The Bakersfield College Automotive Technology program develops student's knowledge and skills in the areas of automotive systems operation, troubleshooting, maintenance and repair. The program is transferable to California State University campuses that offer Automotive Technology or related programs.
What is Automotive Technology?
Automotive technology focuses on the inspection, maintenance, and repair of automobiles. Careers in automotive technology include auto mechanics, diesel service technicians, auto body shop, service writers and warranty specialists, industrial production managers, mechanical engineers and more.
The Bakersfield College Automotive Technology program offers hands-on experiences to help you develop soft skills and technical skills. Each certificate is designed to help you pursue ASE and/or other industry certifications. With over 19 areas of certification covering a broad range of areas, we can help you achieve a lucrative career in the automotive industry.
Automotive Technology Training Facility
Bakersfield College partnered with the Greater Bakersfield New Car Dealer Association (GBNCDA), WSM Auctions, and other automotive industry partners on an upcoming automotive facility, to be located at Pacheco Road and Corrine St, at the Bakersfield Auto Mall. This new facility will provide much needed space for auto technology training and will expand student access to newer vehicles for hands-on mechanical and reconditioning experience. Learn more about the Automotive Technology Training Facility.
Automotive Technology in the News
Community Voices: Partnership builds next generation of automotive professionals by John Pitre
Is it Right for Me?
If you like problem-solving and working with your hands, this may be right for you. Employers look for strong problem-solving abilities and good customer service skills. You need above-average hand dexterity and precision with tools. A creative mind for design and engineering will find this appealing. You may also see yourself in a leadership or management role of an automotive repair facility, auto parts store, etc. Love for cars, engines, systems and how they operate.
The demand for auto technicians is expected to increase in the next few years with fewer qualified technicians. Women are especially in demand as they are underrepresented in this field1. Mechanics in Kern County are well-paid and can earn up to six figures. Certification increases your opportunities.
1 (Walsh, Lisa. 2021. MarketSource)
Automotive Technology Careers
Graduates with certificates and/or the AS degree in the Automotive Technology program Common careers for automotive technology graduates in the U.S from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics:
(Source: bls.gov)
Automotive Technology Degrees and Certificates
Bakersfield College offers the following ASE Education Foundation certified programs:
Program Mapper
Associate of Science
Automotive Technology
Prepares students for entry level employment at automotive or medium/heavy duty equipment dealerships and independent repair facilities.
Certificate of Achievement
Automatic Transmissions
Prepares students to further pursue certification through ASE in the A2 area.
Certificate of Achievement
Automotive Heating and Air Conditioning
Prepares students to further pursue certification through ASE in the A7, T7, H7, and S7 areas as well as MACS certification under Section 609 of the Clean Air Act.
Certificate of Achievement
Automotive Management
Prepares students to further pursue certification through ASE in the C1, P2, and P4 areas.
Certificate of Achievement
Brake System
Prepares students to further pursue certification through ASE in the A5, T4, H4, and S4 areas as well as certification for the Brake Adjuster License
Certificate of Achievement
Electrical and Electronic Systems
Prepares students to further pursue certification through ASE in the A6, T6, H6, S6, and L3 areas as well as certification for the Lamp Adjuster License.
Certificate of Achievement
Engine Overhaul and Repair
Prepares students to further pursue certification through ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) in the A1, A8, H1, H2, S2, T1, T2 areas as well as certification through the Automotive Engine Rebuilders Association (AERA).
Certificate of Achievement
Engine Performance
Prepares students to further pursue certification through ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) in the A8 and L1 areas as well as certification for the BAR (California Bureau of Automotive Repair) Specified Diagnostic and Repair training.
Certificate of Achievement
Light Duty Diesel Performance
Prepares students to further pursue certification through ASE in the A9 and L2 areas.
Certificate of Achievement
Manual Drive Train and Axles
Prepares students to further pursue certification through ASE in the A3 area.
Certificate of Achievement
Suspension and Steering
Prepares students to further pursue certification through ASE in the A4, H5, S5, and T5 areas.
Transfer Opportunities
Wish to continue your education beyond the AS? Some colleges offer a bachelors and beyond in Automotive Technology. Two schools to consider for a Bachelors in Science (BS) Degree:
Getting Started
The first step is to apply to BC and for Financial Aid. Start with our Steps to Enroll.
Many of the certificates and degrees require the Automotive Safety class which is available as a credit course (AUTOB10) and a non-credit course (AUTOB10NC). AUTOB11, Introduction to Automotive Technology, is another common course and often a prerequisite for other classes. Start off with the Automotive Safety and then take the Introduction to Automotive Technology.
Ensure that you are taking the right classes to meet your education and/or career goals, meet with one of the counselors or advisors to create your Comprehensive Student Education Plan (CSEP).
See the entire list of Automotive Technology courses (AUTO) and the Non-credit Automotive Technology Courses available at BC in the catalog.
Accessibility Center