Automotive Education and Training Key Terms

Learn about automotive education terms including AFV degrees and high performance degrees

By Sandy Baker

The field of automotive education training is large. Trade schools, community colleges and universities offer a number of different programs to help prepare students to enter the world of automotive repair and engineering. One of the growing areas in this industry is the alternative fuel vehicle technician degree. Programs like automotive engineering and automotive management are still very popular.

Alternative fuel vehicle technician, AFV technician

An AFV technician specializes in repairing vehicles that run on alternative fuels, such as biodiesel and electricity. These individuals may also help convert standard vehicles to alternative fuels. Technicians who obtain these degrees often want to play a role in helping the environment.
Try: The National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation offers a thorough look at this degree program.

Automotive engineering degree

An automotive engineering degree is a four-year program where students learn all aspects of the engineering process, including metallurgy, dynamometer testing, developing new technologies and automotive design.
Try: Ferris State University provides a look at this degree program, which is available at many state colleges and universities.

Automotive management

Students may earn an accredited automotive manager (AAM) designation by completing programs in automotive management. These courses are often specialized, including programs for service advisers or parts managers. Students learn managerial skills in all applications.
Try: The Automotive Management Institute provides a look at all of these designations in automotive management educational programs.

Automotive service and parts specialist

An automotive service and parts specialist will need an education in areas such as automotive system operations. These individuals may work in management level positions in automotive stores.
Try: Tidewater Community College lists the curriculum involved in obtaining an automotive service and parts specialist degree.

Collision repair and auto body training

Those who wish to work in automotive body repair may wish to consider an education in collision repair and auto body training. Individuals in these programs will learn auto body construction and surface prep. They will learn about the design process, as well as welding and cutting skills.
Try: Lincoln Educational Services has a program offering collision repair and auto body training.

High performance and racing engine technicians

Those who love speed may wish to get into a career as a high performance and racing engine technician. This type of specialized degree is often available through trade schools. Individuals will learn how to install parts and repair them. Engine repair and maintenance are often important aspects. Students also learn how to add power to engines and to tune them for high performance.
Try: BeeLineWeb offers a better look at high performance and racing engines technicians programs.