Released: February 16, 2023
National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) approves program accreditation through 2028
Santa Fe Community College’s Automotive Technologies program has earned accreditation from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) through February 1, 2028. The program underwent rigorous evaluation to achieve the coveted recognition.
Julia Furry, Director of Automotive Technologies said, “The designation means a lot to our regional auto industry partners who value the ASE accreditation. It also assures the community that better technicians will join the workforce.”
A 17,000 square foot state-of-the-art Automotive Technologies Center offers a well-equipped space that provides students with the background and knowledge to earn the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification in up to eight competency areas: Automotive Engine Repair, Auto Maintenance and Light Truck Repair, Automatic Transmission Transaxle, Automotive Heating and Air Conditioning, Brakes, Manual Transmission and Drive Train, Steering and Suspension, Electricity/Electronic Systems and Engine Performance. Students can also earn an A.A.S. in Automotive Technologies.
Zach Brandt, managing partner and third-generation owner of Capitol Ford and Vice Chair of the SFCC Automotive Technology Advisory Committee said, “This is a tremendous accomplishment for the SFCC automotive program. Acquiring ASE accreditation means a lot for these graduates as they begin a career in automotive. We are in desperate need of trained technicians in our industry. The national shortage of qualified and trained technicians is in the tens of thousands. Julia Furry is the perfect leader for the program. Having a former car dealer at the helm makes all the difference for the program. She knows what dealers need and what it will take to get the training we are looking for completed. We are so lucky to have both Martin Gonzales and Alan Mirabal teaching our students. Again, these are two guys who have been in the dealer world and know exactly what we need. We have a best-in-class facility and all the latest equipment. What else could we possibly ask for? Getting this accreditation will make the transition to employment seamless for our graduates. I have been blessed to have been on the Advisory Committee since its inception.”
In response to the needs of regional leaders in the industry, SFCC has added evening and weekend classes to accommodate students who work during the day.
Ted Nime, Director of Operations Honda/Suburu of Santa Fe, and another longtime Advisory Committee member, said, “The ASE accreditation is a big achievement for the Automotive program. As an employer I know this is something that we need – allowing students to take this career path with an educator right here in our own town. Working with Julia and her team is an asset to us here at Honda/Subaru of Santa Fe. Julia and I meet on a regular basis regarding students that we have in the program and placement for them in the automotive field. I am proud to be a part of the Advisory Committee and get the opportunity to work directly with the students and provide a hands-on internship/mentorship program and have them under my direction here at Honda/Subaru of Santa Fe.”
Getting trained technicians into the regional workforce is important. Paul Bartlett, Fixed Operations Director at Capitol Ford and member of the Advisory Committee said, “I am so excited to see the ASE accreditation come through for the deserving program at SFCC. Julia and her team have done a wonderful job fulfilling the requirements to meet ASE’s extremely high standards. We currently have a total of seven youngsters employed by Capitol Ford, Quick Lane and CF Collision who are either enrolled in or graduates of the SFCC automotive program.”
For more information about SFCC’s Automotive Technologies program, visit https://www.sfcc.edu/programs/automotive-technology/ or contact Julia Furry via email at Julia.furry@sfcc.edu or call 505-428-1177.
Santa Fe Community College celebrates its 40th Anniversary as the pathway to success for individuals and the community. SFCC provides affordable, high-quality programs that serve the academic, cultural, and economic needs of the community. The college welcomes over 10,000 students per year in credit, noncredit, workforce training, personal enrichment, and adult programs.
A “Best for Vets” and a “Military Friendly” school.
Visit sfcc.edu or call 505-428-1000.
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