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Automotive Technology
The Automotive Technology program at Lake Area Tech prepares you to step into today’s shops with confidence. You’ll build a strong technical foundation while gaining hands-on experience with the diagnostic tools and systems used across modern vehicles.
You’ll spend the majority of your time in a full-scale automotive shop, working on cars, trucks, and SUVs while running diagnostics, identifying issues, and completing repairs. Training includes exposure to gas, diesel, hybrid, and electric vehicles, along with the latest alignment, balancing, and service equipment used in the field.
The Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Education Foundation certifies the program, and ASE-certified instructors prepare you with training that meets current industry standards. After graduation, you can begin a career as a service technician, shop manager or specialist, and you can expand your skills into diesel through additional coursework.
Automotive Technology has both fall and spring start options.
If you plan to continue your education, tools like Transferology can help you understand how your coursework applies toward a four-year degree and explore your next steps.
Light Duty Diesel Option
Second year Automotive Technology students can pursue the Light Duty Diesel Option. These courses teach working on passenger vehicles with a diesel drivetrain. Students will learn break systems, steering, suspension, and drivetrain diagnostics, heating and air conditioning, and more.
Diesel Option for Automotive Technology Grads
Lake Area Tech Auto graduates who are interested in earning an AAS in Diesel Technology are eligible to transfer some previously completed courses. During the 18-month program, students will choose between the Diesel Truck or Tractor option. Please see the Diesel Technology Option for Automotive grads course outline link below to view the program coursework.
Automotive Technology Program Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate proficiency in entry-level tasks in Automotive Technology within an appropriate time period.
- Complete a customer work order.
- Access technical information.
- Demonstrate environmental responsibility.
recognized by:
This program has been awarded ASE Master Certification. This is the highest level of achievement recognized by the National College for Automotive Service Excellence.
Articulation agreements:
Automotive Technology Careers
Below are several careers you could pursue with an Automotive Technology degree. Visit our job board to see job opportunities in the Automotive Technology sector.
Automotive Service Technician
Graduates of the Automotive Technology program can pursue careers as Automotive Service Technicians, diagnosing, maintaining, and repairing today's increasingly sophisticated vehicles. In this role, you'll work with advanced diagnostic equipment, perform preventative maintenance, and troubleshoot mechanical and electrical systems to keep vehicles operating safely and efficiently. It's an excellent career path for individuals who enjoy problem-solving, technology, and hands-on work.
Where you might work:
• Automotive dealerships
• Independent repair shops
• Fleet maintenance facilities
• Vehicle service centers
• Government and municipal fleets
Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Technician
As a Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Technician, you'll work with the technologies shaping the future of transportation. Graduates can expect to diagnose, maintain, and repair hybrid and electric vehicle systems while supporting the growing demand for alternative fuel and electrified vehicles. This career combines traditional automotive knowledge with emerging technologies.
Where you might work:
• Automotive dealerships
• EV service centers
• Fleet operations
• Manufacturer service facilities
• Specialty electric vehicle shops
Transmission and Drivetrain Specialist
Transmission and Drivetrain Technicians specialize in the systems that transfer power from the engine to the wheels. In this role, you'll diagnose, repair, rebuild, and maintain transmissions, differentials, and related components while helping ensure reliable vehicle performance. This specialty offers opportunities to develop highly sought-after technical expertise.
Where you might work:
• Transmission repair facilities
• Automotive dealerships
• Specialty drivetrain shops
• Fleet maintenance operations
• Vehicle service centers
Shop Foreman or Service Manager
Experienced graduates may advance into leadership roles such as Shop Foreman or Service Manager, overseeing technicians, coordinating workflow, supporting customer service efforts, and helping ensure efficient shop operations. This career path combines technical expertise with leadership and business management skills.
Where you might work:
• Automotive dealerships
• Independent repair facilities
• Fleet maintenance organizations
• Multi-location service centers
• Automotive service businesses
Every class, every semester. Find the right pathway to achieve your degree on your timing.
Getting all of this straight can be tough – but you're not alone. Our representatives are here to help.
"I am a very "hands-on" learner and my classes at Lake Area Tech taught me in that manner."
Estimated Cost
At Lake Area Tech, there are no surprises. View expected expenses below, so you can plan ahead for a successful year.
| Tuition | $9,514 |
| State Fees | $3,196 |
| Departmental Fee | $3,508 |
| Campus Support Fee | $2,202 |
| Uniform Fee | $840 |
| Tools | $7,900 |
| Books | $1,400 |
| Laptop (What laptop should I get?) | $1,190 |
| Total Estimated Program Cost: | $29,750 |
We know that college is a significant investment in your future. Our goal is to offer you the most transparent look at potential costs associated with your degree.
Note that other indirect costs, such as housing, food, transportation, personal and other miscellaneous costs will vary for each student’s situation, and are not included in this estimate. You can find these estimates and a semester breakdown in the PDF cost breakdown worksheet.
We strive to offer a variety of financial aid options, as well as helpful resources regarding outside financial aid options.
Automotive Technology FAQs
Get the details you need to decide if this program is the right fit for you.
What skills will I learn in the Automotive Technology degree program?
In Lake Area Technical College’s Automotive Technology degree program, you will gain hands-on skills in all major areas of automotive repair and diagnostics. Students learn engine repair, brake systems, steering and suspension, electrical and electronic systems, heating and air conditioning, and driveline service. The program also emphasizes the use of modern diagnostic scan tools, precision measuring instruments, torque tools, and industry-standard safety procedures. By graduation, you’ll be able to diagnose real-world vehicle problems and perform professional-level repairs, preparing you for entry-level automotive technician careers.
How long does it take to complete the Automotive Technology degree?
The Automotive Technology program at Lake Area Technical College takes two years to complete and leads to an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree. This full-time program is designed to efficiently prepare students for immediate employment in the automotive industry while building a strong technical foundation.
What hands-on training is included in the Automotive Technology program?
Students receive extensive hands-on training in modern automotive labs and shops. You’ll spend many hours completing job sheets that simulate real-world repair orders, working on actual vehicles, using professional tools, and performing diagnostics under instructor supervision. This lab-based approach ensures you graduate with real experience, not just classroom knowledge.
Is the Automotive Technology program good for students with no prior mechanic experience?
Yes. Lake Area Tech’s Automotive Technology program is designed for both beginners and those with prior experience. Students start by learning the fundamentals of automotive systems and repair before progressing to advanced diagnostics and complex repairs. No previous mechanic experience is required to succeed in the program.
What careers can I pursue with an Automotive Technology degree?
Graduates of the Automotive Technology program can pursue a variety of in-demand careers, including automotive technician, maintenance technician, light diesel technician, service technician, and fleet maintenance technician. Many graduates find employment with automotive dealerships, independent repair shops, fleet service companies, and service centers across the region.
Does Lake Area Tech help Automotive Technology graduates find jobs?
Yes. Lake Area Technical College has strong connections with dealerships and independent automotive repair shops. Employers regularly contact the program looking for trained technicians, and many students receive job offers before or shortly after graduation. Career placement support is built into the program experience.
What certifications can I prepare for in the Automotive Technology program?
Students prepare for industry-recognized skills and certifications related to precision measuring instruments, scan tool operation, and proper torque wrench use. These foundational certifications support career readiness and help graduates stand out to employers in the automotive industry.
Are scholarships available for the Automotive Technology program?
Yes. Lake Area Technical College offers scholarships and financial aid opportunities for eligible Automotive Technology students. Additional funding options may include grants, workforce training assistance, and employer-sponsored support.
What types of vehicles and equipment do students train on?
Students train on a wide range of vehicles, including all makes and models of gasoline and light diesel vehicles. This broad exposure ensures graduates are prepared to work in diverse automotive environments and adapt to changing technology in the field.
Is Lake Area Tech a good choice for learning automotive repair and diagnostics?
Yes. Lake Area Technical College is an excellent choice for learning automotive repair and diagnostics because the program combines strong technical theory with extensive hands-on lab experience. Over the two-year degree, students cover all eight major areas of automotive repair, ensuring comprehensive training that meets industry standards and employer expectations.
Automotive Technology Staff
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