Program Information
The Auto Technology Program focuses on preparing students to:
- take and pass the National Institute of Auto Service Excellence Test
- enter the field of work as an advanced apprentice technician
- continue their education at the college level.
Students have the opportunity to receive hands-on training working in the service area. The most up-to-date equipment along with newer donated vehicles are available for students to work on.
Due to the technical nature of the field of Auto Technology and the amount of knowledge required to enter the field, this is considered a two-year program.
|
Special Class Features and Certifications
Students attending the Auto Technology program have the opportunity to receive several highly recognized certifications.
|
|
|
The State of Michigan Certification tests are offered to students attending the Auto Technology Program. |
|
|
The Tuscola Technology Center Automotive Technology program is recognized and certified by the National Automotive Technician Education Foundation. This is a voluntary certification to insure quality automotive education.
Auto Service Excellence Certification is offered to students at the Tuscola Technology Center. Six ASE areas of certification will be covered. Upon completion of the first year, a student will be ready to take at least three of the eight certification tests. Upon completion of the second year students are ready to take three or more of the certification tests. Students will have the opportunity to take all eight certification tests.
|
|
|
TIA (Tire Industry Association) is the tire industry's largest association. This certification program includes the latest updates from industry leaders. Students will be trained in tire and wheel terminology, service, wheel assembly balancing, and radial tire repair. Under supervision students take the certification test and immediately mail to TIA. When a student passes, they become certified. The student will then receive a patch and a certificate from the Association. |
|
|
ALLDATA Software Certification is offered to all students. ALLDATA is an electronic automotive information system with state of the art service information.
|
|
|
|
Student Organizations & Competitions
Students have the opportunity to become members of SkillsUSA. Through competitions students have the opportunity to learn leadership skills, earn recognition and college scholarships.
Various other competitions students compete in include MITES (Michigan Industrial Technology Education Society), and Delta Skill Day.
To learn more visit Student Organizations.
|
| Career Pathways |
|
|
There are many different professional careers available to students after successful completion of training in the Auto Technology Program. Students may find entry-level positions in an auto dealership, auto repair shop, auto machine shop, parts person, service manager, salesperson, or manager trainee.
Many colleges and trade schools offer further training toward more advanced careers in Auto Technology. Students may also consider entering a branch of the military for vehicle maintenance.
|
|
|
College Credit and Articulation
One way the Tuscola Technology Center is able to help students make the successful transition from high school to college is by offering articulated college credit. The technical skills and knowledge a student learns can save tuition fees, shorten the time a student spends in college and reduces the duplication of courses at the college level. To receive articulated credit a student needs good grades, good attendance and be able to demonstrate that they have the maturity to bypass the college level courses.
Students have the opportunity to earn college credit with several Michigan Colleges. Colleges participating in the articulation include: Ferris State University, Universal Technical Institute, Northwestern Auto Diesel (Lima, OH), Delta College, and Wyoming Technical Institute.
|
Colleges to Continue Auto Technology
- Alpena Community College
- Central Michigan University
- Delta College
- Ferris State University
- Kettering University
- Henry Ford Community College
- Kirtland Community College
- Lansing Community University
- Lawrence Technological Institute
- Michigan State University
- Mott Community College
- Northern Michigan University
- Northwood University
- Oakland Community College
- Saginaw Valley State University
- University of Michigan
- Washtenaw Community College
- Western Michigan University
|
Work Placement Opportunities
Work experience and internships in area businesses are a highlight of this program. Second year students are given an opportunity to complete co-op experiences. Students have the opportunity to have co-op experiences with such businesses as: Pat Curtis Chevrolet, Bell-Wasik Pontiac-GMC-Buick, Moore Motors Sales, Reese Muffler and Brakes and Curtis Chrysler.
|
Advisory Committees
The Tuscola Technology Center is fortunate to have community and business leaders involved in the success of our students.
The committee members are professionals in business and industry as well as counselors and teachers from Tuscola County. Their input is vital in assuring that our students receive industry standard instruction in their field of study. Along with attending several meetings per year, the advisory committee evaluates the students to determine their business readiness.
|