Skilled Trades & Technical SciencesColorado

Automotive Technology in Colorado

See How It Works

Colorado's Automotive Technology pathway prepares students for careers in vehicle repair, maintenance, and service. Colorado's growing population and active lifestyle create strong demand for automotive service technicians at dealerships and independent shops throughout the state.

Students develop competency in engine repair, transmission systems, electrical systems, diagnostic procedures, and brake systems. They work with diagnostic equipment and learn contemporary vehicle technologies through hands-on training in modern automotive labs.

Graduates work as automotive service technicians or mechanics with dealerships, repair shops, fleet services, or independent service centers. Many advance to supervisory positions or specialize in specific systems. Colorado's auto service industry ensures strong, stable employment throughout the state.

Automotive Technology at a Glance

3

Courses

8

Credentials

4

Career Paths

State Standards & Framework

Colorado's automotive standards align with ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) standards and incorporate contemporary vehicle diagnostic technologies. Standards cover mechanical systems, electrical systems, and safety practices.

Students complete hands-on competency assessments in engine diagnosis, repair procedures, system testing, and safety. Assessment includes preparation for ASE certification exams in multiple specializations.

View Colorado CTE Framework →

Typical Course Sequence

Course
Automotive Foundations
Engine Systems and Diagnostics
Advanced Systems and Service

View Colorado course standards →

Industry Certifications & Credentials

Career Opportunities

Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Growth projections from BLS Employment Projections (2023-2033). Cost-of-living adjustment uses BEA Regional Price Parities (2023). Entry-level salaries reflect the 25th percentile; experienced salaries reflect the median.

Automotive Service Technician

Entry Level
$46,750in Colorado
National: $38,140+23%

Salary range: $46,750 - $76,290

+0.7% growth3,600 openings/yr
Search jobs on Indeed →

ASE Certified Technician

Experienced
$59,340in Colorado
National: $49,670+19%

Salary range: $46,750 - $76,290

+0.7% growth3,600 openings/yr
Search jobs on Indeed →

Diagnostic Specialist

Experienced
$89,860in Colorado
National: $81,270+11%

Salary range: $67,420 - $126,750

-3.9% growth26,000 openings/yr
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Service Manager

Experienced
$82,270in Colorado
National: $65,310+26%

Salary range: $67,240 - $99,060

+3% growth600 openings/yr
Search jobs on Indeed →

Work-Based Learning Opportunities

Students intern at automotive dealerships, independent repair shops, fleet services, and specialty automotive facilities throughout Colorado.

Career & Technical Student Organization

Students in this pathway can participate in SkillsUSA, gaining leadership experience and competing in career-related events.

How Sage Helps Colorado CTE Programs

AI-Powered Curriculum

Generate standards-aligned lesson plans in minutes, not months

Colorado Standards Built In

Pre-loaded with Colorado's CTE standards and frameworks

Teacher Customization

Teachers personalize content while maintaining standards alignment

Ongoing Updates

Curriculum stays current as Colorado standards and industry needs evolve

Related Pathways in Colorado

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