Automotive General Service Technician | Riverland Community College Accredited 2-Year Minnesota School Offering Programs to Southern, MN - Riverland

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Automotive General Service Technician

 

Why study Automotive at Riverland?

Austin Ford PartnershipRiverland is proud to partner with Austin Ford Chrysler and Ford Automotive for the New Ford Tech | ACE program. This program gives our Automotive Technology students access to certified Ford/Lincoln factory-level training, industry certifications, and expands instruction on a variety of newer vehicle systems and equipment. We are the second institution in Minnesota to receive the New Ford Tech | ACE program and look forward to all the benefits this partnership will bring to our students and their future employers.

Check out the new  2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E all wheel drive and fully electric vehicle that Riverland's students will be able to experience and learn in their program.

Automotive Service Technology students will develop knowledge and skills in electronics, drive axle and drive train repair, engine and transmission diagnosis and repair, steering, suspension and brake systems, fuel systems, electronic engine control diagnosis and drivability. This hands-on program is designed to give students intensive training and experience in the diagnosis, repair and service of current, as well as, past vehicle models.   The ASE-master-certified teachers keep up with the latest technology changes and regularly receive advanced training from vehicle manufacturers and aftermarket suppliers. Small class sizes, plus an excellent shop, add to the ideal learning environment.

Students enrolling in the Automotive program will be supplied tools & uniform at no cost to you. Once you are certain this career is for you, you should purchase your own equipment. Tool List for Automotive Career.

    What will I study?
  • Automotive Fundamentals
  • Steering and Suspension
  • Brake Systems
  • Electrical/Electronics
  • Wheel Alignment
  • Automotive Welding

 

Industry Partners

An industry partner is a company, organization, or business that collaborates with Riverland to provide valuable support, resources, and expertise. This partnership is established to enhance the educational experience and career opportunities for our students.

Dave Syverson’s

Dave Syverson’s

Thermo King

Thermo King Sales & Service 

 Elysian Auto

Elysian Auto

View more Industry Partners

 

    Career Outlook

The career outlook for Automotive General Service Technicians with a diploma varies depending on several factors, such as the specific industry they work in, their level of experience, and the location of their job. However, in general, the demand for automotive technicians is expected to grow in the coming years.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of automotive service technicians and mechanics is projected to grow 4% from 2019 to 2029, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth is due to an increase in the number of vehicles on the road and a growing emphasis on regular vehicle maintenance and repairs.

In addition, the increasing use of electronic systems and technology in vehicles is also expected to increase demand for technicians who are able to diagnose and repair these systems. As a result, those with a strong background in electronics and technology may have better job prospects.

   Program Accreditation

This program is ASE Education Accredited and has strong ties to the industry and their advisory committee.

 

Faculty Highlight
Olle Gladso
Olle.Gladso@riverland.edu   507-379-3347

Olle Gladso
Automotive Service INSTRUCTOR

Olle comes with diverse and varied experience from many different fields which he has incorporated in to his role as facilitator of student learning. He believes that his role is more of a mentor and coach for the students than as a traditional teacher. Having worked in proprietary schools before coming to Riverland, he firmly believes in the community college’s role and function in local communities.

Olle believes that we cannot solve today’s transportation related problems such as resource usage and pollution using yesterday’s technology and is a strong proponent of newer technologies such as electric vehicles. To learn about these newer technologies he has converted an older internal combustion engine vehicle to pure electric propulsion and has other electric vehicle projects in the works.

Being a strong believer in sharing knowledge he has written and co-authored several articles for trade magazines involving unique diagnostic methods and equipment as well as how to effectively and efficiently use them. Following the belief that knowledge should be shared he is a frequent contributor to websites for professional technicians such as IATN (International Automotive Technicians Network).

 

 

    Program Scholarships

The college offers several scholarships for students to help with the cost of their education.

Last Updated: August 27, 2018

    Quick Facts


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