Auto Tech
A wrench in one hand and a computer in the other—that’s what it takes to work on cars. At GWC, learn the basics for entry-level jobs and add specialized skills to accelerate.
Hands-On + High Tech
What's that rattle? Why does it pull to the left? What oil should I use? Automotive technicians solve mysteries. They apply standards, use their senses, run diagnostics, and figure stuff out.
Study auto tech at Golden West College (GWC) to practice your craft in labs and facilities that are industry standard. Learn from Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certified instructors.
Then go out there and keep the cars running well.
I’m ready to prepare for my next job in auto tech.
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Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certified
Golden West College is an ASE Education Foundation certified school in the area of Automotive Technology. That means your GWC classes meet ASE standards for:
- Number of hours in class & labs
- Tool quality & type
- Lab assignments aligned to industry standards
It also means that when you pass our classes, your next employer knows you're ready for the job.
+5.7%
Job growth expected for automotive engineering technicians
A GROWING FIELD
CHASSIS & DRIVE
4 certificates, 1 AA
EMISSIONS
2 certificates, 1 AS
HVAC
1 certificate
COMPREHENSIVE
1 multi-specialty certificate
Auto Tech at GWC
Honda Certification
Paid internship plus certification almost always leads to a solid job. Learn the skills to get started at a Honda dealership, which must hire Honda certified technicians. You learn:
- Express service
- Maintenance
- Light repair
Pass the final exam to earn your certification!
This PACT program (professional automotive career training) is sponsored and certified by Honda.
New to Auto Tech?
For a fast start to your new career, consider one of these certificates. They will help you enter the workforce in one area of the complex world of cars. Come back later to add another and advance your career.
- Automotive HVAC Specialist (18 units, 4 classes, 2 semesters)
- Chassis Specialist (18.5 units, 4 classes, 2 semesters)
- Powertrain Specialist (22 units, 5 classes, 2 semesters)
- Smog Technician Specialist (24 units, 5 classes, 2 semesters)
Learn More Than the Basics
For a more comprehensive approach to auto tech, earn a two-year certificate or associate’s degree. At GWC, you have three options:
- Associate of Arts (AA), Chassis & Drivetrain Specialist (60 units, 15-17 classes)
- Associate of Science (AS), Engine Performance & Emissions Specialist (60 units, 15-17 classes)
- Certificate of Achievement, Comprehensive Automotive Technician (49.5 units, 11 classes)
Each of the degree programs gives you a specialization to start your career. They also add general education classes for breadth and a head start on management skills or transferring to a four-year.
The certificate, on the other hand, gives you the most auto-tech classes. Any of the programs take at least four semesters to complete.
START NOW
Earn priority registration by applying early, attending orientation, and developing your academic plan.
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Golden West College
15744 Goldenwest Street
Huntington Beach, CA 92647