Looking from U.S. 59, the new Transportation Center of Excellence has become an ever-growing presence on Texas State Technical College’s Fort Bend County campus in Rosenberg. What was once a field of native grass now holds the building where many will gain the education for their future careers.
As the second-highest employer of automotive body and related repairers, according to th U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Texas is in need of qualified individuals to join the workforce and industry. Kayla Harden, a recruiter for Christian Brothers Automotive, agrees.
“The need for skilled technicians is higher than ever, both nationwide and locally,” Harden said. “With the growing complexity of vehicles – especially as hybrid and electric models become more popular – there’s a huge demand for people with advanced diagnostic and technical skills.”
The new center will hold an expanded Diesel Equipment Technology program, as well as both the Automotive Technology and Auto Collision and Management Technology programs. And, as with other TSTC programs, the curriculum is dictated in large part by current industry trends and needs. In other words, the education that future students will receive will be applicable immediately after graduation.
“Let’s be real – this is a career where you’ll never be bored,” Harden said. “The industry is always evolving, and there’s always something new to learn, whether it’s the latest in technology or honing your skills.”
According to the career website onetonline.org, the number of jobs for automotive service technicians and mechanics in Texas was forecast to increase 10 percent from 2020 to 2030. Likewise, automotive body and related repairers in the state were expected to see a 14% increase in job prospects over the same period.
Automotive Technology is now available at TSTC’s Harlingen, Sweetwater and Waco campuses. Auto Collision and Management Technology is available at the Harlingen and Waco campuses. Both will be available at the Fort Bend County campus beginning with the fall 2025 semester.
For more information on the automotive programs and TSTC, visit tstc.edu.