Selden: Suffolk County Legislator Stephanie Bontempi (Centerport) recently visited the Ammerman Campus of Suffolk County Community College (SCCC) to tour the facilities of its renowned automotive programs. The tour, led by Assistant Dean David Macholz, began with an informative presentation on the variety of automotive-related programs that are available on the campus and how they may fit the needs of the industry and prospective students. Macholz made it clear that many career opportunities are and will be available for those looking to enter the automotive industry, whether one’s interest is on the business or service side.
“These automotive programs are outstanding. On top of the facilities being state-of-the art, the education can lead to real and good-paying jobs. In today’s economy, these educational opportunities are worth a hard look by those entering the workforce for the first time or considering a career change,” said Bontempi.
While instruction on traditional automotive repair (e.g., internal combustion engines and related systems) is still a component of some of the course offerings, an increasing focus is on electric and hybrid vehicle technologies. Regardless of the focus, the demand is so high for trained technicians that many students secure employment before graduating. Due to this demand from the industry, along with the success of the programs, there is a growing interest in expanding the offerings to other SCCC campuses.
“We absolutely have to bring more attention to these educational opportunities and increase their accessibility. Although a traditional college education still serves the needs of some students, the trades are very often a better fit. Here at Suffolk Community College, you can actually get a little bit of each path – learn a trade and receive an academic degree or certificate; this is the best of both worlds,” added Bontempi.
To learn more about the automotive programs offered by SCCC, those interested should visit its webpage at: https://www.sunysuffolk.edu/explore-academics/majors-and-programs/automotive-technology/index.jsp.