L.A. Trade-Tech Auto Program Offers Free Car Repairs

Los Angeles Trade-Technical College is home to the largest community college automotive repair program in the region, offering a unique opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience while providing free car repairs to the public. Enrollment in the program has surged by 34% from 2022 to 2024, reaching 1,134 students, as reported by AOL News.

The program, which has been running for decades, equips students with the skills needed to work in dealership service centers, independent shops, and municipal fleet departments. Students can earn certificates and associate of science degrees in various automotive fields, including hybrid and electric vehicle technology. Jess Guerra, director of the college's Transportation Workforce Institute, noted that the program's scale sets it apart from others, with seven full-time faculty members dedicated to automotive instruction.

L.A. Trade-Tech allows students to work on privately owned vehicles as part of their training. Car owners can submit requests for service through the college's website, with the stipulation that vehicles must be from the 2000 model year or newer. While the labor is free, owners must cover the cost of parts. The program's focus on practical experience has helped graduates secure positions at local BMW, Volkswagen, and Toyota dealerships.

The program's success aligns with a broader trend of increasing interest in vocational and trade education. According to a survey by the American Staffing Association, 33% of U.S. adults recommend vocational or trade school to high school seniors. In response to this trend, Governor Gavin Newsom unveiled a plan to create more well-paying jobs by expanding access to work-based learning.

Graduates like Andrea Corona and Christopher Hernandez credit the program with helping them secure long-term employment in the automotive industry. As the program's website highlights, students gain the skills needed to maintain, repair, and diagnose complex automotive systems, preparing them for successful careers in a rapidly evolving field.