand for more repair technicians, to cover the additional cars, has been falling far short. This, of course, means job security and higher wages. Our school receives a tremendous number of job offerings. We could double the number of graduates and still not be able to fill every position in the local area.

What are my potential earnings when I become ASE certified?
Earnings depend on individual skill, certifications, and place of employment. Entry level salaries are usually $11.20-$21.70 per hour. The average yearly salary for an experienced technician is about $45-50,000. Potential yearly earnings can be as high as $75,000+.

What career opportunities are available in this field?
Automotive service technicians can move into other job areas such as service advisor, service manager, or general manager. Most companies prefer to promote technicians, who have established records in their firm, to these positions.

Where have graduates found employment?

Erwin Automotive students have found employment to a large extent at local automobile dealerships and nationally recognized auto repair franchises, but some prefer a smaller independent, mom and pop type of facility. All major vehicle brands, tire and auto centers and independent repair shops have Erwin graduates working on their service teams. With the recommendation of their instructors, students have been placed with Reeves Imports, Autoway Dealerships, Courtesy Dealerships, Carmax, Stadium, Ferman, Jerry Ulm, Bill Currie, Parks, Kuhn, and Tampa Honda and Morgan Auto Group  just to name some of our best placements. Tire and Auto centers such as Sears, Pep Boys, Goodyear, Firestone, Tire Kingdom, and Olin Mott also employ many of our former students. The fact is any Erwin automotive student who completes our program and wants a job has no problem finding satisfying employment.

Is job placement available upon graduation?
Advisory committee representatives and teachers provide students with guidance and recommendations.

How can I learn more about this career field?
Click here for more information 

For questions regarding the program please contact:  elizabeth2.martinez@hcps.net