Columbia College Automotive Program Receives National Accreditation

 

The automotive training program at Columbia College has received accreditation by NATEF and The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Columbia College’s automotive program has been accredited in the area of “Automotive Service Technician.”

To achieve this coveted recognition, the school’s automotive training program underwent rigorous evaluation by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF). Nationally accepted standards of excellence in areas such as instruction, facilities, and equipment were used.

“This is great news for automotive-minded young people and their parents,” said Donald Seyfer, former NATEF Chair. “Because this program increases cooperation between local education and industry leaders, it gives added assurance that Columbia College’s graduates will be employable entry-level technicians. As a result of the quality education provided by Columbia College, the motoring public will benefit since better repair technicians will join the work force.” Upon completion of the evaluation, NATEF recommended that Columbia College be re-accredited by The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). ASE is a national non-profit organization which tests and certifies repair technicians, in addition to accrediting automotive training programs.

Automotive Program Professor Erik Andal added, “During the past year, we have worked closely with NATEF to make certain that our program would meet strict industry standards, and now we are enjoying another five years of being an ASE accredited training program. Students will be assured of a quality education, and shop owners will be assured of getting quality job applicants.”