Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) has announced a significant partnership with Mercedes-Benz USA, set to rev up automotive service technician training programs in the region. Starting in the spring of 2024, this collaboration will integrate a specialized Mercedes-Benz curriculum into OCCC’s well-regarded Automotive Technician Internship Program (ATIP), directly benefiting aspiring technicians aiming for careers at dealerships like Mercedes-Benz of OKC OK and beyond.
This strategic enhancement means OCCC students will now have the opportunity to earn Mercedes-Benz factory-specific certifications as part of their ATIP studies. These certifications are designed to provide a distinct advantage in the job market, specifically preparing graduates for successful roles within Mercedes-Benz service centers throughout Oklahoma, including prominent dealerships such as Mercedes-Benz of OKC OK.
“The inclusion of Mercedes-Benz into our program is a major step, expanding our training portfolio to encompass seven manufacturers and a total of 14 brands,” stated Brad Walker, the Department Chair for Automotive Technology at OCCC. “This expansion directly addresses the growing demand within the automotive industry for highly skilled technicians, particularly those qualified to work on luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz available at locations like Mercedes-Benz of OKC OK.”
OCCC’s ATIP already boasts partnerships with an impressive roster of manufacturers, including 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. The addition of Mercedes-Benz further solidifies OCCC’s position as a leading training ground for automotive professionals in Oklahoma.
The ATIP program at OCCC is structured for flexibility, allowing students to enroll at any point during the academic year and offering both day and night classes to accommodate diverse schedules. A key component of the program is its emphasis on hands-on learning, combining classroom instruction with extensive lab experiences. Furthermore, students are required to gain real-world experience by working in various automotive environments, such as independent shops, franchise dealerships, fleet service centers, or dealerships like Mercedes-Benz of OKC OK, ensuring they are well-prepared for the practical demands of the profession.
“Oklahoma City Community College is proactively responding to the critical need for a skilled workforce within the automotive technology sector,” emphasized John Claybon, OCCC Dean of Business and Information Technology. “We are committed to providing accessible and affordable education, delivered by expert instructors using cutting-edge equipment and facilities. This partnership with Mercedes-Benz exemplifies our dedication to ensuring our graduates are ready to excel in dealerships like Mercedes-Benz of OKC OK and contribute significantly to the Oklahoma automotive industry.”
For individuals seeking a rewarding and in-demand career in automotive technology, particularly with luxury brands, Oklahoma City Community College’s enhanced ATIP program, featuring Mercedes-Benz training, presents an exceptional pathway to success in Oklahoma and at dealerships like Mercedes-Benz of OKC OK.
