The Automotive Technology program at Oxnard College prepares students to enter the automotive industry as entry-level technicians. Oxnard College also offers classes to improve the skills of technicians already in the industry and has recently accelerated its offerings to students and future students through business partnerships.
Girl Scouts of California’s Central Coast
When people think of auto repair technicians, they often think of men. But the field is a good choice for women, too. In August, troops from Girl Scouts of California’s Central Coast learned firsthand about the field when they attended a workshop at the Automotive Technology program at Oxnard College to get their car care badge.
The two-hour workshop introduced the girl scouts to vital skills surrounding emergency/roadside safety, basic car maintenance and investigative vehicle safety. The scouts watched and performed basic care and observed how to jumpstart a car, how to put on a spare tire and wiper blades, and what to carry in a car to be prepared in case of an emergency.
“We actively encourage young girls to consider careers as auto mechanics,” said Oxnard College’s Keller Magenau. “These are high-demand, living-wage, potentially entrepreneurial opportunities for women.”
Ford Automotive Career Exploration
Starting with the fall 2019 semester, Oxnard College students interested in a career in the automotive services industry are participating in the Ford Automotive Career Exploration (ACE) program. Oxnard College is only one of four colleges in California to have this program, which is locally affiliated with Vista Ford in Oxnard.
“Oxnard College is excited to offer our students the opportunity to get Ford trained,” said Kevin Corse, an instructor in the Automotive Technology program. “This program and our partnership with the Vista dealerships will give our students a competitive edge and an early start into Ford accelerated training programs for salary and position advancement.”
The Ford ACE program involves web-based and hands-on learning. Students will receive specialty training in areas such as new model training, electrical systems, steering and suspension, and brakes. In addition, courses cover the history of Ford Motor Company, the company’s vision for future products, collision repair and Ford-specific service routines.
According to 2018 Bureau of Labor Statistics, automotive service technicians and mechanics earn a median pay of $19.57 an hour. Job opportunities for qualified applicants should be very good through 2028, according to the BLS, with many of the job openings occurring at dealerships and independent repair shops.