Automotive General Service Technician

Start your automotive career

If you like working with your hands, solving problems, and understanding how vehicles run, Riverland's Automotive General Service Technician diploma is a strong place to start. You'll get hands-on training on modern vehicles and current systems, including newer technology like electric vehicles.

In just two semesters (35 credits) you'll build the skills employers want, from routine service to diagnostics, so you can enter the workforce quickly. Whether you're coming straight from high school or changing careers, there's a place for you here.

Have a question before you apply? We're here to help. Contact Admissions ›

Career outlook

Cars and trucks always need service, and trained technicians stay in demand. Across the U.S., about 70,000 automotive service technician jobs open each year as vehicles stay on the road longer, advanced systems need skilled repair, and experienced workers retire.² Locally, employers like Dave Syverson Auto Center, Austin Ford, and Sanco hire service technicians, so your diploma can put you to work close to home. As you add experience and certifications, your earning potential climbs, with the top technicians earning more than $80,850 a year.¹

¹ Median and top-decile annual wages, automotive service technicians and mechanics, United States, May 2024. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.
² U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, 2024 to 2034 projections.

Program highlights

• Hands-on training: Work directly on modern vehicles and current systems, including electric vehicles, using industry-standard tools
• Tools and vehicles included: Riverland provides tools and vehicles at no extra cost, and you can build your own set at a discount through the Snap-on Student Excellence Program
• Ford Tech | ACE partnership: Earn factory-level Ford and Lincoln training through Riverland's partnership with Dave Syverson Auto Center
• ASE accredited: Meets ASE Education Foundation standards recognized by employers nationwide

What you'll learn

• Engine systems, service, and repair
• Brake systems
• Steering and suspension
• Automotive electrical and electronic systems
• Heating and air conditioning
• Introduction to electric vehicle systems
• Preventive maintenance, inspection, and shop safety

See the full course list ›

Where this can take you

As an automotive service technician, you could work at dealerships, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance operations, tire and service centers, or specialty repair shops. With experience and certifications, you can move into lead technician, shop foreman, or specialty diagnostic roles.

A day on the job

Here's what the work often looks like:

• Diagnosing problems in engines, brakes, steering, and electrical systems
• Performing routine maintenance like oil changes, tire service, and inspections
• Repairing or replacing worn or failing parts
• Using diagnostic computers and shop tools
• Keeping accurate service records

Compare Riverland's automotive diplomas

Not sure which program fits? Here's how the two automotive diplomas compare.

Paying for your diploma

Riverland's tuition is among the lowest in Minnesota, and there are several ways to make it more affordable, including grants, scholarships, payment plans, and work-study jobs.

View current scholarships and deadlines ›

Last Updated: July 1, 2026