Why Choose North Island College?

• Great facilities. During the Automotive Service Technician Foundation program, you’ll develop practical, valuable skills desired by employers. You’ll learn in a well-equipped shop that will prepare you to move directly into the industry, and you can even learn on your own vehicle!
• A network of support. To ensure the program remains current and relevant for new employees, NIC is advised by local employers.
• Industry recognized training. NIC is an Industry Training Authority (ITA) approved training provider for this entry-level program in the Interprovincial (Red Seal) trade of automotive service technician.

Program Highlights

North Island College follows the new provincial Automotive Service Technician (AST) training program, which was introduced in January 2010. This is a progressive credentialing model, whereby individuals can exit with a Certificate of Qualification upon completion of each subsequent level - AST 1, AST 2, AST 3, and AST 4. The Interprovincial (Red Seal) examination is attached to the completion of AST 4.

The Automotive Service Technician Foundation program follows the outline as set by the Automotive Training Standards Organization (ATSO) and concentrates on areas that have been identified by the BC automotive industry and the national Red Seal standard as being most important for new employees entering the trade.

During this program, students train in a shop similar to that found in a normal work environment in order to develop the necessary skills to succeed. Special emphasis is placed on brake system servicing; steering, suspension service and wheel alignment; scheduled vehicle service; vehicle electrical and electronic systems; safety; and troubleshooting techniques. To ensure the program remains current and relevant, the ATSO is advised by industry representatives who continually review and update the curriculum.

On successful completion of this program graduates are eligible to write the Certificate of Qualification exams for Automotive Service Technician 1, 2, and 3 and upon entering into an apprenticeship will also receive a 450 hour time credit from the ITA toward the time required to complete their apprenticeship.

Career Opportunities

Upon completion of the Automotive Service Technician Foundation program, you will discover a wide range of employment opportunities within this trade or in related areas. Career positions may include, are not limited to, automotive service technician apprentice, lube technician, tire repair technician, service writer, and parts person.

Supply List

NIC is pleased to make tools available to students in exchange for a $100 refundable tool deposit, which is not included in your tuition. It will be returned at the end of the term if all tools and tags are returned in an acceptable condition. Tools will not be distributed without proof of payment from the Registration office.

Students are also responsible for having the following basic supplies:

• Coveralls (2 pair recommended)
• CSA approved safety boots
• WCB approved safety glasses
• Combination Lock (to store gear in locker)
• 3 Ring Binder with Loose leaf Paper
• Pen, Pencil, Hi-Liter, Ruler
• Calculator (Optional) Recommend: Sharp EL-520WBBK
• Welding helmet (for arc-welding)
• Welding goggles (for gas welding)
• Striker
• Welding gloves
• Tip cleaner (optional)
• Chipping hammer (optional)
   

Admission Requirements

1. Minimum C in English 11 or TPC 12, or NIC ENG 034; and
2. Minimum C in Principles of Math 10, Applications of Math 11, A&W 11, Foundations 11, NIC MAT 033, or equivalent; or
3. Successful NIC assessment testing in English and Math

To Be Successful

• Students are encouraged to contact the instructor for an in-person or telephone interview. The purpose of the interview is to provide advice, answer questions about the program and discuss various career fields and choices.
• Many employers require Grade 12 completion as an employment standard. If you do not meet this requirement we encourage you to contact a Student Advisor to discuss upgrading or Grade 12 completion options offered at NIC. In addition to the stated prerequisites secondary school equivalent courses in science, physics, and drafting are considered an asset.
• The most important key to success is the desire to become a quality trades person. The traditional values of hard work, reliability, positive attitude and the desire to do quality work are essential to succeed in the program.
• Prospective students should be aware that trades programs require good hand-eye coordination, good binocular vision, strong abilities in spatial and mechanical reasoning along with good math and communication skills.
• There is also an expectation of physical activities such as lifting, working on ladders and scaffolding or in confined spaces and under various weather conditions. Prospective students should also have the ability to stay focused for prolonged periods.

Program Requirements

• AMV 100 Safety
• AMV 101 Employability Skills
• AMV 102 Tools and Equipment
• AMV 103 General Automotive Maintenance
• AMV 104 General Automotive Practices
• AMV 105 Brakes
• AMV 106 Steering Systems
• AMV 107 Suspension Systems
• AMV 108 Electrical/ Electronic Systems
• AMV 109 Work Habits

Completion Requirements

To pass the program you are required to attain a minimum of 70% in each course.