Getting started For information about our programs, contact any of the following:   Bob Biesiedzinski, Interim Director (206) 546-6970 auto@shoreline.edu   Bob Biesiedzinski/Honda (206) 546-6970 bbiesied@shoreline.edu   Ken Campbell/Chrysler (206) 546-5844 kcampbel@shoreline.edu   Mark Hankins/GST (206) 546-4758 mhankins@shoreline.edu   Scott Main/GM ASEP (206) 546-4784 smain@shoreline.edu   Matt Spitzer/Toyota (206) 533-6793 mspitzer@shoreline.edu

The Professional Automotive Training Center at Shoreline Community College is the premier automotive technician program in the U.S.  The PATC and its industry partners originated this innovative model that integrates education with hands-on workplace experience.

 

Every student in one of the four factory-sponsored programs is sponsored by a local automobile dealership.  Students are in a cycle of 11 weeks (one academic quarter) at the PATC, then 11 weeks in their dealership throughout the two-year program.  Students can graduate with a two-year Applied Associate in Arts and Sciences degree as well as numerous manufacturer-specific training certificates.

 

The General Service Technician (GST) program is a shorter, non-manufacturer specific program.  GST students attend two quarters at the PATC followed by one quarter in a workplace setting. GST students receive a certificate of proficiency.

 

Career Opportunities 

Today's automotive technician is not just a "mechanic." The electronic and mechanical sophistication of today's vehicles, along with hybrids and full-electric vehicles, means these jobs are highly technical.

A U.S. Dept of Labor study predicts that need for automotive technicians will continue to grow "even through downturns in the economy."

The average Automotive Technician salary for the region ranges from $50,000 to $52,000, depending on location and the individual's production abilities.  Often, technicians move into other areas of the automotive industry, including parts, sales, finance and insurance, management, and marketing.

 

Because the PATC program is so closely tied to the industry, the job-placement rate for PATC graduates is high, approaching 100 percent.

 

What you need to be accepted into one of the Automotive programs:

• Instructor permission
• Valid Driver's License
• Minimum COMPASS test scores in Pre-Algebra (35-54), Writing (79-100), Reading (85-100) or placement into ENG 101
• Automotive Skills tests
• Proof of insurability
• Many dealers require drug testing