3 Best Auto Mechanic Schools in Portland, OR

Portland Community College (PCC) is the largest post-secondary institution in Oregon, serving more than 50,000 students each school year.

It was established in 1961 to provide quality education to enrich diversity, equity, and inclusion.

In 1971, it became an independent entity and changed its name to its current name.

PCC has evolved into a dynamic institution supporting student success, sustainability, and economic development.

The school offers diverse programs in career tech, ESOL, pre-college, and transfer programs, making it a vital role in Portland’s educational and economic landscape.

Its diverse student body runs across various programs, with 61% engaged in transfer programs, 23% in career tech, and 7% in pre-college courses.

PCC’s commitment to accessibility emphasizes its mixed on-campus and remote learning options, providing flexibility to meet the evolving needs of the students and community.

About The Auto Mechanic Program

PCC offers an Associate Degree in Automotive Service Technology that spans two years and a Certificate in Automotive Service Technology that spans two years.

The program equips students with the expertise to troubleshoot and solve vehicle electrical and mechanical issues.

It is accredited by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF).

It offers flexibility, cutting-edge knowledge, and industry best practices.

Here are the course highlights:

• Students will prepare for ASE certification exams.
• Students will develop essential skills, including basic arithmetic, effective communication, diagnostic processes, organization, and equipment operation.
• The program emphasizes reading and research skills for utilizing repair manuals and specifications.

Upon completion, graduates can explore various roles, including Automotive Technician, Brake Specialist, Exhaust Specialist, Shop Supervisor, and more.

Mt. Hood Community College is a public community college in Gresham, established in 1966.

It offers over 120 professional and technical programs, including various university transfer programs, preparing students for jobs today and tomorrow.

It serves approximately 18,000 students annually, with its campuses in Gresham, Maywood Park, a public school within the district, and Bruning Center for Allied Health Education.

The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities accredited the school, funded by state reimbursement funds, students’ tuition, and local property tax revenue.

Its main goal is to remain accessible to an ever-increasing population with diverse needs.

About The Auto Mechanic Program

Mt Hood Community College’s Automotive Technology programs offer comprehensive education from essential maintenance to advanced engine diagnostics.

The Maintenance and Light Repair program covers fundamental procedures, while the Ford ASSET, Chrysler MCAP, IMPORT, and Subaru U programs provide in-depth, two-year degree options.

Here are the highlights of the program:

Ford ASSET:

Designed for individuals interested in automotive careers.
Two-year commitment with terms in fall, winter, spring, and summer.

Chrysler MCAP:

Provides work experience while training service technicians for Chrysler dealerships. It encompasses Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram vehicles.

IMPORT:

Two-year automotive curriculum for incoming technicians at dealerships or repair facilities.

Subaru U:

Subaru University Associate of Applied Science Degree program.
Offers work experience and training for service technicians at Subaru dealerships.

These programs ensure that students receive comprehensive education and practical training to prepare them for diverse roles in the automotive industry.

Clackamas Community College started with 693 part-time students at Gladstone High School, established in 1966.

In 1968, it began to construct the Clairmont Building on the Oregon City Campus, which became its permanent campus and expanded significantly.

Over the years, it has grown to three campuses catering to a student body of more than 25,000, with over 1,3000 classes offered each term.

It also embraced distance learning in 1997, accommodating 1,722 in the fall of 2005, and is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

The school offers various services for distance learners, including academic advising, a bookstore, e-mail services, and financial aid.

It also provides diverse undergraduate courses encompassing accounting, computer science, biology, criminal justice, and more.

Its rich history and commitment to accessible education made it a cornerstone for a dynamic student community.

About The Auto Mechanic Program

Automotive Service Technology at Clackamas Community College offers an associate degree and certificate:

• Automatic Transmission – Certificate
• Automotive Service Technology Program – AAS

The Automatic Transmission – Certificate is under the Car Technician Career Pathway.

It is designed for nine months of immediate entry-level employment as an automotive service technician.

It prepares students for ASE certifications and American Welding Association certification.

Students can also earn credits to apply to CCC’s associate’s degree program.

The Automotive Service Technology Program – AAS spans two years.

It equips students with skills and knowledge in repairing cars and light trucks.

The program covers front-end repair, alignment, brake servicing, engine repair, and system diagnosis.

It also includes service shop management, technical math, welding, and general education.

Upon completing the program, students can also continue advanced classes for specialization in specific automotive service areas.