Oklahoma City is revving up its automotive technician training, thanks to an exciting new partnership between Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) and Mercedes-Benz USA. This collaboration marks a significant enhancement to OCCC’s Automotive Technician Internship Program (ATIP), injecting Mercedes-Benz specific curriculum to provide students with unparalleled, brand-certified skills. For aspiring automotive professionals in and around Oklahoma City, this represents a golden opportunity to specialize in one of the world’s leading luxury automotive brands: Mercedes-Benz OKC.
Starting in the spring of 2024, the integration of Mercedes-Benz factory-specific training into the ATIP program means OCCC students can now earn coveted Mercedes-Benz certifications. This focused training is meticulously designed to directly address the growing demand for qualified Mercedes-Benz service technicians within Oklahoma and beyond. Graduates will be exceptionally well-prepared to step into service center roles, equipped with the precise knowledge and skills valued by Mercedes-Benz dealerships.
Image: A sleek Mercedes-Benz vehicle, representing the advanced automotive technology students will be trained on at OCCC through the Mercedes-Benz partnership in OKC.
Brad Walker, the Department Chair for Automotive Technology at OCCC, highlights the breadth of this program: “With the addition of Mercedes-Benz, our program now boasts training across seven major manufacturers, encompassing an impressive 14 brands.” This extensive network includes industry giants like General Motors (Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, and Cadillac), Honda (Honda and Acura), Nissan (Nissan and Infiniti), Toyota (Toyota and Lexus), Hyundai (Hyundai and Genesis), and Subaru, alongside the prestigious Mercedes-Benz. This diverse training landscape ensures graduates are versatile and highly sought after in the automotive job market.
OCCC’s ATIP program is structured for maximum accessibility and flexibility. Students can enroll at any point during the academic year and choose from both day and night classes to fit their schedules. The program’s strength lies in its hands-on approach, combining classroom theory with extensive lab experiences. A crucial component is the mandatory on-the-job training at various automotive businesses – from independent shops to franchise dealerships and fleet service centers. This real-world experience solidifies their learning and provides invaluable practical skills.
John Claybon, OCCC Dean of Business and Information Technology, emphasizes the college’s commitment to workforce development: “OCCC is proactively responding to the industry’s need for skilled automotive technicians.” He further adds, “Oklahoma City Community College delivers programs that are not only flexible and affordable but also led by expert instructors utilizing cutting-edge equipment and facilities.” This commitment ensures that students receive top-tier training that is both relevant and future-proof.
About Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC):
Since 1972, Oklahoma City Community College has stood as a cornerstone of education in the metro area, dedicated to empowering individuals and strengthening the community. Serving over 18,000 students, OCCC is committed to fostering leadership and driving “Student Success, Community Enrichment.” With over 87 degree and certificate programs, OCCC provides pathways to further education and immediate career readiness. The college remains dedicated to accessible, affordable, and high-quality education, equipping students to achieve their personal and professional aspirations. OCCC is more than just an educational institution; it’s a catalyst for growth and success within Oklahoma City, contributing to the workforce and enriching the lives of its students. Discover your potential at OCCC – where your future is the primary focus, especially for those aiming for a career with Mercedes-Benz OKC.
