Explore all the opportunities awaiting you at Wake Tech during the college's Open House, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday on Southern Wake Campus.
If you like fixing cars and trucks, a career as an automotive technician may be right for you. The automotive industry is seeking mechanical problem-solvers who enjoy working with their hands and understand the new technology involved in maintaining and repairing today's vehicles.
The median wage for automotive technicians and mechanics is $22.54 an hour – or $46,860 a year. Future career opportunities include the following:
For the skills you need to get started in the industry as an automotive technician, take the first step by enrolling in our Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair course. The course is taught in person and allows successful participants to earn up to four industry recognized certifications.
Don't have enough money to pay for a course? Right now, Wake Tech's Propel program offers scholarships that cover the cost of registration and fees.
NOTE: The Propel Scholarship Application is currently closed and will reopen on November 1.
Welcome to our comprehensive Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair Course. This class is designed to equip students with essential skills and knowledge needed in the dynamic automotive repair field. Throughout the modules, participants will explore hands-on exercises covering engine repair, bolt and nut identification, measuring techniques, service literature interpretation, transmission fundamentals, suspension and steering systems, brake maintenance, electrical/electronic systems, and engine performance. Our engaging and practical approach includes demonstrations, certifications, and real-world exercises, ensuring students gain the confidence and proficiency required for success in the automotive industry. Whether you're a beginner or looking to enhance your existing skills, this program provides a solid foundation for a rewarding career in automotive technology.
Section | Start Date | End Date | Location | Instructor | Price | Open Seats | |
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298045 | Northern Wake Campus | Tang | 230.00 | 0 | Notify Me |
Learn skills for entry-level automotive service positions in oil and lube maintenance, and gain confidence for the job market. The course will cover automotive systems, driving safety, working in a bay area environment, customer service, service managers’ expectations and career options as well as industry trends. Also, this class is a good opportunity for individuals who would like to learn basic car maintenance.
Section | Start Date | End Date | Location | Instructor | Price | Open Seats | |
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298386 | Northern Wake Campus | Berry | 79.00 | 3 | Register |
This course covers the theory, construction, inspection, diagnosis, and repair of internal combustion engines and related systems. Topics include fundamental operating principles of engines and diagnosis, inspection, adjustment, and repair of automotive engines using appropriate service information. Upon completion, students should be able to perform basic diagnosis, measurement and repair of automotive engines using appropriate tools, equipment, procedures, and service information.
To be notified when this course becomes available, please use Wake Tech's Notify Me service.
This course will provide an in-depth study of the technology, maintenance, and repair of hybrid, plug-in, and all electric light duty passenger vehicles. Basic diagnostic, repair, and maintenance procedures of the unique systems associated with hybrid and electric vehicles will be discussed and practiced. Special tools and diagnostic equipment will be used during the laboratory exercises.
Section | Start Date | End Date | Location | Instructor | Price | Open Seats | |
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300395 | Northern Wake Campus | McNary | 200.00 | 12 | Register |
This course focuses on diagnosing automotive air conditioning. We will cover refrigerant flow, types of compressors, and ASE section 609 certifications. Classroom time will include review of wiring diagrams of control circuits, researching specs and procedures, and refrigerant handling regulations. Lab time will include hands-on practice with vehicles, using multi-meters, scan tools, and Recovery, Recycling, and Recharging equipment. Students should learn strategies to cut diagnostic time and improve accuracy towards Fixed Right the First Time. Wake Tech will prepare students for 609 certification, students must register with ASE to obtain the license.
To be notified when this course becomes available, please use Wake Tech's Notify Me service.
This course introduces students to Shop key, Scanner & Lab scope, Basic Automotive Electrical, Lift Safety, Alignment, Digital Vehicle inspections, AC Diagnostics & will include NC safety & Vehicle Inspections. It also includes the safe operation of shop equipment, such as automotive lifts. Students will learn how to identify automobile failures and perform maintenance and service, as well as how to research technical information electronically to determine correct service procedures and specifications. This course also prepares students for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) A6 & A7 and students will receive National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3) certifications.
To be notified when this course becomes available, please use Wake Tech's Notify Me service.
This course will cover all of the components and electronics in a simple electric vehicle. Students will learn about electrical measurements such as Volts, Ohms, Amps, and Watts. During the lab portion of the course we will build an electric vehicle from the frame up. Students will study the theory of each component then install it on the vehicle. Components include the high voltage battery, on board charger, power inverter, motor, high voltage safety interlocks, lighting, brakes, and suspension. After the build is finished, students will configure software and test drive the vehicle.
Section | Start Date | End Date | Location | Instructor | Price | Open Seats | |
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298521 | Northern Wake Campus | McNary | 200.00 | 0 | Notify Me |
This course covers basic electrical theory, wiring diagrams, test equipment, and diagnosis /repair/replacement of batteries, starters, and alternators. Topics include Ohm’s Law, Circuit construction, wiring diagrams, circuit testing, and basic trouble shooting. Upon completion, students should be able to read and understand wiring diagrams, diagnose test, and repair basic wiring, battery, starting, charging, and basic electrical concerns.
To be notified when this course becomes available, please use Wake Tech's Notify Me service.
This course introduces the proper procedures for using automotive refinishing equipment and materials in surface preparation and application. Topics include federal, state, and local regulations, personal safety, refinishing equipment and materials, surface preparation, masking, application techniques, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to identify and use proper equipment and materials in refinishing following accepted industry standards.
*THIS IS A REQUIRED COURSE TO BE ELIGABLE TO TAKE AUTO BODY RESTORATIONS PROJECT BASED CLASS*
To be notified when this course becomes available, please use Wake Tech's Notify Me service.
You may not be able to drive a car yet, but you can prepare early by learning some basics of how to care for cars.
Learn how to open the hood and safely check and adjust fluid levels, check engine hoses and belts, check and adjust tire pressures, check windshield wipers and lighting systems, and more.
This week students will get hands on to learn about safety, engines, electrical, hybrid and electric cars and even airbrushing!
To be notified when this course becomes available, please use Wake Tech's Notify Me service.
Are you interested in auto body restoration? This course provides knowledge and skills in automobile construction and design; cleaning, removing, and installing parts; painting; use of tools; safety procedures, and more. Students will participate in realistic training activities and work on their own projects.
To be notified when this course becomes available, please use Wake Tech's Notify Me service.