Automotive Technology

The Automotive Service Technology Program at Yakima Valley Community College is designed to provide the training to prepare students for employment in the dynamic high-tech automotive repair industry. Technological advances in today’s automobiles require a highly skilled automotive repair technician. The YVCC AST program offers training in the different areas of automotive repair with emphasis on the diagnosis and repair of the high-tech electronic, emission controls, and computer systems used in the modern automobile.

The Automotive Service Technology Program requires a minimum of two years to complete. Enrollment is open to those who qualify at the beginning of fall, winter, and spring quarters of each academic year. An Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree in Automotive Service Technology is awarded upon the successful completion of the program. Career opportunities in the automotive repair industry are better than ever. There is a shortage of qualified automotive technicians. Competent, highly trained, and motivated Automotive Service Technology students are in demand.

The Yakima Valley Community College Automotive Service Technology program has been evaluated by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) and is certified as a National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Master Training Program. In addition, all instructors are ASE certified in the area in which they teach.

Since our goal is to have all graduates employed upon completion, students will need all necessary tools and equipment as well as skills to enter the work force. Students are required to provide their own tools, coveralls and personal safety equipment. YVCC provides all necessary materials to complete lab tasks and written assignments. Diagnostic and electronic test equipment, computers and other machinery provided in the lab is the same as that found in industry and will help students in their transition from school to work.

The AST curriculum is structured to help all students reach their potential. Classes teach each component and system in easy to understand modules. Each module has a lecture and lab component that help students understand all phases of the system. Theory, operation and design are discussed in lecture as well as practical troubleshooting. Students then move on to the lab for practical hands-on experience in troubleshooting and repairs of systems learned.

Students are responsible for meeting deadlines and work expectations. All students "punch" in and out on a time clock for attendance and customer service work. Since live work, as well as mock-ups, is an integral part of the curriculum, professionalism is an important part of the course work. Students are expected to follow a Code of Ethics representative of industry standards and work towards competency in all areas of instruction.

For further information, please call Ben Christie, Program Coordinator at (509) 574-6869.