Automotive Diagnostic Technician

Automotive diagnostic technicians find out what the problems are when automobiles aren’t functioning properly. Whether something doesn’t sound right when driving down the road, or the car has signaled that there is something wrong and it’s time to pull over, the auto technician who examines the car is trained in the use of diagnostic tools.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects at least 69,000 job openings per year for automotive service technicians and mechanics between 2020 and 2030. These trade career opportunities require specialized training. With campus locations in Blackwood, NJ, and Bristol, PA, Pennco Tech is a vocational school offering outstanding instruction in our automotive programs. Learn how our training can be your first step toward a career as an automotive diagnostic technician program.

What Is an Automotive Diagnostic Technician?

The main job of an automotive diagnostic technician is to diagnose problems and make repairs within reasonable timeframes. Auto technicians are problem solvers. They like to understand how things work, and how systems interact to perform a function. When it comes to vehicles, technicians and mechanics understand engines and all other systems involved, including transmission, brakes, fuel, exhaust, ignition, and throttle operations. Electricity, combustion, computers, and software are key knowledge areas for automotive diagnostic technicians, as well. Furthermore, these essential workers continue to learn and adapt to new technologies.

Automotive technicians are experienced in using tools, both diagnostic computer equipment and hand tools such as sockets, pliers, wrenches, and screwdrivers. Most of these service technicians acquire and expand a collection of tools as they advance in their career paths. Automotive technicians and mechanics commonly perform these job tasks:

• Use tools, knowledge, and experience to identify problems in vehicles
• Explain problems to clients and coworkers
• Determine a repair schedule using multiple resources, such as manuals and online information
• Make repairs and replace non-working, old, or damaged parts
• Handle routine maintenance
• Use checklists and testing to assure proper functioning after repairs

Becoming an Automotive Diagnostic Technician

People who receive automotive technician training at Pennco Tech are a diverse group. Plus, we think it’s a great career for anybody who enjoys mechanics and is willing to learn. We welcome and support veterans who want to learn a trade or develop a new career path. In addition, our Girl Power at Pennco Tech initiative recognizes that, while automotive careers have traditionally been male-dominated, women and girls are now entering and achieving career success in this exciting field.

High school graduates and those who recently earned their GED can enroll at Pennco Tech to begin their career journey. We offer $1,000 scholarships to all high school students who apply and are accepted into our trade career programs if they enroll in the same calendar year they graduated.

Career Path Options for Automotive Diagnostic Technicians

High school courses in automotive repair provide students with some basic skills and a sense of vocation. However, most employers require the completion of post-secondary trade school programs, such as those offered at Pennco Tech. Through our expert instruction and hands-on learning environments, students can gain the experience and confidence necessary to enter the field.

Some employers require automotive diagnostic technicians to receive certification in relevant specialty areas from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Those who have attended vocational training schools usually only need one year of work experience to qualify for these exams. They are offered in nine specialties, including manual drive trains and axles, engine performance, and electrical/electronic systems. Automotive technicians who pass all nine specialty exams may qualify as ASE Master Technicians.

Quality Training in Automotive Programs Available in NJ & PA

Our instructors are top-notch, and they enjoy working with our diverse student body. Students can earn an associate degree in automotive technology at the Bristol, PA, campus, and they can earn a certificate in automotive technology at the Blackwood, NJ, campus. Our programs are taught during the day or as night classes, and they cover all the essential elements of automotive technician training, including engine fundamentals, electricity, and digital analysis testing of car computer systems and components. Students learn how to repair and maintain vehicles and gain experience in diagnosis and problem-solving.

In addition to the high level of instruction and training found at Pennco Tech, we offer financial aid services for qualified students. And our career services department offers assistance to enrolled students, graduates, and alumni.

Step Toward an Auto Diagnostic Technician Career at Pennco Tech

The automotive vocational training offered by Pennco Tech in Pennsylvania and New Jersey is the ideal first step toward an exciting career as an automotive diagnostic technician. Contact us for more information today.