Our Programs
Auto & Diesel Repair
Through Rancho Cielo’s Auto & Diesel Repair Program, students develop automotive knowledge and a basic level of training in the safety, servicing, and maintenance of gas and diesel engine vehicles. Additionally, students benefit from an integrated Classic Car Restoration program, which provides an overview of ignition and electrical systems, body and fender repair and painting. Upon completion, students emerge prepared for real-world positions in the transportation sector, including vehicle collision and refinishing.
CERTIFICATIONS
Equipment & Engine Training Council (EETC) Principles of Small Engine Technology
Southwest Airlines Professional Communications Certification
BENEFITS OF ALL PROGRAMS
Essential Resources and Wellness Services
Transportation Access
Skill Enhancement
Enriching Experiences
SCHEDULE
Monday – Thursday: 9am-3pm
Friday: 9am-1:45pm
PROGRAM DATES
August through June. Approximately 10 months to complete.
Ongoing/open enrollment
ELIGIBILITY
Ages 16 to 24
Not a high school graduate (has not earned a high school diploma)
- Field trips and events include the Canepa Motorsports Museum, Universal Technical Institute (Sacramento), Laguna Seca Raceway, Pebble Beach Concours D’Elegance and more.
- Hands-on projects, including small engine assembly and disassembly.
- Use state-of-the-art industry equipment, including a HUNTER wheel balancer and tire changing machine, diagnostic scanner, tire pressure monitoring systems and enhanced battery system tester.
- Automotive or diesel service technician and mechanic
- Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanic
- Classic automotive mechanic
- Restoration technician
Coursework prepares students for post-secondary training, industry certifications and college courses.
Auto & Diesel Repair Course Sequences
This introductory course offers first-year students the skills and knowledge required for an entry-level position in the systems diagnostics, service and repair of vehicles of the twenty-first century. The instruction concentrates on but is not limited to the fundamentals of shop safety, tool identification and proper use, basic repairs and maintenance.
This course focuses on system diagnosis, advanced service, maintenance and repair. The instruction concentrates on support systems, including engine performance, braking, steering, cooling, electrical/electronic components, transmissions and differentials.
This course allows students to function in various roles and requires them to demonstrate competency in the skills and knowledge acquired in previous classes. Students will participate in work-based learning opportunities, which can lead to internships. Upon completing this course, students will be prepared for an entry-level position at a vehicle repair facility and qualify for industry-recognized certifications.
Classic Car Structural Repair Course Sequences
This course offers first-year students the skills and knowledge required for an entry-level position in structural repair and refinishing of classic motor-driven vehicles. The instruction concentrates on collision repair and refinishing fundamentals, emphasizing safety and proper tool use and identification. Students are introduced to spot, MIG and oxy/acetylene welding and panel repair, sanding, taping, masking and painting.
This course builds on the knowledge and skills obtained in the introductory course. It focuses more on spot and MIG welding proficiency, full panel replacement and preparation, painting and refinishing. Students will become familiar with the entire repair process, from estimation through final fit and finish, interior, upholstery and detailing work.
This course will provide students with the opportunity to function in a variety of roles in structural repair and refinishing of classic cars. Students will demonstrate competency in the skills and knowledge acquired in previous courses and participate in work-based learning opportunities, which can lead to internships. Students who complete the course will qualify for industry-recognized certifications and are prepared for an entry-level position at a vehicle collision and refinishing facility.
