LAKE CHARLES, La. (KPLC) - The automotive industry is offering in-demand jobs and hiring out of SOWELA’s vehicle maintenance and repair program. The training provided through this program may be just what you need to start a good-paying career. We spoke with vehicle maintenance instructor Thomas Richard this morning to get the details.

According to Car and Driver, electronics account for 40 percent of the cost of a new car. That’s why individuals who work on cars are called technicians instead of mechanics.

While SOWELA students learn basic mechanics, such as oil changes and tire rotation, much of their training is focused on electronic systems because computers in vehicles are becoming more and more advanced. Master Technicians in Southwest Louisiana make upwards of $32 per hour and some of the top techs in the area earn over $100,000 per year.

SOWELA’s two-year Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technology program aims to prepare students to service and maintain all types of automobiles, including diagnosis of malfunctions and the repair of engines and the analysis of fuel, electrical, cooling, brake systems, drive train, and suspension systems.

SOWELA’s program correlates closely with the ASE Education Foundation occupational competencies and prepares students for the certification test.

If you are interested in the program you can still enroll for the current Fall semester thanks to SOWELA’s Next Start initiative with automotive classes starting Wednesday, Oct. 9.

Scholarships and financial aid are available for those who qualify. To learn more or apply, you can visit www.sowela.edu or call (337) 421-6550.

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