Our Students Succeed Here

The Automotive Technology program of study at Bristol TEC is a two-year, four-semester intensive program that covers diagnosis and service of modern automotive systems.  Our automotive curriculum aligns with the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) standards. NATEF is a division of Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), the industry recognized certification association for professional automotive technicians.

Upon completing our program, students will demonstrate entry-level job readiness and the ability to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain modern automobiles. Our training program covers the service of engines, brakes, electrical systems, computers, modern fuel injection systems, steering & suspension, alignment, heating and air condition systems, transmissions and differentials. Employability skills training is embedded into the instructional program and reinforced throughout the year.

Semester 1 consists of a laboratory program where theoretical instruction is combined with practical application. Our students receive instruction in safety requirements and sound safety practices. Students gain a working knowledge of the various materials and equipment used by technicians. Examples include, the proper use of meters and measuring instruments to interpret schematics and diagrams.  Students are also trained in the proper use of shop repair software.

Semester 2 consists of advance theoretical instruction combined with actual real-life service experience and repair of customer-owned vehicles. Students receive direct instruction in best practice related to customer service and satisfaction. Students are afforded opportunities to service customer vehicles, in our “garage” atmosphere under the supervision of a certified instructor. Students demonstrating higher levels of career readiness and trade skills during the second semester may be eligible to participate in our Work-Based Learning (WBL) program as well. WBL often serves as a placement service for graduates seeking to immediately enter the workforce upon graduation. Every student will be afforded the opportunity to take several Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Student Certification exams.  These industry recognized credentials can be used by students as marketing tools during interviews. These assessments also produce valuable data that we use to assess the quality of our program and guide improvement recommendations.

Our students have many options upon completion of our Automotive Technology program of study.  Each completer will receive a certificate in Automotive Technology, which may be used towards an apprenticeship in the field. Completers may elect to continue their studies in a two- or four-year degree program (automotive or mechanical engineering, or other related fields). Students that elect to immediately enter the workforce typically acquire positions as repair technicians in independent repair facilities or vehicle dealerships. Common entry-level employment opportunities include:

  • Shop Foreman
  • Service Writer Supervisor
  • Independent Repair Shops 
  • Car Dealers (New And Used)
  • Parts Distribution Centers
  • Parts Counter Salesmen
  • Shop Owner

The future looks good for those interested in automotive technology. The work is becoming increasingly technical, requiring experience and well-trained workers. The professional growth of our graduates is often nurtured by employers who arrange to have their technicians receive advanced or specialized training. According to the Labor Market Information found on the Connecticut Department of Labor’s website, “Employment in this occupation is expected to grow faster than average, and the number of annual openings will offer very good Job Opportunities.” (September, 2016)

•   ASE: Brakes, Engine Performance, Steering & Suspension, Electrical/Electronics,
•   NC3/SnapOn – Meter Certification and Scan Tool Certification
•   S/P-2 Safety certification