As long as people need cars, there will be high demand for jobs in automotive technology. A well-trained automotive technician can earn in the 40-50 thousand dollars a year range, and sometimes more.
If you're interested in cars and want to build a career around working with them, Oakton's Automotive Technology program is for you. It offers an Associate in Applied Science Degree (A.A.S.) as well as the Automotive Technology and Automotive Technology Powertrain certificates. The curriculum is designed to fulfill the accreditation requirements of the (Automotive Service Excellence Educational Foundation) ASEEF which provides the training for entry-level technicians.
This program offers classes for those already working in the field who are looking to upskill for those with little to no automotive experience, who are looking to get into the highly-skilled automotive technology trade. Classes meet during the day and in the evening, and students can complete the program within three semesters.
Degrees and Certificates
We offer multiple curriculum paths for you if you are interested in Automotive Technology.
The A.A.S. degree opens many doors and great earnings potential in the automotive repair industry and many related repair industries, too.
Three classes and 12 credit hours earn you our Automotive Under Car Certificate. This certificate is recommended to start with if you are just starting out.
This certificate exposes students to the principles and theory of automotive electrical systems and provides opportunities for students to demonstrate the detailed operation and services of batteries, starters, and alternators. Emphasis is placed on Ohm’s Law, diagnosis/repair of electrical systems and different types of communication networks. This certificate is for students seeking entry-level careers in automotive technology or for individuals seeking to learn additional automotive systems to advance their skills and career. This certificate can be completed in one semester.
This certificate exposes students to the principles and theory of automotive engines and provides opportunities for students to demonstrate the detailed operation and servicing of engine components. Emphasis is placed on measurement of engine components, disassembly and assembly of the cylinder head and the engine block. This certificate is for students seeking entry-level careers in automotive technology or for individuals seeking to learn additional automotive systems to advance their skills and career. This certificate can be completed in one semester.
This certificate prepares students for careers in Supply Chain Management (SCM). Possible jobs positions would be in technical support and overseeing of the flow of goods and services. It includes the movement and storage of raw materials, work-in-process inventory, and finished goods from point of origin to point of consumption.
The Automation ProgrammingCertificate consists of 15 credit hours. The job of Programmable Controllers (PLC/PAC) Technician is to design, program, calibrate, monitor, troubleshoot, and repair automation systems ranging from simple traffic lights to complex industrial automation systems.
We are glad you are considering attending Oakton College. No matter where you are in your decision-making process, we are here to help you with your next steps. Whether you're ready to apply now, need information on paying for college or have questions and want to contact someone, we're here to help.
Enrolling at Oakton College can save you thousands of dollars and help you earn more over the course of your career. Our tuition is among the lowest in the region, and we offer many ways to bring your costs down even more.
99 percent of Oakton students graduate without debt.
To help you get there, you can apply for a scholarship, which you don’t have to pay back. We award $12 million in scholarships annually. Financial Aid includes grants, loans, and other forms of financial assistance that can reduce your costs of attending college.
We offer payment options that give you control over how you pay. Pay all at once or spread your payments over the course of the semester.
As your community college, we serve students from various backgrounds. We aim to make the application process as easy and as clear as possible for everyone.
We can help you get started on a degree or certificate. Applying to Oakton is fast and easy.
Your first step before you begin your studies is filling out an admission application and completing your enrollment process.
Oakton's Automotive Technology program faculty will work with you to ensure you learn the skills you'll need to succeed. The Automotive Technology program curriculum is overseen by an expert advisory committee made up of local educators, community leaders, and professionals from the automotive industry.
Michael Peat, Chair Professor of Automotive Technology mpeat@oakton.edu847.635.1906 Office: Room 1852
Meet our part-time faculty
Joe Foellmer Lecturer jfoelleme@oakton.edu 847.376.7206 847.635.1910 Office: B206, Skokie
