Automotive Technology

Do you like taking things apart to see how they work? Do you like mechanical things like motors and engines? Make money while enjoying what you do! The Automotive Technology Program at SUN Technical Institute will teach you what you need to know to diagnose and repair vehicles so you can make a great living doing something you love to do!

In the Automotive Technology course at SUN Tech, you are given the opportunity to learn the necessary skills and competencies to maintain, diagnose and repair the advanced systems on modern automobiles. You can use common hand tools as well as power tools such as impact wrenches, grinders, drills, tire machines and automotive lifts. You will also be using state-of-the-art equipment such as electronic engine analyzers, oscilloscopes, scan tools and internet-based information systems.

The Automotive Technology program consists of daily theory lessons which teach the skills needed to complete nearly 350 hands-on exercises involving real cars and light trucks. Both follow NATEF guidelines and expose you to most of the operating systems on modern automobiles. Areas covered include electrical systems, steering and suspension, braking systems, engine repair, computerized powertrain control, and air conditioning.

Post-Secondary Opportunities

The work habits developed through classroom, hands-on, and computer-based exercises in the Auto Technology program, leave students well prepared for continued higher education. Students can receive advanced placement at two colleges within Pennsylvania: The Pennsylvania College of Technology in Williamsport and Harrisburg Area Community College. Some recent graduates have chosen to attend other colleges such as: Advanced Technical Institute in Virginia Beach, VA; Wyoming Technical Institute in Laramie, WY; Vale Technical Institute in Blairsville, PA; and Universal Technical Institute/ Motorcycle and Marine Institute with multiple campuses.

Auto Technology graduates may also receive further training from employers, such as dealership training programs or military technical schools.

Certifications

You will have the opportunity to obtain a PA State Inspection License, Air Conditioning Certification, SP/2 Safety Certification, Valvoline Oil Certification, and NATEF Certification.  The certifications and skills learned allow you to enter the automotive repair industry with skills and certification to back up those skills.

Employment

Students in the Auto Technology program have the opportunity to become involved in cooperative education. In the months of March, April, and May, students meeting the requirements may work for a local automotive repair facility during school hours. During this time, students will earn school credit as well as receive “real-world” experience in the auto repair trade. In addition, a student involved in cooperative education will be paid for his or her time worked by the employer.

Some students in this program stay employed with the employer after graduation. Others may use the experience on a resume after graduation from higher education. In either case, this type of experience is extremely valuable to the student and future employers.

Career Opportunities for successful graduates of the Auto Technology program include:

  • Technicians
  • Service Writers
  • Service Management
  • Pre-Delivery Prep
  • Brake & Suspension Techs
  • Alignment Techs
  • Maintenance Mechanics
  • Parts Counter People
  • Parts Re-Builders
  • Warranty Clerk
  • Garage Owner/Operator
  • Drivability Tech and many more

Program of Study

Automotive Technology is a SOAR approved program of study. This means that successful completion of this program earns you college credits that can be transferred to participating state colleges and universities.

Download Program of Study

Program Uniform

This program requires specific program attire. Information will be provided from the instructor on the uniform requirements.