Description

This 30 week program prepares students for employment as an apprentice Automotive Service Technician. Students will develop practical skills by repairing customer vehicles in a fully operational auto repair shop on the Cloverdale campus. This training will enhance students' knowledge and skills in shop safety, inspection, diagnostics, repair and servicing of mechanical, electrical and electronic systems for automobiles and light trucks.

At the end of the Foundation program students will write the Auto Service Technician Level 1 Certificate of Qualification (COQ) exam. Students who complete the Foundation program and COQ exam are eligible for credit in Automotive Service Technician Level 1 apprenticeship program and 450 work-based training hours.

Taking a foundation program can build the skills that employers are looking for. To progress as an apprentice you will need to find an employer who will sponsor your apprenticeship and register with SkilledTradesBC. When you are ready for career advancement; KPU delivers Automotive Service Technician Apprentice in-school technical training levels 2, 3 and 4.

Please see kpu.ca/trades for schedule information.

Who Studies Automotive Service Technician?

This program is suited for individuals that have a mechanical aptitude, are detail oriented and enjoy problem solving. Physical demand can vary; there is a considerable amount of standing, reaching, lifting and need for steady hand-eye coordination to use hand tools. Additional information is available on our program website at: kpu.ca/trades/auto

Career Opportunities

This program prepares graduates for employment in motor vehicle dealers, garages, truck and trailer dealerships, fleet maintenance companies, service stations, automotive specialty shops, transportation companies and retail establishments which have automotive service shops.

Faculty's website: kpu.ca/trades

Department's website: kpu.ca/trades/auto

Admission Requirements

In addition to KPU’s General university admission requirements, including the vocational-level English Proficiency Requirement, the following program admission requirements apply.

• English:
  • English Studies 12 with a minimum grade of ‘C’ (or equivalent), or 
  • Literary Studies 12 with a minimum grade of ‘C’ (or equivalent), or 
  • English First Peoples 12 with a minimum grade of ‘C’ (or equivalent), or 
  • Composition 12 with a minimum grade of ‘C’ (or equivalent), or 
  • Creative Writing 12 with a minimum grade of ‘C’ (or equivalent), or 
  • KPU’s Vocational Trades English Reading Assessment with a minimum score of 75%.
• Mathematics:
  • Any Math 11 with a minimum grade of ‘C’ (or equivalent), or 
  • KPU’s Vocational Trades Mathematics Assessment with a minimum score of 31%.

Notes:

• Group information sessions are regularly scheduled at the Cloverdale campus, and participation is highly recommended. Please see kpu.ca/trades for schedule information.
• Completion of high school shop courses is an asset.

Satisfactory physical health is also recommended. Prior to applying, prospective students with mental or physical impairments, who may require program accommodations, should contact the Office of the Dean of Trades and Technology to discuss required skills and competencies, and Accessibility Services to ensure appropriate accommodations can be arranged.

Curricular Requirements

• Measuring Instruments
• Shop Safety Practices
• Shop Tools and Equipment
• Fuel Systems
• Engine Theory and Repair
• The Drive Line
• Emission Control Systems
• Brakes and Tires
• Ignition Systems
• Steering Systems
• Electronic Engine Management
• Frame and Suspension Systems
• Standard Transmission and Differentials

Students must achieve a minimum grade of B- in all required courses:

Other Information

It is highly recommended that all applicants to the program enter with an 'N' endorsement on their driver's license. Students who have not achieved this standard prior to the first day of class should discuss their individual circumstances with the Instructor.

Special Equipment

Students will require appropriate steel-toed safety shoes or boots and safety glasses.

Foundation level service technician students must supply their own general hand tools complete with lockable toolbox; approximate cost is $750.00.  A list of required tools, equipment or supplies will be provided by the instructor at the start of the program. In addition, a $200.00 clothing fee will be assessed for coverall provision and cleaning.

Credential Awarded

Upon successful completion of this program, students are eligible to receive a Certificate in Automotive Service Technician.

KPU will report your in-school technical training completion information to SkilledTradesBC in order for SkilledTradesBC to determine credit towards your designated apprenticeship.