What to Expect from an Automotive Technology Program
Before deciding to enroll in an automotive technology program, you probably have some questions. The main one being, what should you expect from the program itself? To answer that question, you should ask another: what kind of technologies are in modern cars? Because modern cars are filled with a variety of high-tech devices, the education you receive should revolve around gaining the most up-to-date knowledge and hands-on experience with these advanced systems.
For example, the engine control unit keeps the engine running efficiently. Complex systems like cylinder deactivation and airflow management are dependent on microprocessors to maximize fuel economy. They are good at what they do, but they are notoriously difficult to troubleshoot and repair.
An entertainment system used to be nothing more than a radio. Now, cars leave the factory with premium sound and multi-screen video entertainment setups. In the aftermarket, the sky is the limit.
Safety systems include airbags and other systems like adaptive cruise control, seatbelt pretensioners, and lane departure warning alerts. These systems are paving the road for self-driving cars.
Automotive Training Center programs have enabled many graduates to pursue successful careers in the automotive technology industry. If you’re looking to become a part of this exciting field, it’s important to understand career options and how to pursue them.
Automotive Technology Topics
Training in these four areas rank high among what to expect from an automotive technology program:
- Basic Engine Troubleshooting
Advanced technology is great, but most cars still depend on internal combustion engines. The basics may not have changed much over the last hundred years, but there is still a tremendous amount to learn about these machines. Luckily for students, the need for these skills will not go away any time soon.
- Computer Skills
Computers are now the tool of choice for diagnosing all types of car problems. A simple point-and-click interface may be enough for simple troubleshooting, but concepts like computer logic and algorithm design are starting to be more and more useful for individuals who build and repair cars and trucks.
- Automotive Sensor Integration
Some cars include everything from engine fuel and oxygen measurement systems to laser rangefinders and even radar. These sensors must be able to communicate with each other and with many of the other systems on the vehicle. To do this effectively, technicians will need to understand how these sensors work, and how to put them to the best use on a vehicle.
- Machine Learning Concepts
Many high-tech universities and corporations have been experimenting with self-driving cars for years. These technologies are amazing, but if they are ever put to use in the real world, there will be a high demand for individuals with both academic knowledge of artificial intelligence and real-world mechanical experience.
Automotive technology is likely to become more and more complex over the next 10 to 20 years. Hybrid cars running on alternative fuels, electric vehicles running on fuel cells, and even self-driving cars will all likely be in the mainstream.
To stay ahead of the technology curve check out our free eBook, Apple iCar: Apple’s Auto Industry Experiment.
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