The automotive industry is rapidly changing, thanks to the advancement of new technologies and trends. As a result, automotive mechanic school programs are also evolving, so students are prepared to enter the industry. At Pennco Tech, we provide automotive career training programs to aspiring auto and diesel technicians in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, keeping up with current trends to ensure our students get the proper education. Here, we discuss the future of automotive mechanic schools and how they’re evolving.
How Is the Auto Industry Evolving?
The automotive industry is a rapidly evolving one, due in part to new technologies and trends that have emerged. Changes that the auto industry has experienced in recent years include:
- A shift to electric vehicles (EVs) or hybrid vehicles over internal combustion models
- The development of autonomous vehicles that can drive themselves
- Increased smart car technology and software in vehicles like backup cameras, GPS systems, etc.
- Addition of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warnings and blind spot detection
- Increase in vehicle connectivity with other cars, public infrastructure, and more
These are just some of the many ways the automotive industry has evolved recently and will continue to change in the coming years.
Changes to Curriculum at Automotive Mechanic Schools
Now that you’re familiar with some of the changes in the automotive industry, you can understand why automotive mechanic schools are also evolving to keep up with these changes. When you traditionally think of a mechanic, you think of someone using tools to repair a car. Although that is still important, the increase in the use of computerized diagnostics and technologies has increased greatly in the field and needs to be reflected in the curriculums. Some changes that are being seen in automotive mechanic school programs include:
- Specialized training dedicated to electric and autonomous vehicles, including how to diagnose problems, repair them, and replace parts
- Lessons that focus on innovative features in vehicles like sensor technology, advanced hardware and software, etc.
- Focus on diagnostic tools over traditional manual inspections
- Increase in online learning systems including hybrid and fully remote programs
- Using simulations and virtual reality (VR) to let students practice techniques in a regulated environment
These changes to automotive mechanic school curriculums help ensure that new graduates of programs are ready to enter the evolving workforce with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive.
Automotive Technology Program at Pennco Tech
If you’re interested in an Automotive Technology program that is keeping up with the evolving state of the auto industry, look no further than Pennco Tech, where we have been training tomorrow’s workforce for over 50 years. Our automotive technology program runs for 39 weeks and has flexible schedule options, including day or evening classes for full- or part-time schedules.
At Pennco Tech, our experienced instructors keep up with industry trends, technologies, and advancements, so we can offer our students the proper education they need to succeed. Since today’s vehicles feature a range of electronic and computerized circuitry, our program teaches students how to use modern test equipment to diagnose and repair them. Students also receive specialized training in both the mechanical and computerized parts of a vehicle.
Once the automotive technology program is completed, students will be ready to perform the duties required of a professional automotive technician, including identifying mechanical problems, using computerized diagnostic tools, repairing electric and hybrid vehicles, and more. Students in our program are encouraged to take the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) test to become certified as an Automotive Service Excellence Technician. If a current student elects to take the test while still in school, and passes, Pennco will even pay for it!
Why Choose Pennco Tech for Automotive Technology?
If you’re interested in the Automotive Technology program at Pennco Tech but are curious about the other benefits of our school, there are plenty. They include:
- Access to the Career Services department that can help with resumes, interview prep, and more
- Affordable tuition rates
- Day and evening classes
- Financial aid opportunities available for qualified students
- Knowledgeable instructors who are passionate about their fields and student success
- Accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC)
- Two convenient locations in Bristol, PA, and Blackwood, NJ
For more information about the benefits of attending a Pennco Tech training program, visit our Answer Center or give us a call to learn more.
Enroll in Our Automotive Technology Program Today
If you’re ready to enroll in an automotive training program, make sure it teaches the latest skills and technologies needed for success in the industry. At Pennco Tech, you can trust that you’ll learn the updated skills you need for the ever-evolving automotive industry. For more information about enrolling in the program or to schedule a tour at one of our campuses, contact us today.