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What The Automotive Technician Program At NCC Offers You
NCC’s Automotive Technician hybrid program is specifically designed to prepare you for in-demand automotive roles and ASE certifications that automotive employers in Nevada look for when hiring. For the first 7 months, industry experts teach and guide you through classroom, online, and in-shop lab instruction, covering engine diagnostics, brake and suspension servicing, electrical testing, and repair documentation.
You will gain hands-on training inside NCC’s Automotive Technician Shop on the main campus: a purpose-built auto shop designed to mirror real workplace setups. Here, you will practice raising vehicles on professional lifts, servicing brake systems, pulling diagnostic codes, and looking up procedures in Mitchell 1 ProDemand—the same software top local shops expect you to know when hired.
In the last 2 months, you join a real automotive facility through a 180-hour supervised externship right here in Las Vegas. This hands-on practice allows you to work alongside professional service teams, developing shop instincts, building networks, and gaining workplace confidence.
You receive comprehensive career support at NCC, including one-on-one career counseling tailored to your automotive career goals. From writing a resume to practicing for interviews, we are committed to helping you find the right fit in dealerships, independent repair shops, and commercial fleets across Las Vegas, Henderson, and North Las Vegas.
Automotive Technician Program Accreditation
NCC is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). Their contact information is listed below for applicants who wish to request additional information regarding the program’s accreditation.
6116 Executive Blvd., Suite 730
North Bethesda, MD 20852
Phone: 301-291-7550
Find detailed definitions of these rates on our Annual Outcomes Data.
Hear From NCC's Graduates
(693 reviews)
"Northwest Career College is one of the best schools "
"Northwest Career College is one of the best schools I’ve attended in Las Vegas. Everyone is kind, friendly, and always willing to help. They encourage students to succeed and provide excellent study guides and resources. All of the professors are knowledgeable, supportive, and caring. I would highly recommend Northwest Career College to my friends and family. "
I love NCC and that stand for Northwest Career College This the place that u want to thru but learn
Everyone was super sweet and supportive! The process was quick and easy. I’m super excited especially to be able to
Very happy and excited for what's to come. Going back to school is much diferent. The year I graduated was
I've just recently started here at NCC my experience so far has been amazing! Everyone from front desk staff to
Had a great first day everyone is really helpful can't wait to get to the end of this amazing new
NCC Allows me a safe and fun Work environment, where i can successfully learn and flourish in my selected field.
Why Choose Automotive Technician Training At
Northwest Career College?
You should enroll in the Automotive Technician program at NCC, which combines classroom, online, and hands‑on lab training with a real‑world externship, preparing you for entry‑level technician roles across many automotive sectors, including dealerships, independent repair shops, fleet operations, and specialty facilities in Nevada.
ASE Entry-Level Certification Preparation
Prepare for ASE Entry-Level Automobile certifications (E1–E8) and EPA 609 Refrigerant Handling through a curriculum built to validate your technical knowledge to Nevada service managers before graduation.
Structured, Multi-Module Curriculum
Build comprehensive expertise across core systems including brakes, engines, and HVAC through structured modules that reinforce safety, diagnostics, repair writing, and workplace professionalism, and become job-ready in just 9 months.
Real-World Shop Workflows
Master daily repair operations by completing digital vehicle inspections, writing repair orders, documenting the "3 C's" (Concern, Cause, Correction), and using Mitchell 1 ProDemand software.
Purpose-Built ATS Facility
Train in NCC’s Automotive Technician Shop (ATS) building—a modern auto repair shop equipped with professional lifts, tire changers, wheel balancers, brake lathes, and OBD-II diagnostic scan tools.
Supervised 2-Month Field Externship
Learn directly through 180 externship hours in a Las Vegas auto shop or dealership, building valuable professional connections and developing daily workplace confidence.
Flexible Schedules & Career Guidance
Manage your work-life with day or night classes, plus access comprehensive career coaching, resume building, and career placement assistance in Nevada.
3 Steps To Becoming An Automotive Technician
STEP - 1
1Start Your Journey
You will have a dedicated admissions advisor upon enrollment to guide you on what to expect, introduce you to your instructors, tour our auto shop, and help you determine whether this program is the right fit for your career goals.
STEP - 2
2Study & Gain Experience
You acquire mechanical and diagnostic knowledge through NCC’s blended coursework, hands-on lab training, and a 2-month supervised externship to prepare for ASE Entry-Level exams.
STEP - 3
3Launch Your Career
Our Career Services team helps you create a professional resume and master interview techniques. We arrange one-on-one career workshops, conduct mock interviews, and connect with Nevada dealerships and repair facilities to start your career.
Your Monthly Achievements As An Automotive Technician Student At NCC
Every month, you will achieve new milestones. From shop simulations to real‑world diagnostic and service tasks, you will build your skills, confidence, and expertise to excel in an automotive technician career, supported by a curriculum aligned with ASE Entry‑Level Automobile standards.
AT101: Shop Foundations (Safety, Tools, and Professional Practices)
Start your technician journey by mastering the safety standards, professional behaviors, and shop workflows that today’s automotive service employers expect.
- Automotive Hand and Power Tool Selection
- Automotive Service Information Research
- Automotive Shop Safety Practices
- Hazardous Material Handling
- Industry-Standard Repair Workflow
- Proper Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
AT102: Vehicle Inspections, Maintenance, and Repair Documentation
Learn how professional technicians evaluate vehicle condition, perform routine maintenance, and clearly document findings for customers and service advisors.
- Brake, Steering, and Suspension Inspections
- Comprehensive Vehicle Inspections
- Concern–Cause–Correction (3C) Documentation
- Oil and Filter Service
- Repair Order Documentation
- Underhood and Under-Vehicle Inspections
AT103: Tires, Wheels, Brakes, Steering, and Suspension
Develop the ability to inspect, service, and assess the systems that control vehicle handling, braking performance, and ride quality.
- Brake System Inspection
- Steering and Suspension System Inspection
- Tire and Wheel Inspection
- Tire Mounting and Dismounting
- Tire Rotation Procedures
- Wheel Balancing
AT104: Engine and Cooling Systems
Build a solid understanding of how engines and cooling systems operate, and learn to inspect, test, and evaluate common mechanical concerns.
- Cooling System Inspection
- Cooling System Testing
- Diagnostic Decision-Making
- Engine Component Identification
- Engine Condition Inspection
- Fluid Leak Identification
AT105: Basic Electrical Testing
Explore how modern vehicles use electrical systems to start, charge, and manage engine performance, and gain hands‑on testing experience.
- Battery Inspection and Testing
- Diagnostic Trouble Code Retrieval
- Digital Volt‑Ohm Meter (DVOM) Operation
- OBD‑II Scan Tool Operation
- Starting and Charging System Inspection
- Voltage and Resistance Testing
AT106: Drivetrain and HVAC Systems
Expand your knowledge of the systems that deliver engine power to the wheels and maintain passenger comfort in all driving conditions.
- Automatic and Manual Transmission Inspection
- Axle and CV Joint Inspection
- Driveshaft and Differential Inspection
- HVAC Component Inspection
- Manufacturer Service Procedures
- Refrigerant Safety Awareness
AT107: Diagnostic Process and Final Integration
Bring together all your training by applying a structured diagnostic process used in professional repair facilities before your externship.
- Basic System Testing
- Customer Concern Verification
- Diagnostic Research
- Root Cause Identification
- Test Result Documentation
- Visual Inspection Procedures
AT108: Automotive Technician Externship
Apply your automotive education in a real shop environment while developing the workplace skills needed to transition into an entry‑level technician career.
- Career Readiness
- Professional Shop Operations
- Team Collaboration
- Time Management
- Real‑World Diagnostic Experience
- Workplace Communication
Train With Industry-Standard Shop Equipment
Lug Wrenches
Screwdrivers
Pliers
Car Jack
Tire Pressure Gauge
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Cooling System Testing Equipment
Digital Volt-Ohm Meter (DVOM)
OBD-II Scan Tool
Basic Automotive Inspection Equipment
Tire Service Equipment
Wheel Balancing Equipment
Brake Measuring Tools
Torque Wrenches
Battery Testing Equipment
Drivetrain Components
Lug Wrenches
Screwdrivers
Pliers
Car Jack
Tire Pressure Gauge
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Cooling System Testing Equipment
Digital Volt-Ohm Meter (DVOM)
OBD-II Scan Tool
Basic Automotive Inspection Equipment
Tire Service Equipment
Wheel Balancing Equipment
Brake Measuring Tools
Torque Wrenches
Battery Testing Equipment
Drivetrain Components
Automotive Technician Career Opportunities In Nevada
Automotive Technicians perfectly bridge mechanical diagnostics with customer service and digital documentation. They support vehicle service operations and daily shop workflows by performing inspections, maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs. This expertise leads to rewarding positions in dealerships, independent repair shops, municipal fleets, and specialty performance garages across the Las Vegas Valley.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES FOR AUTOMOTIVE TECHNICIAN
Automotive Service Technician
Brake & Suspension Technician
Dealership Apprentice Technician
Diagnostic Specialist
Fleet Maintenance Technician
Quick-Lube Specialist
Service Advisor / Writer
Transmission / Drivetrain Specialist
Underhood / Maintenance Technician
Used-Vehicle Reconditioning Technician
Automotive Technician Program Cost
| Cost Per Term (1-3) | $5,500.00 |
More Information about the Profession
- For information about Financial Aid at Northwest Career College, please visit our Financial Aid page.
- For more information about the Automotive Technician profession (SOC 49-3023), review the Summary Report at O*Net Online
Automotive Technician Program Requirements
The primary requirements for enrollment in the Automotive Technician program are:
High School Completion
Get your high school diploma, GED certificate, or equivalent to confirm eligibility for the automotive technician program.
U.S. Government-Issued Photo ID
Submit a valid government photo ID for identity verification. (Students under 18 require written consent from a parent or legal guardian).
Social Security Card
Provide a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) to verify authorization to study and work in the U.S.
Find An Automotive Technician School In Clark County
Automotive Technician Program FAQs
An Automotive Technician inspects, maintains, and repairs cars and light trucks. They perform routine maintenance, for example, oil changes and tire rotations, run computerized diagnostics to locate electrical or mechanical issues, repair brake and steering systems, and document work using industry repair software.
To become an Automotive Technician in Nevada: earn your high school diploma or GED, enroll in a hands-on trade program from an accredited institution, and complete hands-on lab training and a real-world shop externship. Then, earn industry-recognized credentials such as ASE Entry-Level Certifications (E1–E8) and EPA 609 AC Certification. Nevada doesn’t require state-mandated licenses to work as an automotive technician, but earning ASE Entry-Level certifications validates your technical skills to industry standards, builds employers' trust, expands your job opportunities, and allows you to perform specialized diagnostic and repair tasks.
Graduates can secure entry-level positions such as Automotive Technician, Brake & Suspension Specialist, Maintenance Technician, Diagnostic Specialist, Fleet Technician, Reconditioning Technician, or Service Writer across dealerships, independent shops, and service centers in Nevada.
Yes, Northwest Career College offers financial aid and career support for eligible students up to $4,500. Contact the NCC Admissions Department or Call 702-819-6366 for eligibility details and funding options.
Automotive Technicians in the US make $34,660 to $81,790 or more per year, which is $24.34 per hour on average. In Nevada, they earn $33,500 to $81,180 or more per year, which is $23.22 per hour on average. Their payment structure varies depending on ASE certifications, specialized skills, years of experience, location, and employer type.
It takes 6 months to 2 years to become an automotive technician, depending on the program or school type. Certificate programs take 6 to 12 months, diploma programs take 9 to 12 months, and associate degree programs (AAS) take 18 to 24 months. A community college program typically takes 1 to 2 years, while a trade school takes 9 to 12 months. NCC's program takes just 9 months to complete. It includes 7 months of hybrid classroom and hands-on lab instruction followed by a 2-month supervised externship in an active Las Vegas automotive repair facility.
Yes, completing an automotive technician program is worth it as it offers a fast, reliable route to competitive pay and career growth. You develop essential diagnostic expertise and hands-on shop training needed to land a position in the expanding automotive industry. Gaining ASE-aligned credentials provides the exact competitive edge that Nevada's top repair facilities and dealerships look for.
Sources
- *1 According to the Median Annual Salary Report for Automotive Technician at O*Net Online.
- *2 Find the Annual Job Growth and Opening Report in Nevada for Automotive Technician at O*Net Online.
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