Carl Sandburg College offers two distinct Automotive Repair programs to fill the needs of students with diverse educational or career goals ranging from developing specialized skills to providing a complete two-year educational program.

Associate in Applied Science
This two-year Associate in Applied Science degree program provides students with the basic skills to gain employment in automotive dealerships, automotive technology centers, and independent service centers. In addition to the automotive technology courses, this program includes study in other subjects such as accounting and communications. Engine Performance Certificate

This one-year Certificate program is tailored for the student interested in designing and building high performance engines. It is ideal for students interested in becoming employed in the motorsport field or for the weekend racing enthusiast.

Nature of the Work
The work of automotive service technicians and mechanics has evolved from simply mechanical to high technology. Technicians must have an increasingly broad base of knowledge about how vehicles’ complex electronic components work and interact, as well as the ability to work with electronic diagnostic equipment and computer- based technical reference materials. Automotive service technicians and mechanics use these high tech skills to inspect, maintain, and repair vehicles. The ability to diagnose the source of a problem quickly and accurately requires good reasoning ability and a thorough knowledge of automobiles. Many technicians consider diagnosing hard to find troubles one of their most challenging and satisfying duties.

Working Conditions
Almost half of automotive service technicians work a standard 40-hour week, but about one third work over 40 hours per week. Many of those working over 40- hour weeks are self-employed technicians. Some shops offer evening and weekend service to meet the needs of their customers. Generally, service technicians work indoors in well ventilated and lighted repair shops.

Employment
Job opportunities for those individuals who complete automotive training programs are expected to be very good. Persons with good diagnostic and problem-solving skills should have the best opportunity. For well-prepared people with a technical background, automotive service technicians careers offer an excellent opportunity for good pay and secure employment. To learn more about the admission requirements and the application process for this program, call (309) 341-5229.

Degree/Certificate:
Automotive Technology (Auto Mechanics)Certificate