Automotive Technology Program
You will always be in demand
You know what it’s like when your car breaks down and either you’re stranded on the highway or your transportation is out of commission for a few days or longer. If you’ve ever experienced what it’s like when you can’t get where you want to go, it’s easy to understand how customers feel about the technicians who figure it out and get their cars back on the road!
Because there will ALWAYS be cars and trucks that break down or need maintenance, there will always be jobs for men and women who know how to repair them.
This is a field where you can use your logical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and your preference for hands-on learning. Your persistence and determination to figure out how things work and solve problems will be essential.
You can make a good income doing something you enjoy.
Whether you have loads of previous mechanical experience or not, and especially if you enjoy learning about computers or electronics, you can succeed as a technician for today’s automobiles and trucks. At the same time, you may discover other jobs and careers in the automotive field that you didn’t even know existed! Either way, it all begins here at Kirtland.
The automotive industry is probably more than you imagine
The automotive industry has many different kinds of jobs and careers. Each one begins by learning the basics of Automotive Technology.
Automotive technicians have a unique blend of diagnostic skills, technical know how and the ability to interact with customers, employers and co-workers.
After completing your Associate Degree at Kirtland, you’ll be ready to get a job in:
- automotive repair
- working for a parts department
- working at a body shop (after also learning about sheet metal and paint)
- research and development for a dealership or vehicle manufacturer
After being in the industry for awhile, adding additional manufacturer certifications, perfecting your skills, or going back to school for a four-year degree in marketing or management, you could:
- become a race car mechanic
- become a field service rep for Fiat Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or General Motors
- work for a technical hotline
- work in the automotive industry in marketing or management
- go into automotive education
Career Opportunities
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics
Median Salary (2021) in Michigan: $46,810
Employment growth (2021-31): 0%
Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists
Median Salary (2021) in Michigan: $47,850
Employment growth (2021-31): 13%
Salary data according to O*NET Online
Is this a program where YOU can enjoy the learning and come out with a new profession?
If you agree with most of these ideas, the answer may be YES …
- I’m very curious about working on cars and trucks, or being involved in the automotive industry.
- I’m a hands-on learner – the more time in the lab, the better!
- I get satisfaction from taking something that’s not working and making it work or making it better. I love knowing I fixed something myself!
- I have what I would consider a good work ethic; I’m an honest, ethical person.
- I like the idea of learning about auto repairs which, in today’s world, involves both mechanical work and using computers.
- I’m good at problem solving; I like to understand how things work and how systems work together. I’m persistent, too, and don’t give up easily.
- I want a credential and skill set that can go with me anywhere.
Our program is designed so you can choose from three different credentials:
- Automotive Technology, Associate in Applied Science
- Automotive Master Certification, Certificate of Completion
- Diesel Service Specialist, Certificate of Completion
Our facility and faculty are exceptional
Your program takes place in a brand new facility built to industry standards on the Grayling campus.
You do NOT have to have your own tools to go through our program! Our beautiful lab has new state-of-the-art equipment at our learning center in Grayling, Michigan (stop by and see for yourself!)
We’re set up like a service department, fully loaded with all the tools you’ll need at your fingertips. Grab whatever tools you need while you’re in the lab and learn the basics of automobile repair.
We have access to programs with industry tool companies, such as Snap-On tools, so that, as a student, you can take advantage of deep discounts in purchasing your own set of tools.
Local and regional employers know that you’ve learned under the watchful eye of highly qualified faculty using the most industry-current technology.
You’ll be receiving industry-relevant training, informed by faculty who know what’s going on in the field today.
Your Kirtland education is respected by employers
Our program is ASE* certified at a MASTERS level, and is also a Mopar® Career Automotive Program (CAP) Local school, which is a great advantage for you.Â
Why? Because that means:
- You’ll graduate with industry certifications that will increase your value in the marketplace and give prospective employers confidence in your abilities.
- Students who obtain the Mopar Level One often go into the workforce at a higher wage scale.
- If you’re considering transferring to a four-year college or university, credits you earn with us will easily transfer — and we’ll make your transfer seamless.
* ASE stands for National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence
** Mopar is the parts, service, and customer care division of the former Chrysler Corporation, now Stellantis. The name comes from combining “MOtor” and “PARts”
We’ve designed a program for hands-on learners
If you’ve ever attended a school where your educational needs as a hands-on learner were not well met, where you didn’t feel your talents were recognized in large part because of your learning style, you’re in for a big surprise here at Kirtland. Hands-on learning is our specialty.
We provide you with a well-equipped, modern shop for learning and practice and plenty of time to practice under the guidance of skilled instructors
You’ll have every advantage at Kirtland
Small class sizes
We limit our program to 20 students. You’ll receive a lot of individual attention and can always get your questions answered while you learn.
Passionate student-focused advisors provide the guidance you need to succeed.
Our advisors are well-known among current and former students alike for their kindness and exceptional level of interest and commitment to our students’ success. They will do everything in their power to get you the right information and get your questions answered.
Kirtland makes it easier to work out the finances
You can save a lot of money by enrolling here. Our tuition rates are one-third the cost of most four-year schools and universities, which puts you at a real advantage!
We also have many resources for financial aid and professional staff who’ll help you apply.
Get help with your financial aid
You may be surprised by how simple it is to apply for government grants, scholarships and loans.
Your credit history is not a major consideration in qualifying for federal aid. You DON’T need to attend school full-time to qualify. And we will assist you with the process you’re dreading IF you need help. Often students are eligible for more money than they’re expecting.
Your path to a lucrative & fulfilling future
Step 1 — Get Started
Apply for admission to the college. Apply for financial aid. p.s. If you need assistance with your financial aid application, we’re here to help!
Step 2
Speak to an advisor!
They’ll help you navigate the process, dot the I’s and cross the T’s! Declare Automotive Technology as your program of study with your advisor. Choose between:
- Automotive Technology, Associate in Applied Science
- Automotive Master Certification, Certificate of Completion
- Diesel Service Specialist, Certificate of Completion
Step 3
Complete your program courses while earning state and national credentials.
Step 4
Victory! Graduate with a Certificate of Completion or Associate in Applied Science in Automotive Technology. Call your friends; it’s time to celebrate!
FINAL STEP
Take your new-found skills and go to work! Many students receive multiple offers for employment on graduation.
Bonus STEP
If you’re so inclined, continue your education and training at any point.