Jose Martinez, a second-year student in College of Western Idaho’s Automotive Technology program, turned his lifelong passion for cars into a promising career path.
Read more about Jose Martinez Finds His Future in Automotive TechnologyAutomotive Technology
High Quality, Hands-On Training for a Successful Career with Automobiles
Program Overview
Dreaming of a career in the automotive service industry? College of Western Idaho (CWI) offers a comprehensive Automotive Technology program that includes Basic Technical Certificate (BTC), Advanced Technical Certificate (ATC), and an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree option. In partnership with industry leaders like Ford Motor Company and Subaru, this program provides specialized training and certifications to equip you for the evolving automotive sector.
With a focus on hands-on experience, you will learn to perform maintenance, light repairs, and parts installation on automobiles and light trucks. The program combines practical skills with advanced technical theory, preparing you for a high level of technical expertise. Whether you choose the BTC, ATC, or pursue the AAS degree, you will have the opportunity to tailor your education to meet your career aspirations in the automotive service industry. The AAS degree, in particular, offers a more comprehensive educational experience, enhancing your qualifications and opening up broader career opportunities.
Degree or Certificate Type
Associate of Applied Science
Advanced Technical Certificate
Basic Technical Certificate
Cost
Additional cost may apply.
Time to Complete
1 – 2 years
Primary Location
Major Exploration
Major Exploration
Are you ready to shift your career into high gear? Whether you are passionate about cars, engines, or cutting-edge technology, join us to explore Automotive Technology at CWI and how this dynamic field can open doors to an exciting and rewarding future.
Learning Opportunities
- Industry Partnerships: Acquire valuable skills through partnerships with Ford Motor Company, Subaru, and other industry leaders.
- Hands-on Training: Learn by doing with extensive lab work and practicum settings in local dealerships and garages.
- Certifications & Skills: Earn OEM certifications and develop advanced skills in automotive technology.
- Versatile Career Options: Prepare for various roles in the automotive service industry, including dealership and independent service technician positions.
- Progression to AAS Degree: Have the option to continue your education and earn an AAS degree for further career advancement.
Areas of Study
Degrees & Certificates
Automotive Technology – Associate of Applied Science Degree
Degree Requirements
Cost: $16,973
Automotive Technology – Advanced Technical Certificate
Certificate Requirements
Cost: $15,534
Maintenance and Light Repair – Basic Technical Certificate
Certificate Requirements
Cost: $10,659
Program Orientation
Prior to registering for major-specific classes, admitted students must participate in a program orientation covering program expectations and requirements.
Career Opportunities
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics
Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul automotive vehicles.
89
Annual Openings*
$21.83
Hourly Median Wage*
$45,406
Annual Median Salary
5.98%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers, Transportation Equipment
Install, adjust, or maintain mobile electronics communication equipment, including sound, sonar, security, navigation, and surveillance systems on trains, watercraft, or other mobile equipment.
2
Annual Openings*
$46.86
Hourly Median Wage*
$97,469
Annual Median Salary
11.92%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicles
Install, diagnose, or repair communications, sound, security, or navigation equipment in motor vehicles.
N/A
Annual Openings*
$38.66
Hourly Median Wage*
$80,413
Annual Median Salary
N/A
Growth (2025 - 2035)*
*Data sourced from Lightcast™, a labor market analytics tool, and limited to the state of Idaho. Contact CWI Institutional Research for questions regarding this data. Career pathways may require further education beyond CWI.
Testimonial Carousel
“I have learned so many useful and impactful things that I can use to help myself and others for a lifetime. Because of CWI, I am bettering myself and able to do things I never thought I would be able to by myself.” Read more > about Building His Future Through CWI
Admissions
Step 1
- Apply to CWI.
- Choose Automotive Technology as your major.
Step 2
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Program Accreditation
The Automotive Technology program at College of Western Idaho meets the requirements for Master Automobile Service Technology Accreditation, the highest level of program accreditation recognized by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).
ASE Education Foundation
1503 Edwards Ferry Rd. NE, Suite 401
Leesburg, VA 20176
703.669.6650
Cost & Aid
As a student in this program, you may be eligible for financial aid and scholarships.
Lab Spaces
View the College’s state-of-the art lab spaces where you will receive hands-on, comprehensive career training.
Enrichment Opportunities
Enhance your academic experience, expand your knowledge, reach your goals, and celebrate your achievements.
Advising
Already a student? We are here to help you navigate your educational journey, connect you to academic and support resources, and achieve your academic or career goals.
Related Programs
Clubs
SkillsUSA
College of Western Idaho is proud to compete in SkillsUSA, a nationwide organization seeking to improve the quality of our nation's future skilled workforce through personal, workplace, and technical skills training.
News
The Nagel Foundation scholarship empowers second-year career and technical education students to complete their education.
Read more about 7 Years: Nagel Foundation Continues Support for CWI Students
Get ready for the upcoming semester at CWI's Admissions Express on Thursday, March 6.
Read more about Get Ready for Next Semester at Admissions Express!
Juniors from area high schools experienced hands-on instruction and explored career paths during the CWI Summer CTE Bridge Program.
Read more about High School Juniors Cross Off Skills at CWI Summer CTE Bridge Program
CWI attended the Duck Valley STEM Fair to promote OnRamp and the Automotive Technology and Honors programs to K-12 students.
Read more about Duck Valley Students Explore STEM with CWI
After a $224,000 donation on April 8, The Nagel Foundation has now invested over $1M to support successful student outcomes at CWI.
Read more about Nagel Foundation Scholarship Fund Tops $1M in Donations After 6 Years Supporting CWI Students
Three new Teslas have been acquired by CWI and will be used by students in the Automotive Technology and Collision Repair programs.
Read more about CWI Automotive Programs Innovate with Electric Vehicles
Students and Instructors from Automotive Technology and Collision Repair Technology Programs shifted into high gear as they toured the Tesla Service Center in Boise.
Read more about Automotive and Collision Repair Take a Spin Into the Future at Tesla Service Center
Through the support of those around him and a scholarship, Ryan Hael is on his way to success as he completes CWI's Automotive Technology program.
Read more about Building His Future Through CWI
Commercial Tire is empowering its employees and setting them up for success thanks to a partnership with College of Western Idaho!
Read more about CWI, Commercial Tire Partnership Producing Skilled Employees
Are you interested in learning more about careers and programs to help you get the job you want? If so, plan to attend one of College of Western Idaho's (CWI) Program Exploration Events!
Read more about Find Out More About CWI Programs through Exploration Events
Congratulations to Automotive Technology program Shop Assistant, Dean Taylor, named CWI’s Staff of the Month for October 2021.
Read more about Taylor Named October Staff of the MonthRequest More Information
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