The service and repair of today’s automobiles is and will continue to be very challenging. Because of technological advances and the quest for higher levels of customer service and satisfaction, today’s automotive technician will need greater knowledge and competency levels than ever before.

During the last 20 years, there has been a rapid expansion in the use of electronics and microprocessor controls on automobiles. Today’s automobiles can have up to 42 on-board computers and microprocessors that control engine management, emissions, occupant restraints, and on-board navigation systems. Along with their technical skills, today’s technicians must also have good computer, communication and customer contact skills.

Stark State College’s automotive and transportation technology program consists of two associate degree and seven certificate of completion options. Associate degree options are: the comprehensive automotive and transportation technology program and the General Motors automotive service educational program (GM ASEP).

Non-degree-seeking students may earn a certificate of completion in automotive and transportation technology program by completing all of the technical courses included in the related associate degree program. Certificate of completion options are: the comprehensive automotive certificate of completion program, the comprehensive accelerated certificate of completion program, the Toyota T-TEN program, the Honda PACT program, the Caterpillar lift truck program, the ACDelco program, and the GM STC program.

Stark State’s automotive and transportation technology program curriculum blends classroom theory and hands-on training, thus giving students the knowledge base and competencies needed to process technical information, solve automotive problems and use diagnostics effectively. The program’s low student-to-instructor ratio provides the student with the opportunity to actively participate in classroom and lab activities. Graduates of Stark State’s automotive and transportation technology programs will be well prepared for a career as service technicians, dealership service advisors, service or parts managers, independent service facility operators, factory service representatives, insurance claims adjusters or lab test technicians. If students wish to pursue a bachelor degree after graduating from the program, they may transfer their Stark State credits to many well known four-year college and universities.

Stark State’s automotive and transportation programs have been locally and nationally rated by the Industry Planning Council of the American Automobile Manufacturers Association (AAMA).

All of Stark State’s automotive and transportation programs follow the guidelines required by the National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and are fully accredited by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF). Many of Stark State’s students pursue and pass ASE certification exams during the course of their instruction.

Graduates of Stark State’s associate degree programs will receive an associate degree in applied science in automotive and transportation technology program.