The automotive repair landscape has undergone a significant transformation. Today’s car mechanics are not just wrench-turners; they are highly skilled technicians adept at using sophisticated electronic equipment and computer diagnostic systems. To excel in modern automotive servicing, a deep understanding of computer diagnostics is as crucial as traditional mechanical skills. The Automotive Systems Technology program is specifically designed to equip you with the comprehensive knowledge and hands-on expertise necessary for a successful career in this evolving industry.
Wake Technical Community College offers a comprehensive two-year Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in Automotive Systems Technology, meticulously crafted to address the demands of the contemporary automotive service sector. This program places a strong emphasis on both established and cutting-edge technologies, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the future of automotive repair. A key feature of the curriculum is its commitment to practical learning, with most courses incorporating three hours of hands-on laboratory work for every hour of classroom instruction. Wake Tech’s curriculum provides a holistic education, systematically covering all facets of automotive systems, progressing from fundamental principles to advanced technological applications, all to guarantee student readiness for the professional environment. The program gives particular attention to electrical systems, recognizing their central role in modern vehicles where electricity governs the vast majority – approximately 99% – of operational functions. Importantly, prior experience in automotive systems is not a prerequisite for enrollment, making this program accessible to individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Comprehensive Curriculum for Modern Automotive Technicians
The Automotive Systems Technology program at Wake Tech provides a broad and deep dive into the essential areas of vehicle mechanics and computer diagnostics, including:
- Electrical Systems: Gain in-depth knowledge of automotive electrical systems, the backbone of modern vehicle operation. This module covers everything from basic circuits to complex electronic control units, preparing you to diagnose and repair electrical issues effectively using computer-aided tools.
- Theory: Develop a strong theoretical foundation in automotive principles. Understanding the underlying physics and engineering principles is critical for effective diagnostics and repair, especially when dealing with computer-controlled systems.
- Servicing and Operation of Brakes: Learn the intricacies of brake systems, from conventional hydraulic brakes to advanced anti-lock braking systems (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) that are heavily integrated with vehicle computer systems.
- Engine Performance: Master the art and science of engine performance tuning and diagnostics. This section delves into how computer systems manage engine functions, and how to use diagnostic software to optimize performance and troubleshoot issues.
- Steering and Suspension: Explore the mechanics and electronics of steering and suspension systems, including electronically controlled steering and suspension systems that require computer diagnostic tools for proper servicing.
- Automatic Transmission/Transaxles: Understand the complexities of automatic transmissions and transaxles, many of which are now electronically controlled. Learn to diagnose and repair these sophisticated systems using computer interfaces.
- Engine Repair: Develop hands-on skills in engine repair, complemented by knowledge of engine management systems and the computer diagnostics needed for modern engine work.
- Climate Control: Learn to service and repair vehicle climate control systems, including the electronic controls and sensors that regulate heating and air conditioning.
- Manual Drivetrains: Gain expertise in manual drivetrains, and understand how even these systems interact with other vehicle electronics.
- Diesel Fuel Systems: Study diesel fuel systems and their unique diagnostic requirements, including the computer-controlled aspects of modern diesel engines.
- Alternative Fuels: Explore the technology and servicing of vehicles utilizing alternative fuels, an increasingly important area in the automotive industry, and understand the specific computer diagnostic needs of these vehicles.
Wake Tech’s Manufacturing programs further enhance the learning experience.
Information Sessions and Admissions
To learn more about the Automotive Systems Technology program, Wake Tech regularly holds information sessions:
- Information Sessions: Stay informed about upcoming information sessions. Please refer to the official Wake Tech website for the most current schedule. Typically, sessions are held in the evening and hosted at both Scott Northern Wake Campus (Building R) and Southern Wake Campus (Building P).
Register for information session
Admissions Process
Enrollment in the Automotive Systems Technology programs is limited to ensure a high-quality learning experience for all students. You can apply for entry in either the Fall or Spring semester. The admissions process includes the following steps:
- Complete Wake Tech’s Admission Application: Apply online through the Wake Tech website and follow all instructions. This includes submitting your high school and any college transcripts and specifying the program code for Automotive Systems Technology in your application.
- Placement Tests: Schedule and take placement tests for English and math. You may be exempt from placement tests based on prior coursework or test scores – check the Wake Tech website to see if you are exempt.
- Advisor Meeting: Meet with an academic advisor to review your placement test results and discuss your academic plan.
- Department Head Meeting: Schedule a meeting with the Automotive Systems Technology department head to confirm your program codes, discuss your chosen pathway within the program, and address any specific questions you might have.
- Start Date Confirmation: Find out your official program start date. In cases where your chosen program is currently full, the department head can advise you on relevant general education courses you can take while waiting for an opening in the Automotive Systems Technology program.
