Automotive and Diesel Technology
Auto Diesel Technology Building (ADT), Room 207, (907) 786-1485
www.uaa.alaska.edu/transportation
State and federal departments of labor projections show an above average increase in the need for qualified maintenance and repair technicians in the automotive and heavy-duty transportation, construction, and power generation industries. Consumer demands for increased performance and fuel economy, coupled with government regulations on vehicle emissions, are driving rapid developments in technology. The Transportation and Power Division offers AAS degrees in automotive technology and in diesel power technology that are designed to equip students with knowledge and skills necessary to meet the needs of employers in the industry. Both the AAS degrees and undergraduate certificate programs are accredited by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF).
There are two options for the AAS in Automotive Technology. The general automotive technology option for the AAS and undergraduate certificate are designed to prepare students for a career in the automotive maintenance and repair industry. Curriculum design is based on automotive task lists developed by NATEF. The General Motors ASEP option for the AAS degree is designed to prepare students for a career in General Motors dealerships, AC Delco service facilities and various fleet repair centers. Students train on current technology vehicles and components donated by General Motors Corporation. Graduates from the corporate-sponsored AAS degree option receive factory credentials upon graduation. These credentials are recognized by the respective dealerships across the country. Students are prepared and encouraged to take the appropriate ASE certification exams during their enrollment in both programs. There is also a registered apprenticeship program option for select students in the general automotive technology program.
The AAS and Undergraduate Certificate in Diesel Power Technology are designed to prepare students to work as repair and maintenance technicians in the heavy-duty transportation, construction and power generation industries. Much of the curriculum is based on medium- and heavy-duty maintenance and repair task lists developed by NATEF. Students train on vehicles, equipment and components provided by or procured from major manufacturers of medium- and heavy-duty trucks and equipment.
Faculty
Jeffrey Libby, Director/Term Instructor, jllibby@alaska.edu
Craig Defendorf, Assistant Professor, cadefendorf@alaska.edu
Darrin Marshall, Assistant Professor, dlmarshall2@alaska.edu
Randal Smith, Term Instructor, rsmith117@alaska.edu
Kelly Smith, Assistant Professor, kjsmith@alaska.edu