Butte College’s Automotive Technology program offers a practical pathway into the vehicle-service industry. Accredited by ASE and NATEF the curriculum is delivered at the Skyway Center in Chico, California. Prospective students can earn either a Certificate of Achievement or an Associate degree while gaining experience on real-world systems ranging from engines to electronic diagnostics.
Prerequisites, enrollment steps, and early preparation
Before you can register for the core automotive classes, you must complete two foundational courses: AUT 101 and AUT 3. These classes can be taken as listed or through approved equivalents. To sign up, first obtain a Butte College student ID by submitting an application and finishing the mandatory orientation. There is no minimum GPA, so the primary barrier is simply enrolling in the prerequisites as early as possible, because the program caps its enrollment each term. An on-campus tour of the Skyway Center is strongly recommended; it lets you see the workshop bays, meet faculty, and verify that you understand the next steps.
Step-by-step enrollment checklist
- Apply to Butte College and receive your student identification number.
- Complete the college-wide orientation module.
- Enroll in AUT 101 and AUT 3 (or their recognized substitutes).
- Schedule a program tour to connect with instructors and see the facilities.
- If interested in the Honda PACT track, arrange a counseling session with the PACT coordinator.
There is no separate competitive application for the automotive pathway; completing the prerequisite courses and registering for the subsequent classes automatically places you in the program, pending space availability.
Financial responsibilities and aid options
Students are responsible for tuition, fees, required textbooks, and personal tools. Tuition is charged at $46 per unit for California residents plus applicable service fees. In addition, each participant must obtain a uniform—either the college-issued automotive shirt and pants or a dealership-provided kit—and a pair of safety glasses. Tool and supply costs vary by specialization track; the department supplies a current list on request. Living expenses are not covered in the program budget.
The college’s Financial Aid Office can help you explore scholarships, grants, and loans, while the Veterans Services Office assists eligible service members. Because the total cost depends on the chosen track, contacting the Automotive Department for the most recent pricing is essential before committing.
Location, schedule, and time commitment
All hands-on coursework occurs at the Butte College Skyway Center, located at 2480 Notre Dame Blvd, Chico, CA. Class days and times differ by course, so you should review the current schedule in the Self-Service portal. The general automotive curriculum typically spans four semesters, culminating in either a Certificate of Achievement or an Associate degree that includes general education requirements.
The specialized Honda PACT track incorporates a paid dealership internship of roughly 320 hours giving students real-world exposure while earning an income. The Kenworth Essentials track focuses on diesel and heavy-truck systems and also includes industry-partnered training components.
Program tracks and career outcomes
Butte College’s automotive offering is divided into three distinct pathways, each aligned with industry certifications and employer needs:
- General Automotive – Covers the full spectrum of vehicle systems, preparing graduates for entry-level technician roles or further study.
- Honda PACT (Professional Automotive Career Training) – Provides factory-level Honda and Acura certification and includes the aforementioned paid internship.
- Kenworth Essentials – A partnership with the Kenworth manufacturer that emphasizes diesel engine repair, truck maintenance, and related skills.
Regardless of the track you select, the program’s ASE/NATEF accreditation ensures that your training meets nationally recognized standards, improving employability at service centers, dealerships, and fleet operators.
Tour the Skyway Center – your first step inside
The program tour serves as an introductory gateway. During the visit, staff walk you through the workshop layout, explain the equipment you’ll use, and answer questions about enrollment, costs, and career pathways. A brief Q&A session follows, allowing prospective students to address any lingering concerns before committing.
To arrange a visit, contact the Automotive Department directly or use the online scheduling link on the college’s website. Early attendance not only clarifies expectations but also demonstrates your enthusiasm, which can be advantageous when space is limited.
