Automotive Technology Certificate

Besides helping you jump right into the workforce, the Automotive Technology certificate program can also serve as a stepping stone to an associate degree in automotive technology for career advancement. Learn in our state-of-the-art auto shop, and start your career today.

Why Go to Auto Mechanic School?

The automotive service and repair field is currently in need of qualified mechanics and technicians. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are 73,200 jobs available in the field across the country

By completing the training at San Juan College, you are well-prepared to sit for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification exams. You gain tangible skills such as:

• Diagnosing and troubleshooting malfunctioning vehicles
• Performing maintenance, repairs, and overhauls safely
• Working with automotive tools and equipment
• Understanding electrical diagrams and repair manuals

Why Choose San Juan College's Automotive Certificate Program?

On-the-Job Training

The Automotive Technology Certificate is designed to enhance your practical skills in auto repairs and ready you to apply those skills in your current or future job. Thanks to SJC's industry partnerships with Chrysler, Ford, GM, and Toyota, you will be able to work on cars with industry-standard tools and equipment donated by our partners.

If you plan to enroll in the Automotive Technology Certificate program, you will have the chance to join the Apprenticeship Program to gain hands-on training while working at a designated local service facility. This is a paying job perfect for an aspiring technician who wants to acquire real-world experience. The program may lead to full-time employment in the automotive field with a local shop.

ASE-Certified Automotive Training Program

San Juan College's certificate programs are certified by Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Our automotive technology classes teach the required content ASE specifies to help you pass the ASE Certification tests, including Engine Repair, Automatic Transmissions, Manual Transmissions, Steering and Suspension, Brakes, Electrical Systems, Heating and Air Conditioning, and Engine Performance.

Affordable Certificate Program

Because of SJC's low tuition rates, our automotive program is an excellent investment for your career. Scholarship opportunities are also available to lower your cost, including the National Technical Honor Society, Harbor Freight, NAPA, Automotive Aftermarket Student Scholarships, the Charlie C. Turman Scholarship Program, and many more.

You can also discover to get your certificate tuition-free through the New Mexico Opportunity and Lottery Scholarships

What Will You Learn in the Automotive Technology Certificate Program?

SJC's Automotive Technology Certificate takes a year and a half to complete. The certificate reflects the ASE requirements covering core topics in:

• Automatic and manual transmissions
• Brakes
• Heating and air conditioning
• Engine repair and performance
• Electrical systems
• Portfolios
• Safety (S/P2 Certification)
• Steering and suspension

Automotive Technology Certificate Curriculum

San Juan College Automotive Shop

Careers and Outcomes

Upon completing the Automotive Technology Certificate, you are well-prepared to work in various settings from repair shops to dealerships. The average salary for automotive mechanics or technicians is $47,000 annually. As you gain more skills and experience, you can advance and become a master technician who can make more than six figures.

San Juan College's automotive technology graduates have successfully found employment at local repair shops, quick service facilities, and construction sites. Some employers include:

• Advantage Dodge
• AutoMax
• Hi-Country Buick-GMC-Farmington
• Hi-Country Chevrolet-Aztec
• Melloy Honda
• O'Reilly Auto Parts
• Uncle Bob’s Auto and Truck Repair
• Webb Chevrolet

ASE-Accredited Program in New Mexico

SJC's Automotive Technology programs are accredited by the Automotive Service Excellence Education Foundation The ASE Education Foundation evaluates and accredits entry-level automotive technology education programs against standards developed by the automotive service industry. It also develops career-readiness education for students, which fuses local partnerships, rigorous standard-based education, workplace experience, and mentorship together.