HORSEHEADS, N.Y. (WETM) – Vehicle mechanics make good money these days because they have to be computer literate and know engines. Now free classes are being offered at Corning Community College where students who want to learn to be auto mechanics can learn about today’s high tech vehicles.
“Somebody has to fix cars. Everybody drives.”
Corning Community College is partnering with Subaru University to launch its one year automotive technology program. Materials and tuition are free.
“Textbooks are free, tuition is free, tools are free upon successful completion of the program. So, it’s a great opportunity for students to start a new career without debt. Huge in this day and age,” said Program Director Jason Kellogg.
Subaru also donated a new 2024 Subaru Outback to the program.
“To have a company as global as Subaru interested in working with Corning Community College is huge,” said College President Bill Mullaney.
“We’re working on training students so they can start a successful career in the automotive industry and it’s been a challenge upgrading equipment here. Getting new technology. Subaru was gracious in donating a 2024 Subaru Outback. So, that’s going to help with student education. exposing them to new technology,” said Kellogg.
Working with newer cars is something Jason Kellogg says is important to teaching students.
“If the student wants to work at a new car dealership, that’s what they’re going to work on. We need to train them on what they’re going to see. If we train them on old technology, once they get a job, they’re going to have to be turned around and trained by the dealership to get up to the level they need to.”
“In meeting with all the local dealers, like many industries in the region; are really hurting for workers. So, we see this program as filling that crucial need of supplying auto technicians to the dealers in the region,” said Mullaney.
“The only way a program like this is going to succeed is we need local employer input. They need to tell us what they need. What shortfalls their current employees may have. We can be more flexible with our program. So we’re training the students with the information and skills they need so once they’re in the workforce they have the right skills to start with.”
One student says he was initially hesitant to join the program, but is now looking forward to it.
“I feel like it is something that will put me in the right direction. Give me a little bit of motivation to sort of like just find the right path in life. This is something I have been surrounded by for almost my entire life and I feel like this will be the perfect opportunity to get my foot in the door and get in this type of work,” said student Cayden Brink.
The plan for the program is to grow and expand in the coming years. That includes taking over additional space at the campus and upgrading equipment.