Automotive Technology at STLCC: Drive Your Career Forward

October 10, 2025

St. Louis Community College is powering one of the region’s most hands-on, career-focused programs: automotive technology. Students gain skills in a high-demand field, and employers find trained professionals ready to contribute from day one.

A Program Built for the Road Ahead

STLCC’s automotive technology program is housed within the School of Advanced Manufacturing, Industrial Occupations, and Transportation. It’s designed to prepare students for real-world automotive service and repair careers through a blend of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Students learn in state-of-the-art labs and are trained in all eight areas of Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification:

Engine repair
Automatic transmission/transaxle
Manual drive train and axles
Suspension and steering
Brakes
Electrical/electronic systems
Heating and air conditioning
Engine performance

New Transportation Education Center

The Transportation Education Center at STLCC-Forest Park opened in 2025 and brings the automotive technology, diesel technology and truck driving programs together under one roof.

The 79,000-square-foot facility features modern labs and industry-standard equipment, giving students the opportunity to work with the same technology they will encounter on the job. The center also expands the number of students who can train simultaneously, helping meet the growing demand for skilled technicians in the region.

Multiple Pathways to Success

STLCC offers multiple credential options designed to fit a range of student needs:

Associate in applied science (AAS) – 61 credit hours combining general education and in-depth automotive training.
Certificate of proficiency (CP) – 43 credit hours focused on core automotive skills.
Certificate of specialization (CS) – 15 credit hours fast-track program for essential ASE service skills.

Each pathway is offered at STLCC’s Forest Park campus.

Why Students Suceed

STLCC’s automotive tec h program gives students practical experience and industry preparation, helping them graduate ready to meet employer expectations.

Hands-on learning: Students engage in guided lab activities that simulate real-world scenarios, from diagnosing engine issues to performing brake inspections.
Industry certification prep: The curriculum is aligned with ASE standards, and students take practice tests to prepare for certification.
Affordable tuition: At just $122 per credit hour for in-district students, STLCC offers one of the most cost-effective paths to a high-paying career.
Career readiness: Graduates are equipped to work in dealerships, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance departments and more.
Flexible scheduling: STLCC offers day, evening, and hybrid classes to accommodate working students and those with family responsibilities.

Why Employers Value STLCC Graduates

Local businesses benefit from graduates who are trained, adaptable and ready to contribute on day one.

Job-ready graduates: Students leave STLCC with practical skills, safety training and diagnostic experience, reducing onboarding time and increasing productivity.
Customized training: STLCC partners with local businesses to offer corporate training and employee development programs tailored to specific needs.
Diverse talent pool: Employers gain access to a wide range of candidates through STLCC’s Handshake platform, which streamlines recruitment and engagement.
Community investment: Hiring STLCC graduates supports local education and economic development, creating a stronger, more resilient workforce.

Real-World Impact

The program’s success is reflected in its graduates, who go on to work in high-demand roles with competitive salaries. According to Missouri’s MoSCORES data, STLCC alumni in automotive fields consistently find employment in roles directly related to their training, often within months of graduation.

Employers report high satisfaction with STLCC-trained technicians, citing their preparedness, professionalism and ability to adapt to evolving automotive technologies.

A Launchpad for Lifelong Careers

Students can start with a certificate, then progress to an associate degree or transfer to a four-year program. Career paths expand into service management, parts coordination and even entrepreneurship. STLCC equips students with the tools to grow their careers while providing employers with skilled, reliable talent.

Final Lap

Skilled trades are increasingly important in today’s workforce. STLCC’s automotive technology program delivers hands-on education, real-world training and flexible credential options to meet the needs of students and employers alike. STLCC prepares graduates to step confidently into the workforce and contribute to the region’s growing automotive industry.