March 9, 2009

44,000 auto technicians will be in demand in the next five years, according to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics. CATEC's auto-tech program is giving its students a leg up in the working world by not only teaching the basics but also pairing up with dealerships for internships.

The demand for auto technicians is largely a result of more and more cars being registered. Baby boomer technicians are about to retire, and Paul Johnson, an auto technician instructor, said: "There's new technology. There's a lot of hybrids and electric cars coming out."

Today's technician needs to keep his or her skill set up to speed, while at the same time mastering the basics. With the economy as it is, consumers are holding onto their older cars longer.

"If they're looking at a $30,000 car versus a $3,000 repair, they'll opt for that one time bill," Johnson said.

CATEC's two-year auto tech program gives its students an advantage over others. It is one of only 20 in the commonwealth to receive a dual certification. Manufacturers provide the cars and tools for the class, and local dealerships provide internships. The students get out of the classroom and get their hands dirty.

"When these guys are working on Mondays, they're getting that new technology while they're working," Johnson said. "They have a mentor that works with them while they're working."

After completing the course, the students master more than 300 tasks to help land that job.

As Johnson pointed out, "they can go into a job at a dealership or further education gives them access to dealership," which puts them in a position to satisfy the needs of vehicle owners in the next century.

On an economic side note, since CATEC has the backing or certification from manufacturers, those manufacturers provide the cars at no cost for the course.

For entry-level positions, the starting salary is in the mid-20's to mid-30's.