Automotive Technology

High Quality, Hands-On Training for a Successful Career with Automobiles

CWI students in an auto technology lab and one is looking at the camera

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

$10,986 – 16,602

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.

Register to Attend

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.

Industry Partnerships

Areas of Study

Degrees & Certificates

Automotive Technology – Associate of Applied Science Degree

2

YEARS

AAS

Degree Requirements

Cost: $16,602

Automotive Technology – Advanced Technical Certificate

2

YEARS

ATC

Maintenance and Light Repair – Basic Technical Certificate

1

YEAR

BTC

A man working on an engine

Career Opportunities

  • Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul automotive vehicles.

    536

    Annual Openings*

    $22.25

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $46,280

    Annual Median Salary

    15.74%

    Growth (2021 – 2031)*

Load more

*Data sourced from Lightcast™ (2023), a global leader in labor market analytics, and limited to the state of Idaho. Contact CWI Institutional Research for questions regarding this data. Career pathways may require further education beyond CWI.

“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
Ryan Hael
Student, Automotive Technology

Admissions

Step 1

Step 2

  • Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Academic CalendarNew Student Checklist

Clubs

Graphic of tool with purple and gold flare like symbol
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

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 Month

The Nagel Foundation scholarship empowers second-year career and technical education students to complete their education.

Read more about Nagel Foundation Continues Commitment to Students
View all news

Request More Information

Interested in learning more about this program or getting started? Fill out the information below to be contacted by a member of our team.

By submitting, you consent to College of Western Idaho contacting you regarding educational programs and services using email, telephone, or text, including the use of automated technology for calls, pre-recorded messages, and periodic texts to any phone number you provide.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Connect With Us

Ready to get started? Our team looks forward to assisting you!