Gear up for an exciting program

If you’re crazy about cars and trucks, look no further than our Auto Tech program. Prepare for a career in the auto industry in this nationally certified program taught by ASE-certified instructors. Learn about the eight areas of automotive repair in our expansive auto bays and professionally-stocked tool crib as you:

  • Work on real customer and donated vehicles
  • Use the latest technology to test and diagnose a wide variety of issues
  • Explore electrical theory and how automotive electrical systems work
  • Align and repair tires
  • Explore engine repair and cooling systems
  • Discover driveline systems
  • Work on heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems
  • Create reports and document repairs in professional software

Tools & Equipment

Here are some of the tools that you'll learn to use in this course:

  • Auto/Car Lift
  • Car Battery Charger
  • Code Readers/Scanners
  • Computerized Parts Catalog
  • Electronic Systems
  • Fuel Gauges
  • Rachets/Sockets
  • Tire Balancer
  • Tire Inflator/Air Compressor
  • Wrenches

Available Certifications

Through this program, you’ll be prepared to earn certifications in:

  • ASE Student Certification
  • State of Michigan Mechanics Certification

Potential College Credit

Up to 13 free college credits available*

The number of possible credits vary by college. 

*Students must meet minimum requirements.

Possible Career Options & Earning Potential

The range of pay for professionals in Automotive Technology careers covers a broad range and depends upon many factors. Below are annual salary ranges for a few roles this program may lead you into.

With a HS diploma (some certification could be required):

  • Electronic Equipment Installer/Repairer (Motor Vehicles)
    Entry Level: $36,950 | Median: $48,070 | High End: $56,560
  • Automotive Service Technician/Mechanic
    Entry Level: $36,110 | Median: $54,120 | High End: $79,060
  • Engine (Machine) Assembler
    Entry Level: $36,750 | Median: $60,950 | High End: $77,750

With additional college and/or advanced certifications:

  • Appraiser of Personal/Business Property
    Entry Level: $38,920 | Median: $64,270 | High End: $98,150
  • Automotive Engineer (Lab) Tech
    Entry Level: $46,110 | Median: $68,170 | High End: $98,980
  • First-Line Supervisor of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers
    Entry Level: $46,490 | Median: $77,810 | High End: $121,840
  • Mechanical (Automotive) Engineer
    Entry Level: $76,310 | Median: $104,890 | High End: $159,840

* Note: Job titles and salary data are taken directly from O*Net (as of 2026).

Program Location(s)

Classes take place at:

Kent Career Tech Center

Brian Jeffs ASE Master Certified Technician
Chris Yetzke 25 years of experience in the auto industry
Jason Matthysse Joined KCTC in August 2026
Joseph Plowman Covers all KCTC automotive classes
Joseph R. Plowman More than five years of experience working in the auto industry.
Marshall Lystra ASE Certified Technician
Michael Kiekover 30 years of experience in the auto industry
Mike Pekrul ASE Master Certified Technician
Nathan Vannest Ford Sr. Master Technician & Jaguar & Land Rover Silver Certified Technician
Nick Swanson Parts & Service Aide
Previous Next PausePlay Gallery Permalink

Related Programs

Applied Construction
Automotive Collision
Automotive Technology
Aviation
Carpentry at WMCI
Diesel Technology
Electrical at WMCI
Engineering
HVACR
Mechatronics
Precision Machining
Welding
Wood Tech at Next Step