The Flint Hills Technical College's Automotive Technology program is led by ASE-certified instructors and provides students hands-on instruction in automotive diagnostic and service repair techniques in a variety of areas including electrical, engines, brakes, transmissions and suspensions. Students will also explore alternative fuel systems and service management. 80% of program time is in the lab with real-life shop conditions and equipment that will prepare students for employment as automotive technicians.
I chose the Automotive Technology program at FHTC because it offered real-world auto shop experience. The outstanding instructors really care about their students and I learned the skills needed to be successful in my future.
Andrew
Program Options
Automotive Technology offers an associate of applied science degree and a technical certificate option. Classes are offered on the Emporia main campus and in Garnett, Kansas. High school seniors and juniors are also eligible to apply to this program.
The technical certificate is a one-year program. Graduates will have the knowledge and skills needed to apply theoretical concepts and perform diagnostic and repair procedures. For graduates opting to continue their education, these courses are transferable to the Automotive Technology AAS degree program.
The associate of applied science degree is a two-year program that contains technical and general education courses. Graduates will be prepared for a wide variety of careers or may choose to continue their education through our academic partnerships.
Associates Degree Course Requirements Technical Certificate Course RequirementsCareer Opportunities
Automotive Technicians diagnose and repair a wide range of vehicles including passenger cars and light trucks, SUVs and four-wheel-drive vehicles. The automotive industry is increasingly high-tech and technicians are in demand.
Career Opportunities Include:
- Car Dealership Technician
- Automotive Service Industries
- Service Manager
- Retail Auto Parts
- Automotive Parts Sales
Program Faculty
Joe Brazzle
Automotive Technology Instructor - Emporia
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Joe began teaching Automotive Technology at FHTC in 2019. He has over 23 years of experience in automotive repair, including owning and operating his own auto repair shop. Joe received his automotive education from Manhattan Area Technical College and holds several certifications including ASE Certifications of Master Automotive Technician and L1-Advance Engine Performance.
Bret Pope
Automotive Technology Instructor - Garnett
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Bret began teaching Automotive Technology at FHTC in 1999, prior to that, he worked as an automotive technician at an auto dealership. Bret holds an Associate of Applied Science in Automotive Technology degree from FHTC. He also has several certifications including ASE Master Technician, L1 ASE Advanced Engine Performance Specialist Certification, G1 ASE Auto Maintenance and Light Repair Certification and NATEF Evaluation Team Leader.
Robert Sieberns
Automotive Technology Instructor - Emporia
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Robert began teaching Automotive Technology at FHTC in 2010. His prior automotive industry work experience includes parts store manager, automotive technician, fleet manager, service advisor and as a high school automotive instructor. Robert holds a bachelor’s in Automotive Service Management and a master’s in Technical Education, both from Pittsburg State University. He also has several certifications including A1-A8 ASE Master Certified Technician, A9 ASE Light Duty Diesel Certification, G1 ASE Maintenance and Light Repair Certification, P2 Automobile Parts Specialist Certification, and ASE Refrigerant Recovery and Recycling Section 609 Certification.
George Shove
Automotive Instructor - La Harpe
Gary Preston
Automotive Instructor - La Harpe
David Johnson
Automotive Technology Instructor - Garnett
620-341-1358
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Joe began teaching Automotive Technology at FHTC in 2019. He has over 23 years of experience in automotive repair, including owning and operating his own auto repair shop. Joe received his automotive education from Manhattan Area Technical College and holds several certifications including ASE Certifications of Master Automotive Technician and L1-Advance Engine Performance.
785-448-3072
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Bret began teaching Automotive Technology at FHTC in 1999, prior to that, he worked as an automotive technician at an auto dealership. Bret holds an Associate of Applied Science in Automotive Technology degree from FHTC. He also has several certifications including ASE Master Technician, L1 ASE Advanced Engine Performance Specialist Certification, G1 ASE Auto Maintenance and Light Repair Certification and NATEF Evaluation Team Leader.
620-341-1329
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Robert began teaching Automotive Technology at FHTC in 2010. His prior automotive industry work experience includes parts store manager, automotive technician, fleet manager, service advisor and as a high school automotive instructor. Robert holds a bachelor’s in Automotive Service Management and a master’s in Technical Education, both from Pittsburg State University. He also has several certifications including A1-A8 ASE Master Certified Technician, A9 ASE Light Duty Diesel Certification, G1 ASE Maintenance and Light Repair Certification, P2 Automobile Parts Specialist Certification, and ASE Refrigerant Recovery and Recycling Section 609 Certification.
Academic Partnership
FHTC students who complete an Associate of Applied Science degree in Automotive Technology may be eligible to utilize a 2+2 agreement with the following institutions to further their education.
Fort Hays State University: Bachelor of Technology Leadership
Kansas State University: Bachelor of Science in Technology Management
Pittsburg State University: Bachelor of Applied Science
Washburn University: Bachelor of Applied Science
Program Information & Resources
Estimated program costs and testing criteria are available in the documents below. Visit our admissions page to learn about admissions steps and other helpful information.