Automotive Technology

GWC offers the best in Automotive Technology training, with full certification by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF).

All of Golden West College’s instructors are certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), and have up-to-date, real-world experience in the subjects they teach.

The Automotive Technology department’s lab facilities, operations, and equipment reflect industry standards, ensuring a smooth transition from classroom to career.

Golden West cares! GWC is an energetic and welcoming community of learning, committed to supporting your higher education aspirations. Learn more about Golden West College’s student services and support resources by clicking here.

Driven by rapid evolution in the way that vehicles are built and fueled, the automotive technology industry is adapting to create new opportunities every day. Career professionals in this field – particularly those with college-level certification and training – are in high demand, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting industry growth of 5-9% by 2026.   Golden West College Automotive Technology grads are earning great salaries in these positions and more!  

• A/C Technician
• Automotive Drivability Technician
• Automotive Service Technician
• Certified ASE Master Automotive Technician
• Heavy Line Technician
• Honda Certified Technician
• Lube Technician
• Oil Bay Technician
• Quick Service Technician
• Transmission Rebuilder

Golden West College is proud to provide excellent-quality Career Education at a low cost. Our goal is to remain accessible to ALL community members seeking to enrich their future. Tuition: $46 per unit for California residents. Information on College Service Charge and additional fees available at: http://www.goldenwestcollege.edu/register/.

For Financial Aid information or to find out if you are eligible for Free Tuition through our
Golden Promise Program, visit http://www.goldenwestcollege.edu/goldenpromise/.

Golden West College’s Automotive Technology department is honored to be the recipient of a 2018 Strong Workforce Star from the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office. Automotive Tech at GWC earned a Bronze Star for excellence in earning outcomes, with the accolade noting a 55% average increase in earnings among program alums.

Golden West College is committed to providing students with affordable, accessible Career Education pathways, along with responsive staff to assist and guide you on your way!

Career and Employment Center:
GWC’s Career Center is a hub for services related to the career development needs of students and the general public. Our friendly staff can assist you in exploring career fields with a comprehensive library of up-to-date, computerized and published resources.

Learning Resource Center:
Featuring facilities and materials for general assistance in math, reading, writing, and more, GWC’s Learning Resource Center is a one-stop destination for student support. Take advantage of tutoring services, computer lab access, library resources, and more.

Special Programs:
Golden West hosts a variety of career-oriented programs and services, including CalWORKS, Cooperative Work Experience (CWE), and many others.

Advising and Counseling:
Make sure you’re in the right classes… and on the right course! GWC’s Planning and Guidance Services cover a broad range of student needs, including degree advising, career counseling, and transfer assistance.

Special Programs:
Golden West College is committed to assisting our underserved and challenged students in any way possible. GWC offers specific resources for DACA students, Former Foster Youth, students requiring Basic Needs Assistance, and more.

For more information regarding the Automotive Technology program costs and employment outcome averages, click here.

Chassis and Drivetrain Specialist – Certificate of Achievement:

• Measure and convert assigned unit pieces to interpret the appropriate SAE and metric unit. (Celsius to Fahrenheit, and inches to millimeters)
• Identify a fault (AC No Air) and will perform a repair to then evaluate a successful fix in a lab situation.
• Analyze and diagnose automotive engines and related components for correct system operation.
• Demonstrate mastery of diagnostic tools and equipment used for automotive repair.

Chassis and Drivetrain Specialist – Associate in Arts:

• Measure and convert assigned unit pieces to interpret the appropriate SAE and metric unit. (Celsius to Fahrenheit, and inches to millimeters)
• Identify a fault (AC No Air) and will perform a repair to then evaluate a successful fix in a lab situation.
• Analyze and diagnose automotive engines and related components for correct system operation.
• Demonstrate mastery of diagnostic tools and equipment used for automotive repair.

Engine Performance and Emission Specialist – Certificate of Achievement:

• Measure and convert assigned unit pieces to interpret the appropriate SAE and metric unit. (Celsius to Fahrenheit, and inches to millimeters)
• Identify a fault (AC No Air) and will perform a repair to then evaluate a successful fix in a lab situation.
• Analyze and diagnose automotive engines and related components for correct system operation.
• Demonstrate mastery of diagnostic tools and equipment used for automotive repair.

Engine Performance and Emission Specialist – Associate in Arts:

• Measure and convert assigned unit pieces to interpret the appropriate SAE and metric unit. (Celsius to Fahrenheit, and inches to millimeters)
• Diagnose and identify a fault, and will perform the necessary steps to complete an accurate repair.
• Analyze and diagnose automotive engines and related components for correct system operation.
• Demonstrate mastery of diagnostic tools and equipment used for automotive repair.