student working on a car engine

Automotive Technician

Overview Admissions Careers & Connections Tools & Supplies Courses & Costs

Overview

Automotive service technicians may be employed by dealerships, independent repair shops, organizations that operate a fleet of vehicles, component rebuilders, parts retailers and autobody repair companies.  

The scope of the automotive service technician trade includes many aspects of vehicle service and repair. Technicians may choose to specialize in specific areas of automotive vehicle repair. With additional training, experienced automotive service technicians may advance to shop supervisor, service manager positions or entrepreneurship.  

Register as an apprentice within two years of completing the program, and your in-school technical training may count towards your Level 1 Automotive Service Technician. 

Program Learning Outcomes 

  • Complete work in compliance with provincial and/or national codes, applicable laws, standards and ethical practices in industry. 
  • Comply with health and safety practices and procedures in accordance with current legislation and regulations. 
  • Diagnose and repair engine and engine support systems. 
  • Diagnose and repair vehicle electronic communications systems. 
  • Diagnose and repair driveline systems. 
  • Diagnose and repair electrical and HVAC systems. 
  • Diagnose and repair steering and suspension, braking, control systems, tires, hubs and wheel bearings. 
  • Diagnose and repair restraint systems, body components, accessories and trim. 
  • Diagnose and repair hybrid and electric vehicles. 
  • Develop and use strategies for ongoing professional development to remain current with industry changes, enhance work performance and explore career opportunities. 
  • Communicate and collaborate with clients, supervisors, coworkers and tradespersons to complete projects on time and to maintain effective working relationships. 

Examples of what automotive service technicians can do: 

  • Inspect engine operation, road test motor vehicles, and test automotive systems and components. 
  • Adjust, repair or replace, rebuild parts and components of automotive systems using hand and power tools.  
  • Perform scheduled maintenance service, such as oil changes, lubrications and tune ups. 
  • Inspect and test mechanical units, such as engines, transmissions, axles and brake systems, to locate faults and malfunctions. 

Success Factors 

You might be a good fit for this program if you have or would enjoy: 

  • Working with cars and trucks. 
  • Using thinking skills and visual analysis to diagnose and repair problems. 
  • Working independently or in a collaborative team environment as the situation requires. 
  • Continually learning and adapting to technological advancements in the field. 

A valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle is strongly recommended given the potential need to travel for practicum placement. 

The industry and program environment require individuals to: 

  • Be reliable, punctual, and regularly attend. 
  • Move around and work within the environment, negotiating different areas. 
  • Use hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity to complete specific tasks. 
  • Work in an environment that includes noise, fumes, odours, hazardous compounds, drafts, vibrations, and confined spaces. 
  • Complete responsibilities requiring standing and bending. 
  • Have the strength, dexterity, balance and stamina required to work in or on equipment. 
  • Research technical information. 
  • Read various documents including repair manuals, manufacturers’ bulletins and safety documents. 
  • Complete workplace documents such as written or electronic quotes, work order descriptions, inspection reports and incident reports. 
  • Work in industry-specific shifts, schedules, and conditions. 
  • Listen to direction and act on that accordingly. 
  • Demonstrate safety-conscious attitudes and work practices.

 

Admissions

  • A complete Manitoba Grade 12 or equivalent

  • Consumer/Essential Math 40S or equivalent.

English is the language of instruction at Assiniboine. All applicants educated outside of Canada or in a country not on the test exempt list are expected to meet the English language proficiency requirement. See assiniboine.net/elp for more information. 

International Applicants

If you are an international applicant, please read our Helpful Information for International Applicants prior to applying to this program.

Careers & Connections

Career Opportunities

  • Dealerships
  • Repair shops
  • Sales
  • Automotive component parts

Connections

Students who successfully complete the accredited program with an accumulative average of 70% or better in the trade subjects and level for which the program was accredited, gain employment and register as an apprentice within two years of graduating, will receive credit for Level 1 in-school technical training and 900 hours in the Automotive Service Technician Apprenticeship program.

Assiniboine has a number of agreements with other colleges, universities and professional organizations, making it possible for students to apply credit taken at Assiniboine to programs at other institutions. For up-to-date information on agreements, visit the Articulation Agreements page.

 

Tools & Supplies

Our classrooms, labs and shops are equipped with the necessary equipment that you need to make the most of your experience. However, there are some tools and supplies that you will need to purchase for personal use to help you with your studies. Much of what you purchase you’ll be able to use after you graduate and begin your career. Tool and supply lists are available from the school office 30 days prior to the start date of the program.

Students are advised not to purchase tools until the second week of school. The School of Trades & Technology holds a Tool Fair during this week where students meet with various suppliers and purchase tools at reduced costs. 

Program Checklist and Textbooks/Supplies

 Program Checklist:

Booklist:

Supplies:

Technology Requirements

Students in this program are expected to have a computer at home with internet access that meets the technical needs outlined by the program. Refer to assiniboine.net/tech for detailed information.

 

Courses & Costs

Costs

Estimated Program Costs (Domestic students)
  Credits Tuition Course fees Students' Association fees (Inc Health Premium) Estimated textbooks, tools and supplies
Automotive Technician 67 $3,850 $1,470 $500 $4,260

All fees are estimated and subject to change without notice.

Estimated Program Costs (International students)
  Credits Tuition Course fees Students' Association fees (Inc Health Premium) Required Health Insurance Estimated textbooks, tools and supplies
Automotive Technician 67 $17,310 $1,470 $500 $750 $4,260

All fees are estimated and subject to change without notice.

All fees are estimated and are subject to change without notice. All international students must purchase health insurance. The college adds this fee to your student account and then sends your name and fee to the insurance provider on your behalf.

Courses

To graduate with an Automotive Technician certificate, students must successfully complete 67 academic credits. The minimum passing grade for each course is indicated on the course outline. Course offerings are subject to change and may vary by intake.

Courses
Title Credits/CEUs Elective Distance PLAR
College Foundations (PEDV-0356)

This course improves students’ ability to navigate the college experience and environment, including student's rights, roles, and responsibilities. In this course, students reflect on their skills, attitudes, and expectations and develop learning strategies to help them to become successful, resilient, and self-directed learners. The course covers topics such as success in online learning, time management strategies, learning strategies, assessment taking strategies, academic integrity, information and digital literacy, and wellness, among others. It integrates elements of student orientation.

 0 credit(s) No No No
Communications (COMM-0045)

This course includes instruction in techniques to improve both written and oral communication with prospective employers, co-workers and clients. Effective strategies for customer service are emphasized. It also serves to familiarize students with the regulations related to the workplace. As well, students receive an introduction to the use of computer software and hands-on experience with Windows operating system, Internet and email.

 3 credit(s) No No No
Electrical Science (ELEC-0001)

This course helps students to develop an understanding of basic electrical science. Students learn about various electrical laws including Ohm's law and are able to follow basic circuit diagrams and understand schematics used in the mechanical trade.

 3 credit(s) No No No
Electrical/Electronic Systems (ELEC-0013)

Prerequisites: WRKP-0009 Orientation and Shop Skills, ELEC-0001 Electrical Science
Electrical and electronic systems are used to operate and control many of the functions found on modern automobiles, heavy duty and farm equipment. Technicians require a thorough understanding of the basics of electrical circuits, the principles of operation of system components and of the inter-relationships between these components. In this course, students develop the skills and knowledge to service, diagnose and repair electrical systems and components, including wiring harnesses, switches, relays, solenoids, circuit breakers, fuses, lighting systems and batteries. Students learn to service, diagnose and repair electrical systems and components including cranking, charging and ignition systems, instrument and gauge circuits, and starting aid circuits. Emphasis is on accurate and efficient troubleshooting to isolate faulty components and failure analysis to avoid recurring failures.

 15 credit(s) No No No
Gas Engines (MECH-0054)

Prerequisites: WRKP-0061 Orientation and Shop Skills, ELEC-0001 Electrical Science
This course acquaints students with the systems and components that make up a gasoline or diesel internal combustion engine. Students learn to maintain, troubleshoot and repair engine support systems. They disassemble a complete engine, clean, inspect and measure all components for wear, recondition heads and reassemble the engine.

 15 credit(s) No No No
Math - Automotive (MATH-0109)

This course is designed to provide the student with the knowledge and ability to use mathematics with precision, resourcefulness, and confidence. Topics include an overview of the importance of math to the trade, and a review of general mathematical concepts with an emphasis on concepts that are related to the automotive trade.

 1.5 credit(s) No No No
Orientation & Shop Skills (WRKP-0061)

This course prepares students for progression into other program areas by building a solid foundation of shop skills. Students become familiar with college facilities, resources and extracurricular activities. Major course topics include: shop safety procedures, the correct use and maintenance of hand tools, power tools and shop equipment. Demonstrations of precision measuring, fastener identification and tightening procedures are required. Students also learn metal fabrication, basic machinery maintenance, and safe machinery operation. Safe work practices, proper tool selection and referral to service manuals are emphasized.

 10.5 credit(s) No No No
Power Trains Automotive (MECH-0056)

Prerequisite: WRKP-0009 Orientation and Shop Skills
Students learn the theory, operation and repair of various drive train components such as transaxles, clutches, differentials and axles. They also learn the theory, operation and repair of standard transmissions, and theory, operation and testing of automatic transmissions.

 15 credit(s) No No No
Practicum - AUTO (PRAC-0164)

Prerequisite: Cumulative weighted grade point average (CWGPA) of 2.0 or greater.
Students spend approximately three weeks on the job to gain experience in a work environment. Credit is subject to approval of the work experience by a designated faculty member. The student must submit evidence that the work has been successfully completed.

 3 credit(s) No No No
Welding 1 (WELD-0001)

Students learn the basics of oxyacetylene, arc, and mig welding as applied to the mechanical trade.

 3 credit(s) No No No

Fast Facts

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the next program information session?

Program information sessions are completely free to attend, and we invite you to bring a guest along as well. It's a good idea to register in advance so we know you're coming.

To find the complete schedule for our program information sessions and to RSVP, visit the program information session page.