Porter and Chester Institute (PCI) offers an Automotive Technology (auto tech) program that can be completed in 12 months. This program is offered at Bridgeport, Hamden, Rocky Hill, and Waterbury, Connecticut and Brockton, Chicopee and Worcester Massachusetts. The Worcester campus, is piloting curriculum enhancements which include hybrid and electrical vehicle training.

In the program, students will learn skills such as:

• How to diagnose, repair, and maintain most vehicle makes and models
• How to diagnose and repair major vehicle components
• Hybrid and electric vehicle training (currently only available at the Worcester, MA campus)
• How to maintain vehicle performance
• Preparation to work in an independent service and repair center or a new car dealership

There are also different jobs that may be available to individuals who graduate from the auto tech program. These could include:

• Automotive Service Technician
• Automotive Glass Repairers and Installers
• Automotive Sales and Management
• Light Vehicle and Mobile Equipment Service Technicians
• Automotive Parts Specialist

What does an automotive technician do? Within the field, there are several skills that a person could use on a regular basis:

• Inspect vehicles for safety or worn items
• Provide scheduled maintenance to keep vehicles working efficiently
• Repair or replace basic car parts (brakes, steering wheels, engines, etc.)
• Diagnose and repair automotive electrical systems
• Perform automotive maintenance tasks (checking fluid levels, rotating tires, changing oil fluids, etc.)
• Diagnose and repair emission control systems
• Organize tools and various car parts
• Provide detailed estimates for repairs

If you think the Automotive Technology program would be a good fit for you, learn more at the program description page. If you’re ready to get started, visit the online application portal to enroll.