Automotive Services
Pursuing a career in automotive services offers the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology, diagnose and solve complex problems, and contribute to the efficient functioning of vehicles.
What It's All About
The automotive service technician works in an exciting and technologically advanced industry. In this program, you are trained in a hands-on laboratory setting equipped with modern diagnostic and service equipment to perform the diagnostic, repair, and maintenance procedures necessary to keep today's vehicles operating properly. You will develop the knowledge and skills related to workplace safety, employability practices, and the diagnosis and repair of engine mechanical components, steering, suspension and alignment, brakes, manual drive lines and axles, electrical and electronic systems, heating, ventilation and air conditioning, automatic transmissions/trans axles and proper engine performance.
Students entering this program benefit from having a mechanical aptitude and the ability to comprehend written service manual literature.
Skills learned in the automotive technology program may also be applied to a variety of career opportunities beyond automotive service including employment in the mining, heavy (diesel) equipment, automotive manufacturing, auto parts sales, and the performance racing industries.
Job Outlook
Graduates are employed locally and regionally at dealerships, independent garages, service stations, automotive stores, and more. Students are encouraged to take the state certification exam at the end of each semester in order to remain qualified for employment.
Median Earnings
$20/hr.
Projected Job Growth
to 2029
+6% (Michigan)
Education Levels
of current workers
43% high school diploma
23% some college
12% associate degree
4% bachelor's degree
Earnings, job growth and education levels noted are from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (National), and CareerOneStop/U.S. Department of Labor (Michigan).
What does a career in automotive services look like?
A career in automotive services entails working in various capacities within the automotive industry, focusing on the maintenance, repair, and overall servicing of vehicles. Professionals in this field may be automotive technicians who diagnose and fix mechanical issues, service advisors who interact with customers and provide guidance on vehicle maintenance, or automotive engineers who design and innovate vehicle components and systems.
A career in automotive services often involves staying up-to-date with evolving automotive technologies, utilizing specialized tools and equipment, and continuously learning and adapting to new advancements in the industry. It requires strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and a passion for automobiles, as well as the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
Programs
Automotive Service Technology
Associate of Technology
Students enrolled in the associate degree program complete the same technical courses as the automotive service certificate program plus liberal studies courses which further prepare them for employment as service technicians and may increase the opportunity to advance their career.
For students interested in pursuing a degree beyond the associate, the credits earned in the Automotive Service Technology program are transferable to a baccalaureate degree program in industrial technology or technology and applied sciences with no loss of credit.
Automotive Maintenance
Certificate
The automotive maintenance certificate program prepares graduates for employment in the automotive repair industry as maintenance and service technicians by providing skills training in all the major areas of automotive diagnosis and repair.
Upon graduation, you will have several options relative to job placement including: specializing in a single area of automotive repair, focusing on the diagnosis and repair of specific automotive car lines at a dealership, or servicing a wide range of vehicles in most or all areas of repair in the independent sector.
Automotive Service
Certificate
The automotive service certificate program prepares graduates for employment in the automotive repair industry as maintenance and service technicians by providing skills training in all the major areas of automotive diagnosis and repair.
Upon graduation, you will have several options relative to job placement including: specializing in a single area of automotive repair, focusing on the diagnosis and repair of specific automotive car lines at a dealership, or servicing a wide range of vehicles in most or all areas of repair in the independent sector.
Automotive Service Technology
Minor
A minor in automotive service technology can complement other majors, such as business, engineering, or transportation, allowing students to combine their passion for automotive technology with their chosen field of study. This program equips students with practical skills, industry knowledge, and a competitive edge in the dynamic and evolving automotive sector.
Contact Information
The Technology and Occupational Sciences office is at Northern Michigan University's Jacobetti Complex, Room 105.
Phone: 906-227-2190
Email: tos@nmu.edu
Automotive Services Faculty & Staff
Seth Figler | Instructor
Phone: 906-227-1538
Email: sfigler@nmu.edu
Randal Klitzke | Associate Professor
Phone: 906-227-1539
Email: raklitzk@nmu.edu