MOPAR

The philosophies of the Professional Automotive Training Center at Shoreline Community College and the MOPAR College Automotive Program (MCAP) are simple and the same: to develop the best-trained force in the automotive industry to work on some of the hottest, most technologically advanced vehicles on and off the road.

With regular rotations between class time and on-site training at sponsoring Chrysler Group dealerships under the direction of a master technician, this programs gives students the technical training and skills and the overall education that can make for a solid career with a great paycheck.

MCAP graduates earn a two-year, Associate in Applied Arts & Sciences (AAAS) degree from Shoreline Community College, which is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Industry connected

MCAP and Shoreline work closely together to train students utilizing Chrysler-specific automotive diagnostic processes and repair procedures to develop the skills necessary to be successful Chrysler Group technicians.

Students benefit from receiving specific Chrysler Group training with the latest vehicle technology, diagnostic equipment and service information. That focus leads to higher job-placement at Chrysler Group dealerships and earning potential after graduation.

The dealership benefits come from having a source of well-trained and motivated technicians to fill the numerous positions being made available as a result of an aging technician workforce and also the growth of the automotive service business.

Shoreline's MCAP program stays connected to the dealers and the manufacturer through the MOPAR-CAP Professional/Technical Advisory Committee. The committee included dealers, technicians and Chrysler representatives to make sure graduates meet the needs of employers

Learn and earn

Alternating quarters between classroom instruction and paid dealership training allows students to get familiar with the work environment and begin earning money while in school.

Get a career

For students who complete this program, the job-placement rate for this program is 100 percent. Upon completion, graduates are hired often by the sponsoring dealership. With an aging workforce, the employment forecast for dealer trained technicians should remain strong over the next decade.

Primary employment is as a Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep service technician.  With additional experience, other potential positions include parts or service managers, sales, management or open own related business. Average salaries for the region range from $50,000 to $52,000, depending on location and the individual's production abilities. For employment outlook, see the U.S. Dept. of Labor Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Getting into MCAP

• Instructor permission
• Accuplacer placement testing
• Automotive Skills tests
• Valid Driver's License
• Proof of insurability
• Many dealers require drug testing
• Instructor interview

Program costs

Besides normal quarterly college tuition and fees, students may pay a uniform fee, additional instructor fees, books and tools that can vary. Contact the program for more information.