Are you an explorer of vehicle technology and like working with your hands?
Becoming an auto mechanic might be a good fit for you.
Today’s vehicle has 30 microprocessors on board, and as technology and electronics continue to evolve, they also influence the automotive industry.
Many independent repair shops and automobile dealers will need skilled technicians to solve complex and new problems in today’s vehicles.
Earn your accredited, affordable Auto Repair career diploma online with Penn Foster in as little as 4 months!
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Becoming an automotive technician is simple; you only need to attend training for less than a year to acquire skills and certificates.
You can also further your studies to acquire an associate degree in Automotive Technology for two years of managerial roles.
If you’re in Chicago, IL, check out these schools offering auto mechanic programs.
Explore and kickstart your automotive journey now!
1 HARRY S TRUMAN COLLEGE
Harry S Truman College became vital to Chicago’s Uptown neighborhood in 1976, providing innovative, high-quality, and affordable education.
It was founded in 1956 as an evening college at Amundsen High School on Foster Avenue in response to the need for a two-year college in Chicago’s northside.
Truman College is also part of the City Colleges of Chicago.
It was designated to provide education in human and natural sciences in 2014.
It combines certificates and associate degrees for those first entering their education profession and continuing education for professionals.
The school also offers free English as a Second Language and HiSET/GED programs aside from college credit classes.
About The Auto Mechanic Program
Truman College’s Automotive Technology Program is certified by the ASE Education Foundation.
It equips students with the skills needed for dynamic and thriving careers in the automotive industry.
The program provides students with the educational foundation and practical experiences required for entry-level careers in the automotive industry.
Here’s the program overview:
- Basic Certificate (5 Courses): Dive into foundational courses like AUTOTEC 101, 103, 104, 109, and 209.
- Advanced Certificate (11 Courses): Explore all AUTOTEC courses to gain expertise and mastery.
- Associates in Applied Science (18 Courses): Elevate your knowledge with a comprehensive curriculum, including all AUTOTEC courses and 7 General Education Courses.
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) approves the program.
It offers eligible students up to $8,000 for tuition, fees, books, and essential support services.
If you’re seeking a Bachelor’s Degree, the school also partners with Southern Illinois University-Carbondale.
You can attend weekend classes at Truman College campus and earn your BS in Automotive Technology.
Address: 1145 West Wilson Ave Chicago, IL 60640
2 Universal Technical Institute
UTI Lisle, Illinois, is a 107,629-square-foot trade school with 56 classrooms and labs.
It offers 6 core programs and 6 specialized training programs preparing students for careers in fields with strong demand.
The core program offering includes Automotive, Welding, Diesel, Wind Turbines, Industrial Maintenance, and Robotics and Automation.
Students will experience practical training in hands-on labs guided by dedicated instructors with valuable industry expertise sought by today’s employers.
UTI helps students to have the resources to prepare and achieve their goals by partnering with Collegiate Housing Services to help relocating students find affordable shared or individual housing near campus.
It also assists students in finding part-time jobs and identifying scholarships, grants, and other financial assistance options to support qualified students with their finances.
About The Auto Mechanic Program
UTI Lisle offers a range of degrees and certification programs in Automotive Technology.
Completing Automotive training equips students to take the exams necessary for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification.
The training can substitute for one of the two years of work experience required for certification.
Here are some of the topics covered in the program:
- Automotive Engines Service & Repair
- Vehicle Electronic Systems & Technology
- Professional Automotive Service Writing
- Vehicle Steering & Suspension Service & Repair
- Automotive Powertrains & Transmissions
- Automotive Climate Control Systems & Repair
- Vehicle Brake Systems
- Advanced Technology/Hybrid & Service Advising
- Automotive Power/Performance & Emissions Repair
Students can also enroll in additional specialized training, which is available for those seeking an edge in the industry.
Upon completion, students can earn manufacturer-specific certifications by opting for programs like Ford FACT or Toyota TPAT.
Address: 2611 Corporate West Drive Lisle, IL 60532
3 Lincoln Tech
Lincoln Tech in Melrose Park, IL, has been a cornerstone of the community for more than a century.
It is formerly known as Greer College of Automotive Engineering since its establishment in 1902 and joined Lincoln Tech schools in 1969.
The school has state-of-the-art facilities with 90,000 square feet of training space, labs, classrooms, collision workshops, and auto shops for an immersive learning environment.
It also has sixteen auto bays, nine lifts, drive-in classrooms, an Auto Web Tech Lab, and individual welding booths stocked by Miller Electric.
Lincoln Tech provides hands-on training in a fully wired smart house, simulating real-world scenarios for Electrical and Electronic Systems Technology students.
It offers automotive service technology, electrical and electronic systems technology, medical assistance, and welding technology.
About The Auto Mechanic Program
Lincoln Tech’s Melrose Park Automotive Technology Training shapes careers for auto technicians within 120 years.
The campus has cutting-edge facilities that provide students with hands-on experience.
It allows them to practice diagnostic techniques, troubleshoot issues, and master repair and maintenance tasks for today’s diverse range of vehicles.
Here are the programs Lincoln Tech’s Melrose Park offers :
- Automotive Service Technology: A diploma in Automotive Service Technology focusing on automotive repair.
- Associate’s Degree in Automotive Service Management Technology: Equipping students for management roles in the automotive service industry.
- BMW Fastrack Program: A specialized training for the BMW Fastrack program after graduation, enhancing student’s expertise.
The campus instructors are ASE-certified and bring real-world experience to the classrooms, ensuring students receive top-notch training.
Address: 8317 W. North Avenue Melrose Park, IL 60160
4 Curie Metro High School
Curie Metro High School is a public magnet high school in Chicago’s Archer Heights, named after Nobel laureate Marie Sklodowska–Curie.
It offers Technical, Performing Arts, and International Baccalaureate programs and is part of the Chicago Public Schools district.
At Curie Metropolitan High School, they are dedicated to delivering a challenging academic curriculum focusing on technology and the arts.
It enriches college and career readiness to encourage students to pursue post-secondary education.
The school provides authentic learning experiences to build a life-long learning foundation.
Its mission is to prepare students to become leaders and responsible e citizens in a global society and contribute positively to their community.
Curie teachers compassionately work together to support students socially, emotionally, and physically, encouraging them to achieve their career goals.
About The Auto Mechanic Program
Curie offers Automotive Technology where students will dive into computerized diagnostics, traditional tool usage, and comprehensive vehicle repair.
The program equips students with skills for national certifications, entry-level employment, or higher education in Automotive Technology.
Here are the Automotive courses Curie offers:
10th Grade – Automotive Tech I
Explore essential topics, including tool usage, basic car maintenance, tire and wheel principles, electricity fundamentals, digital multimeters, and diagnosis and repairs of various vehicle systems.
11th Grade – Automotive Tech II
Advance your understanding with topics such as general engine diagnosis, computerized engine control systems, ignition systems, fuel, air, and exhaust systems diagnostics, emissions control, brake services, hydraulic systems, electrical diagnostics, and anti-lock brakes.
12th Grade – Automotive Tech III
Complete the sequence by mastering suspension and steering system diagnosis, wheel alignment, service shop operations, and post-secondary preparation for study and employment.
Upon completion, students will earn up to 5 industry-recognized credentials.
It includes Snap On Multimeter NC3, ASE End of Program Brakes, ASE End of Program Steering and Suspension, ASE End of Program Electrical, and ASE End of Program Engine Performance.
Address: 4959 South Archer Avenue, Chicago, IL 60632
5 College of DuPage
College of DuPage (COD) was established in 1967, as a public community college with a broad impact through community support to strive and keep up with the demands and needs of an evolving world.
It is the second-largest provider of undergraduate education serving 48 communities and 36 public and private high schools in Illinois next to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
COD faculties and the Board of Trustees maintain relevance at all levels including academic, interpersonal, civic, cultural, and economic to fulfill its mission as an educational and economic agent of change.
The college serves more than 20, 000 students annually offering 150 plus areas of studies and 177 plus certificate programs.
About The Auto Mechanic Program
College of DuPage’s Automotive Service Technology program is a comprehensive education and hands-on experience in diagnosing and repairing passenger cars, SUVs, and light trucks.
It covers suspension systems, transmissions, engine design, electrical systems, emissions, and hybrid vehicle technology, and students develop essential skills.
Here are the programs COD offers:
Master Automotive Service Technology:
This AAS degree program readies students for the automotive repair industry or seamless transfer to a four-year university.
Entry Level Automotive Service Technology Certificate:
Ideal for entry-level careers, this certificate program equips students with foundational knowledge and skills, preparing them for ASE Tests.
Master Automotive Service Technology Advanced Certificate:
This advanced certificate covers both foundational and advanced automotive systems, ensuring graduates are prepared for ASE Tests.
Automotive Service Management Certificate:
Focusing on service management and advisor skills, this certificate program covers repair orders, customer service, safety compliance, and general shop management.
It also has an advanced-level course for professionals including topics like Automotive Body Electricity, Advanced Automotive Drivetrains, and Hybrid Technology.
Address: 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
6 Morton College
Morton College is the second-oldest public community college in Illinois, founded in 1924.
It is named after Julius Sterling Morton, a politician serving as President Grover Cleveland’s Secretary of Agriculture and a newspaper editor.
It was established to meet the educational demands in Cicero, Forest View, Berwyn, McCook, Lyons, and the nearest western suburbs.
The college is one of the 39 community colleges in Illinois operated by Community College District 527 and governed by an elected Board of Trustees.
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), it offers 36 Career Certificates, 14 Associate in Applied Science Degrees, and 5 Transfer Program Degrees.
The school ensures an affordable and supportive learning environment to help students achieve their academic and life goals.
About The Auto Mechanic Program
Morton College offers a top-tier auto technician program to provide students with a competitive edge in the automotive industry.
Students can gain expertise and master the diagnosis and repair of modern vehicles using cutting-edge testing and diagnostic equipment.
The program blends classroom studies with hands-on training to provide a well-rounded approach to mastering automotive skills.
Here are some of the courses included in the program:
- Automotive Engine Design
- Automotive Brakes
- Fuel Systems and Emission Controls
- Automatic Transmissions
- Automotive Air Conditioning
- Manual Transmissions and Transaxles
- Automotive Electric Systems
- Automotive Computer Systems
- Steering and Suspension
- Engine Performance
- Heating and Air Conditioning and more
The program will help students prepare for certification exams by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).
Address: 3801 S. Central Avenue Cicero, IL 60804
7 McHenry County College
McHenry County College (MCC) was established in 1967 through a referendum passage and is the 28th community college in Illinois.
As one of the Aspen Institute’s top 150 community colleges, MCC has become the county’s hub for higher education and lifelong learning.
It offers certificate programs, associate degree programs, and applied science degrees for career training.
CNN Money and College Measures recognize the school as the fourth in the states for student success rates, attributed to its affordability.
MCC also offers Occupational Programs, Workforce and Economic Development, Community and Career Training, Free adult education: ESL, High School Equivalency Exam Preparation or General Education Development (GED), and Community Outreach.
About The Auto Mechanic Program
MCC offers various programs in Automotive Technology.
Students will benefit from the cutting-edge learning environment with state-of-the-art automotive labs.
The program approach is beyond traditional instruction with hands-on experiences performing live automobile jobs to ensure practical skills development.
Here are the programs MCC offers:
- Automotive Technology AAS
- Automotive Technology AAS – Management Option
- Automotive Maintenance Technician Certificate
- Automotive Technician Certificate, Advanced
- Automotive Chassis Certificate
- Automotive Electrical Certificate
The school actively collaborates with local business owners and educators, seeking advisory input.
It ensures the programs are regularly updated and closely aligned with the industry’s evolving needs.
It also offers an internship program to provide valuable real-world exposure to enhance their practical skills.
Address: 8900 US Hwy 14, Crystal Lake, Illinois 60012-2761
8 Prosser Career Academy
Prosser Career Academy, formerly known as Charles A. Prosser Vocational High School, is a public 4-year vocational high school in Chicago’s Belmont Cragin neighborhood.
Established in 1959 and operated by the Chicago Public Schools district, Prosser initially enrolled only males, later welcoming females in the 1975-76 school year.
It is named after Charles Allen Prosser, an education pioneer in vocational education.
The school offers a diverse curriculum and students transition from the Freshman Academy in their first year.
Prosser emphasizes core values, believing in the capability of all students for academic and social-emotional success, fostering diversity, encouraging innovation, promoting collaboration, and ensuring a supportive environment.
It aims to provide a dynamic learning environment preparing students for success while envisioning continuous improvement and becoming a premier CTE/IB school in Chicago to enrich professionalism, productivity, and creativity, and embrace changes for a better future.
About The Auto Mechanic Program
Prosser Career Academy Automotive Technology program provides students with hands-on experiences.
The program covers building and repairing engines to offer practical skills essential for a career in the automotive industry.
With Mr. Navarro’s guidance, the program focuses on real-world learning to ensure every student gains valuable insights into the intricacies of engine construction and maintenance.
It also offers an opportunity for students to visit airports and engage themselves in the practical aspects of engine development.
They will explore the processes involved in building and maintaining the engines of American Airlines aircraft.
This approach will enhance students’ technical knowledge and also deepen their understanding of the automotive field preparing them for a successful automotive career in the future.
Address: 2148 N Long Avenue, Chicago, IL 60639
9 Triton College
Triton College was founded in 1964 and is a public community college.
It is one of the 48 community colleges in Illinois operating under the Illinois Community College Board and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The school offers exceptional educational value in a student-centered setting.
It includes cultural resources, academic, and engaging social activities, and career-oriented learning opportunities.
Triton has an affordable tuition and open admission policy making it more accessible post-secondary education to the district’s residents.
It offers more than 150 associate and certificate programs with new educational services developing to meet the district residents’ and employers’ needs.
Triton’s career program will instill in students with skills needed in a highly competitive job market, while its continuing education will prepare students to enter workforce development and lifelong learning.
About The Auto Mechanic Program
Triton College’s Automotive Technology Program stands out for its exceptional offerings and services.
It provides various associate degree options, including the highly sought-after Automotive Technology Degree.
Students seeking rapid skill enhancement can opt for two-semester certificate programs focusing on transmission repair, engine performance, or brakes.
The program holds certifications from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence and accreditation from the National Automotive Technician Education Foundation (NATEF).
It ensures alignment with industry standards and the latest automotive technologies.
It also provides unique opportunities through partnership programs with industry giants like General Motors and Honda Acura.
Sponsored by local dealerships, students in these programs have the advantage of earning while they learn.
It combines classroom education at Triton with practical experience in the service departments of their sponsoring partners.
Address: 2000 Fifth Ave River Grove, IL 60171
10 Moraine Valley Community College
Moraine Valley Community College was established in 1967 under a voter referendum.
It provides an affordable high-quality education within its area of residents.
Over the years, it has grown consistently and become one of the largest state colleges in Illinois, resulting in learning and service space expansion serving 26 communities.
The college aims to educate individuals within a learning-centered environment to share responsibilities, to the community and the world.
It is committed to continuous improvements and innovation to provide affordable, accessible, and diverse learning environments and opportunities.
Moraine ensures students gain skills and knowledge with its more than 130 programs, cutting-edge facilities, expert faculty, and vibrant campus culture.
About The Auto Mechanic Program
Moraine Valley offers two Associate in Applied Science programs: Automotive Technology A.A.S. and Automotive Technology A.A.S. with Mopar MCAP Option.
The latter involves a full-time apprenticeship program focusing on Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep and Ram products and procedures.
Students can gain hands-on experience at approved dealerships and receive a certificate from the Chrysler Group upon completing the program.
The program blends classroom and lab environments emphasizing practical learning in real-world settings under the guidance of ASE-certified instructors.
The curriculum covers the following certificates:
- Automotive Climate Control Technician
- Automotive Service Technician
- Automotive Service Advisor
- Brake and Chassis Technician
- Drivetrain Technician
- Engine Driveability Technician
It also hosts the Nissan Technician Training Academy (NTTA) to offer specialized training on Nissan and/or Infiniti vehicles for those aspiring to work in Nissan or Infiniti dealerships.
The program holds Master Automobile Service Technology (MAST) certification from the ASE Education Foundation, ensuring national recognition and alignment with industry standards.
Address: 9000 W. College Pkwy. Palos Hills, IL 60465-2478
11 Joliet Junior College
Joliet Junior College (JJC) is in the south Chicago suburbs and had its humble beginnings at Joliet Township High School, serving only six students in 1901.
Over the years, it eventually transformed into a legacy lasting for more than a century and is recognized as the first community college in the United States.
It grows into six campuses and education centers, serving approximately 27,000 students each year. JCC offers affordable tuition rates, financial assistance opportunities, and a $750,000 scholarship grant each year.
It offers 180-plus degrees and certificates in Agricultural Sciences & Veterinary Technology, Architecture, Manufacturing & Automotive, Business, Finance & Information Technology, STEM, Workforce & Training, and more.
About The Auto Mechanic Program
Joliet Junior College’s Automotive Service Technology Program offers an Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree and various certificates.
It ensures students are well-prepared for diverse careers within the automotive field.
Students can benefit from hands-on experience in a state-of-the-art facility equipped with modern tools and technology.
The program has 500 hours dedicated to repairing actual customer vehicles, students gain valuable work experience while using school-owned tools.
Here are the degrees and certificates students will earn in the program:
- Automotive Service Technology, A.A.S.
- Automotive Service Technology, Certificate of Achievement
- Automotive Service Technology (Advanced), Certificate of Achievement
- Automotive Driveline Specialist
- Automotive Engine Performance Specialist
- Brake and Chassis Specialist
- Diesel Maintenance Specialist
- Hybrid & Electric Vehicle Specialist
The program is accredited by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) and holds the NATEF Master certification
Address: 1215 Houbolt Road, Joliet IL, 60431
12 Oakton Community College
Oakton Community College was established in 1969 and had its first classes in 1970 with 832 students from the northern suburbs of Chicago.
Its mission is to be the community’s college and serve District 535, offering quality, accessible education empowering students, and transforming their lives.
The college’s strategic plans determine its positive force impact in creating a more equitable world to support students and catalyze success within its neighboring communities and beyond.
It serves 17 communities with 450,000 residents and 100-plus company partnerships to create more internships, corporate training, and job placement.
Oakton offers 150 plus academic degree and certificate programs, including 100 options to complete in a year or less.
As the college grows, it gains recognition as the third community college in the 48 powerhouse colleges in the Illinois Community College System.
About The Auto Mechanic Program
Oakton’s Automotive Technology program is a comprehensive training for entry-level technicians.
- The program offers various areas including:
- Associate in Applied Science Degree (A.A.S.)
- Automotive Under Car (Certification)
- Automotive Technology (Certification)
- Automotive Technology Powertrain (Certification)
- Automotive Electrical Systems (Certification)
- Automotive Engines (Certification)
- Automotive Engine Performance and Emissions (Certification)
- Automotive Heating and Air Conditioning (Certification)
- Automotive Transmission and Powertrain (Certification)
Classes schedules are day and evening and students can complete the program within three semesters to accommodate student’s commitments outside the class.
The Automotive Service Excellence Educational Foundation (ASEEF) accredits the program for meeting the rigorous standards in the Automotive Service field.
Address: 1600 Golf Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60016,
13 Prairie State College
Prairie State College in Chicago Heights is part of the Illinois Community College District 515, established in 1957.
It was formerly a Bloom Township Junior College, renamed to its current name in 1976 and evolved over the years, contributing significantly to the region’s educational landscape.
Prairie State College is committed to delivering quality education.
The campus offers various degrees and certificates across 95 programs, emphasizing flexibility and diverse options for nearly 12,010 students.
Its campus spans 137 acres at South Halsted Street and Vollmer Road and features state-of-the-art facilities.
It includes the main campus, the north campus, and various centers dedicated to specialized education.
Prairie State College provides transfer majors, offering associate degrees that seamlessly prepare students for transitions to four-year colleges and universities.
As a pioneer in credit transfer assurance, the college guarantees the transferability of credits, aligning with the Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI).
About The Auto Mechanic Program
Prairie State College offers two Automotive Technology program options:
- Automotive Services Technology Certificate
- Automotive Technology Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)
The Automotive Services Technology Certificate covers the following areas: automotive servicing, repair, engine testing, and shop management.
It prepares students with a holistic foundation for entering the automotive industry.
The Automotive Technology A.A.S. degree balances theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
It covers the following areas: automatic transmission and transaxles, brakes, electrical/electronic systems, engine performance, engine repair, heating and air conditioning, manual drive train and axles, and suspension.
Both programs emphasize hands-on experience.
Students will work on real-world automotive issues using specialized diagnostic equipment.
The faculty, accredited facilities, and industry certifications ensure that graduates are well-prepared to enter the automotive workforce.
It is also certified by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) and the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).
Address: 202 S Halsted St, Chicago Heights, IL 60411
14 College of Lake County
College of Lake County (CLC) is a pillar of education and a dedicated institution to nurture students’ success and transform their bright futures.
Since its inception in 1969 over 400,000 students have passed its diverse academic options, convenient locations, intimate class settings, and exceptional value.
The college’s primary campus is in Grayslake and additional campuses are in Waukegan and Vernon Hills.
It offers career programs, transfer programs, adult basic education or GED, business training and career development, and non-credit courses catering to 15,000 students annually.
CLC’s advantage is in its affordable offerings of education, with over $30,000 in tuition and fees students can save for two years of degrees before pursuing bachelor’s degrees in universities.
It emphasizes a student-centric approach, ensuring personal attention and feedback and valuing individuals over numbers.
About The Auto Mechanic Program
CLC’s Automotive Technology blends traditional mechanical skills with cutting-edge technological expertise.
It provides students with a comprehensive understanding of modern automotive systems.
Students can earn a career certificate in a year or less to enter the workforce immediately and an A.A.S. degree in two years, gaining technical and job-ready skills.
Here are the programs CLC offers:
- Master Automotive Service Technology – A.A.S Degree
- Automotive Lube Tech Specialist – Certificate
- Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair – Certificate
- General Automotive Service Technician – Certificate
- Master Automotive Service Technology – Certificate
Students can also earn credits if they want to further their studies to earn a bachelor’s degree in pre-arranged agreements in institutions like Southern Illinois University or Ferris State University (Michigan).
CLC’s program holds Master Certification (MAST) by the ASE Education Foundation. It ensures students receive top-notch training and education, meeting the highest industry standards.
Address: 19351 W. Washington St. Grayslake, IL 60030
15 Olive-Harvey College
Olive-Harvey College is the result of two separate colleges merging after consolidation in 1970, the Fenger and Southeast Junior Colleges.
It is named after Vietnam War heroes PFC Milton Lee Olive III and Carmel Bernon Harvey Jr, honoring their bravery and sacrifices.
The school is dedicated to providing high-quality education programs and support services for students pursuing GEDS, ESL, certificates, and degrees.
Over the years, Olive-Harvey College has grown and earned the title of the Center of Excellence in Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics (TDL).
It focuses on the region’s fast-growing industry with a new $45 million TDL facility under construction.
TDL specializes in transportation such as air, rail, and road, and equips students with fundamental skills essential for the industry’s demands.
Olive-Harvey College remains dedicated to fostering excellence in education and preparing students for success in the dynamic world of transportation, distribution, and logistics.
About The Auto Mechanic Program
Olive-Harvey College offers an Advanced Certificate (AC) and an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Automotive Technology.
The core of the program delves into essential aspects of automotive technology, ensuring that students acquire a well-rounded understanding of the field.
Here are some of the courses included in the program:
- Introduction to Automotive Technology
- Engine Concepts
- Electrical Systems & Power Accessories
- Automotive Brakes
- Steering & Suspension Systems
The program’s emphasis is on hands-on learning, coupled with theoretical knowledge.
It ensures that graduates emerge as adept automotive technicians, ready to navigate the challenges of the ever-evolving automotive industry.
Address: 10001 South Woodlawn Ave Chicago, IL 60628
16 Kennedy-King College
Kennedy-King College is an institution for higher education, established in 1934 as Woodrow Wilson Junior College.
Established under the Great Depression and the closure of Crane Junior College, it endures and named Wilson becoming a hub for intellectual growth and community impact.
The college underwent a significant transformation during the civil rights movements of the 1960s.
In 1969, responding to student protests and honoring the legacies of U.S. Senator Robert F. Kennedy and Dr. Martin L. King, Jr., the college was renamed Kennedy-King College.
It offers various associate degrees, certificates, and free adult education classes.
It includes Culinary, Hospitality, and Construction Technology, where collaboration with industry experts ensures students are workforce-ready.
The Adult Education program enhances economic mobility through high school equivalency and ELL instruction.
Kennedy-King College earned various recognition including the Top 50 community colleges in America by Washington Monthly Magazine in 2013.
It was also a top-10 finalist for the prestigious Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence in September 2014.
The school continues to strive to be one of the best community colleges in Illinois, reflecting its commitment to excellence and community impact.
About The Auto Mechanic Program
Kennedy-King College offers an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in Automotive Technology.
The program blends theory and hands-on experience to prepare students for dynamic careers in the automotive industry.
It opens doors to entry-level positions in automotive dealerships, franchises, repair shops, and auto part stores, or even encourages entrepreneurial ventures.
It covers General Education Requirements with 18 credit hours to provide a well-rounded education.
Here are the 42 credit hours core requirements of the program:
- Fuel Management I- III
- Fuel Systems
- Performance & Drivability
- Auto Service Management
- Manual Drive Train & Axles
- Auto Temperature Control Systems
- Elective Program Requirements: Work-Based Learning, Electrical
- Systems II, and Transmission Transaxle & Dr.
The program emphasizes practical skills to ensure students are well-prepared for real-world challenges in automotive technology.
Address: 6301 South Halsted St Chicago, IL 60621
17 Fast Lane Automotive Training
Fast Lane Automotive Training was founded to improve students’ lives through its hands-on automotive training.
Its program equips students with practical skills and supports them to earn certifications that employers value most.
The training center upholds its commitments through a collaborative and respectful learning community by enriching teamwork with respect.
With its commitment, it empowers to create an environment where students excel.
In collaboration with community organizations, Fast Lane presents an obstacle-free training avenue to pave the way for students ASE Certification.
It has a dedicated team of ASE Certified instructors to ensure that students not only master the course material but also receive unwavering support at every stage of their educational journey.
Beyond education, it also offers assistance with job placement post-training, aiming to open doors for those dedicated to mastering the required skills.
About The Auto Mechanic Program
Fast Lane Automotive Training offers a comprehensive Auto Mechanic Program that prepares students for ASE Certification.
Students will engage in real-world training and have an opportunity to work on actual vehicles to enhance their practical skills.
Moreover, the program goes beyond theoretical learning by sharing real-world automotive insights.
It offers practical insights and industry knowledge that directly apply to the dynamic field.
Here are some of the topics included in the program:
- Automatic Transmissions
- Diesel Engine
- Electric Vehicle (EV)
- Manual Transmission
- Brake System
- Four-Wheel Drive System (4×4)
- Steering & Suspension
- Electrical System
- Heating & Air Conditioning
- Forklift Training
- Gasoline & Hybrid Engine
Fast Lane also emphasizes accessibility, offering obstacle-free training with options like weekly course payments, training on real-world vehicles, and the ability to work on one’s vehicle.
Address: 4235 W. Division Street Chicago, IL 60651
18 Waubonsee Community College
Waubonsee Community College is a public community college established in 1966.
It serves twelve public school districts in the Illinois region with its three campuses in Aurora, Sugar Grove, and Plano.
It also has forty extension sites to provide college credit courses, workshops, business seminars, and youth programs to broaden its educational reach.
Waubonsee commits to flexibility by offering distance learning and video conferencing, connecting academic sites and partnering institutions.
It is also a founding member of the Illinois Virtual Campus and provides over 100 online courses, accommodating diverse student needs.
The college holds accreditation from the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools enriching inclusive environment serving a mix of student bodies of ethnicities and age groups.
About The Auto Mechanic Program
Waubonsee Community College’s Automotive Technology Program is a training initiative that equips students with proficiency across all facets of the automotive repair field.
The program, led by Master ASE Certified faculty members with extensive industry experience, offers two associate degrees and various certificate programs.
It emphasizes hands-on learning, the curriculum focuses on imparting mechanical skills, proper tool usage, and their practical application to vehicles.
The faculty not only teaches theoretical concepts but also draws from real-world expertise.
It also focuses importance of effective communication with customers, instilling confidence and credibility in students as automotive professionals.
The live shop at Waubonsee provides a unique opportunity for students to gain practical experience by working on customer vehicles, aligning with industry expectations for hands-on, problem-based learning.
The program also facilitates educational advancement, with options for students to transfer to four-year institutions like Southern Illinois University (SIU).
It offers an opportunity to broaden students’ career opportunities as industry professionals or as an educator.
Address: Rt. 47 at Waubonsee Dr., Sugar Grove, IL 60554
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