Jul 13, 2012

Auto Tech accreditation

The Automotive Technology program at Central Lakes College in Brainerd is now accredited by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation. Instructor Ray Johnson (shown) received a certification plaque and letter acknowledging that the quality of training offered at CLC meets criteria for high standards of program content. The standards pertain to tasks, tools and equipment, hours, and instructor qualifications. Program standards are developed based on Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) task lists and are designed to bring training programs to a level at which participants are properly trained for entry level into the industry.
Once a training program meets the established standards and goes through the accreditation process, it can be accredited as a program that actually teaches technicians to today’s industry standards.
More than 350,000 professionals, including graduates of Central Lakes College, hold ASE certifications and work in every part of the automotive service industry.
“Today’s successful technician must possess an array of workplace skills,” said Johnson. “And a unique blend of academic and technical skills. We take pride in focusing on professionalism and working toward technical expertise.”
NATEF reports that professional automotive technicians can earn $50,000 or more per year and are in demand across the country. There are unlimited opportunities for those who want to work with advanced computerized control systems and the latest diagnostic equipment.
Automotive Technology at Central Lakes College currently is an 11-month, 44-credit diploma program.