Trades and Industry Division

The Mechanical Trades Program is designed to meet the demand for trained technicians to repair, service, and overhaul a variety of automotive, construction, industrial, farm, and trucking industry vehicles. The program provides training using the latest competency-based curriculum and hands-on experiences.

The State of Idaho and Eastern Idaho Technical College have adopted the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) task list as guidelines for our automotive programs. Our Automotive Technology program has met the criteria for certification in each of the eight areas of study listed by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF). Our course numbering system has an ASE prefix, which designates our compliance with their regulations. Our students are trained to meet ASE certification standards. Upon completion of our program and one year of successful employment in the automotive field, a student should be prepared to take and pass the ASE certification tests. EITC is the official ASE certification test facility for area industry.

Applicants must possess a valid driver’s license at the time of application and must maintain one throughout the program. Applicants must have proven mechanical aptitude, good health and vision, as well as a strong desire to work in a mechanical trades area. By demonstrating their ability to perform at minimum industry standards, students who have had previous mechanical training may be enrolled in an advanced program structured to build upon their existing skills.

Upon completion of the theory portion of some courses, the student will complete the practical experience of that course. Practical experience (practicum) is included in the program. The practicum portion of those units identified may be completed either in the College lab or in an approved work experience training station in a local service facility. Instructors will arrange all off-campus work experience sites. Troubleshooting and repairs will be performed on mock-ups and live work projects, as they are available.

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence has certified the instructors in the Automotive Technology program. Short-term classes are available in specialty areas for which students may earn specialized Postsecondary Technical Certificates. For times and dates, contact the Trades and Industry Division at 524-3000, extension 3356.>

The Diesel Technology portion of the Mechanical Trades program is designed to pick up where the Technical Certificate leaves off. Students may elect for this option at any time during their first and second semesters. During their third and fourth semesters, emphasis will be on training for maintenance and repair of late model equipment, such as that used by the trucking and construction industries. Students in good standing and near the top of their class may qualify for supervised work experience at local industry shops when available. Alumni from this program are among local industry leaders and provide scholarships and technical support to ensure continued success.

*Eastern Idaho Technical College admits students regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other classification protected by federal or state law or local ordinance.