I had the pleasure of presenting DSO training to a group of IVY Tech students in Evansville, Indiana, this month. I greatly appreciated the opportunity to present at this facility. The entire facility is modern and inviting to the future technician.

Ivy Tech Community College Evansville Campus is preparing students for careers in automotive repair. The two-year Associate of Applied Science degree offers skills for a high-value, high-demand field. This school year, there are 90 students enrolled; and historically, over the past five years, enrollment has been as high as 183.

“The Automotive Technology program offers exciting careers and unlimited opportunities,” said Chris Kaufman, program chair. Through the use of equipment that is operated in the automotive industry today and ASE master-certified instructors, students learn how to diagnose and repair today’s high-tech vehicles.

This program prepares students for entry-level employment with companies that require training in areas such as electrical systems, engine performance, transmissions, brakes, steering and suspension systems, air conditioning systems, and engine repair. Students are prepared to take industry standard certification exams from ASE. 

Kaufman explained that students receive hands-on experience on up-to-date repair and diagnostic equipment that is currently used in the automotive field today. Computer usage and skills, along with network communication diagnosis, has become critical to quickly and accurately diagnosis newer automobiles, hybrid and alternative fueled vehicles, and heavy diesel trucks. This hands-on training program allows for lab time to develop the skills needed to be successful in whichever emphasis of study the student chooses.

Industry partners also help to round out a student’s education through internships and campus advisory board recommendations. In any given semester, Ivy Tech has internships at up to 10 locations.

Ivy Tech’s two-year Associate of Applied Science degree program prepares students for careers, career changes, and career advancement. AAS programs may also prepare students for transfer to four-year institutions. The program content, which is approximately 30 percent general education, provides depth and breadth in conceptual and professional/technical skills.

Ivy Tech also offers shorter-term technical certificates and certificates in Automotive Technology. The Technical Certificate in Automotive Technology can be earned at the same time as acquiring the Associate of Applied Science degree. It provides education in conceptual and technical skills. Students learn through Maintenance and Light Repair Automotive Technology, and Chrysler’s MOPAR CAP program of study. A certificate in Diesel Technology is also available.

Certificates are sequences of technical courses that provide access to targeted, short-term work-force training, and graduates are prepared for the workforce and nationally recognized certifications. These programs at Ivy Tech generally take less than one year to complete.

“Local employers seek out Ivy Tech students when they need automotive service/body Technicians,” Kaufman said.  He also explained that generally, students have no problem finding a job in the industry. Ivy Tech’s Automotive Technology graduates are employed throughout the area including Expressway Dodge, Expressway Jeep, Kenny Kent Toyota, Kenny Kent Chevy, Romain Buick, D-Patrick Nissan, Henderson Chevrolet, Raben Tire, Best One, Duels Kia, Newburgh Auto, and Brake Supply.

If you are in the surrounding area and looking for a future star for your bay, get in touch with Kaufman and his team by email [email protected] or call 812-429-0593.