Current Program

The Automotive and Related Technology curriculum offers training that is regularly upgraded to keep pace with the constant change in automotive design and manufacture. Students learn to understand, diagnose, troubleshoot and repair problems occurring in automotive ABS brake systems, electrical/electronic systems, engine performance, drivability, suspension and steering, automatic and manual transmissions, transaxles, engine repair, heating and air conditioning. Students enroll in Automotive and Related Technology courses for retraining and upgrading job skills, to obtain a degree or certificate, and to meet transfer requirements. Changes in the program have occurred in recent years in response to changes in the surrounding population and environment, economic conditions, students' basic skills levels, college budget conditions, student interests, technology and the increasing use of technology, and facility needs.

Degrees and Certificates - An Associate in Science degree and Certificates of Completion are offered in Automotive and Related Technology.

Personnel - At this time eight full-time and four part-time faculty are employed in the department; seven full-time classified staff, one part-time classified staff, one short-term classified employee and one student employee help support this department as well as Automotive Collision Repair and Diesel and Related Technology.

Teaching Methodologies - Teaching methods used most often include lecture, lecture/lab, lecture/demonstration and lab. Some self-paced, service learning and computerized instruction is used at this time as well.

Technology - No online courses or distance education technologies are in use.

Equipment - Service/maintenance contracts are needed for all equipment to eliminate downtime. Diagnostic equipment and alignment equipment need replacement immediately. All hoists, lifts, drop cords with drop lights, air lines and water lines, and tools that are obsolete need to be replaced. A complete security system is needed immediately, as is a hazardous waste pick-up for tires, oil, brake and transmission fluids, and power steering fluids. A safety check of all lifts, air and electrical equipment is also needed.

Facilities - The location and size of facilities, which were constructed 25-30 years ago, is adequate at this time, although the layout of the space is no longer adequate for proper instruction. Rooms need paint and regular maintenance. All student wooden tables and chairs need to be replaced with steel.

Future Program

The program will need to adapt to changing conditions in the future including new curriculum, changes in technology and teaching methods, student academic preparation, and college facilities and recruitment strategies. Enrollment in the program is expected to keep pace with overall college enrollment growth in both the mid term and the long term. See Program Projections.

Degrees and Certificates - No additional degrees or certificates are planned at this time.

Personnel - See Projected Faculty and Staff Needs.

Teaching Methodologies - More use of service based learning should be encouraged.

Technology - Because the program is hands-on, use of alternative delivery systems will be minimal, with no online or distance education technologies needed.

Equipment - Within five years the following items needs to be replaced: diagnostic equipment, alignment racks, automotive lifts, computers, all air, water and electrical hose reels, and all hand tools. Equipment that should be purchased new includes alignment equipment, engine machining equipment, computer updates, and hand tools. Needed office equipment includes computers, a copier, a fax machine, and a scantron.

Facilities - An electronic classroom and conference room is needed. All student wooden tables and chairs need to be replaced with steel. Classrooms need white boards and LCD projectors. Storage areas and tool rooms are needed. Labs need air, electrical and water hose reels. All facilities need new paint and continuous maintenance.

Staff Development - Staff Development topics should include PowerPoint presentations, Internet communications and website design. Faculty need release time to attend industry training classes.