Are you the happiest when you are under the hood or in the shop?
Do you possess a good understanding of mechanical systems, electronic equipment and engines? Are you able to troubleshoot and diagnose mechanical issues? Automotive service technicians must be able to work independently as well as in a team setting. Duties may require you to inspect, diagnose, repair and service the various systems and components of cars, buses, motorcycles, and light and commercial transport trucks.
Program Information
The 30 week Automotive Service Technician Foundation (pre-apprenticeship) program will give you the skills, knowledge and training you need to enter the automotive industry and covers all of the competencies for Level 1 of the four-level Automotive Service Technician Apprenticeship program. You will learn about general automotive maintenance and practices, basic electrical systems, brake systems, steering systems and suspension systems, as well as using automotive tools and equipment. The program includes classroom theory, demonstrations, and practical hands-on training in a functioning automotive shop setting.
In this program, you will learn about:
Performing Safety-Related Functions
Using Tools, Equipment and Documentation
Using Communication and Mentoring Techniques
Diagnosing and Repairing Driveline Systems
Diagnosing and Repairing Electrical Systems and Components
Diagnose and repair basic wiring and electrical systems
Diagnose and repair starting and charging systems and batteries
Diagnosing and Repairing Steering and Suspension, Braking, Control Systems, Tires, Wheels, Hubs and Wheel Bearings
Diagnosing and Repairing Restraint Systems, Body Components, Accessories and Trim
Diagnosing and Repairing Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (EV)
Note: The information for this program is currently set to display information for the 2026/27 academic year. To view other years, choose from the sort feature from the “select calendar” drop-down.
Workplace Hazardous Materials Information Systems (WHMIS)
*Students must complete Basic First Aid within the program or have a current Basic First Aid certificate valid to the end of the program.
When you successfully finish the program you will receive:
Level 1 Technical Training credit from SkilledTradesBC of the 4 Level Automotive Service Technician Apprenticeship program.
Credit for 450 Work-based Training hours from SkilledTradesBC.
Certificate of Completion Automotive Service Technician (SkilledTradesBC).
College of the Rockies Certificate
Tuition and Fees for Domestic Students
For the 2026/27 academic year (2026/SU, 2026/FA, 2027/WI, 2027/SP)
Application Fee:
$30.00
Tuition:
$3,502.80
Student Association Fee:
$69.00
Bus Pass Fee:
$100.00
Basic First Aid Tuition Fee:
$199.00
**Toolbox Fee:
$250.00
Health and Dental Fee:
$240.00
Total
$4,390.80
*Tuition and Fees for domestic students are estimates and are subject to change. Depending on course electives there may be additional lab fees. Tuition and Fees do not include textbook costs or supplies. Tuition fees include student technology fees, student activity fees, and alumni fees. For more information, visit: Tuition and Fees.
**The toolbox fee is refundable in full or in part, subject to the condition and completeness of the toolbox upon return.
Additional Student Costs for Personal Protective Equipment and Supplies:
Steel-toed Leather Work Boots
Safety Glasses
Coveralls and flame retardant work clothes
Required Texts
Pens, pencils, three-ring binder
Calculator
Paper
Digital multi meter with 10 MΩ impedance
Career Info and Pathways
As an Automotive Service Tech, you can choose from a wide variety of job opportunities with:
Car, truck, and trailer dealerships
Automotive Service Shops
Organizations with fleet vehicles, like UPS or Budget
Service stations
Transportation companies
Transit companies
Vehicle manufacturing companies
Specialty repair shops
With further education and/or experience, you could become a service manager, shop manager, or even open your own repair shop!
