Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) is revving up its Automotive Technician Internship Program (ATIP) through a groundbreaking partnership with Mercedes-Benz USA. Starting spring 2024, aspiring automotive technicians in Oklahoma City will have a unique opportunity to specialize in luxury vehicle service, gaining Mercedes-Benz factory-specific certifications directly through OCCC’s enhanced curriculum.
This collaboration significantly elevates OCCC’s already comprehensive ATIP, which now boasts training across an impressive portfolio of fourteen brands from seven major manufacturers. Brad Walker, department chair for automotive technology at OCCC, highlighted the program’s responsiveness to industry needs: “With the addition of Mercedes-Benz, our program now offers training in seven different manufacturers for a total of 14 brands. Our program helps meet the workforce demand for skilled automotive technicians.” This expansion directly addresses the growing need for expertly trained professionals within Mercedes-Benz service centers and the wider automotive sector in Oklahoma.
The ATIP at OCCC is structured for flexibility, offering day and night classes to accommodate diverse student schedules. The program’s core strength lies in its hands-on approach, blending classroom learning with extensive lab experiences. Crucially, students gain real-world experience through mandatory on-the-job training at independent shops, dealerships, or fleet service centers, ensuring they graduate with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills highly valued by employers like Mercedes-Benz of Oklahoma City Oklahoma City OK.
Alt text: Students engaged in hands-on automotive technician training at Oklahoma City Community College, highlighting the practical learning environment for future Mercedes-Benz technicians in Oklahoma City.
OCCC’s commitment extends beyond just Mercedes-Benz. The program already incorporates training for technicians working with 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 vehicles. This broad manufacturer coverage ensures graduates are well-prepared for diverse career paths within the automotive industry.
John Claybon, OCCC dean of business and information technology, emphasized the college’s dedication to workforce development: “OCCC is working to meet the demand for a skilled workforce in the automotive technology industry. Oklahoma City Community College offers flexible and affordable programs taught by top-notch instructors using state-of-the-art equipment and facilities.” For individuals seeking a rewarding career working with prestigious brands like Mercedes-Benz of Oklahoma City Oklahoma City OK, OCCC provides an accessible and high-quality pathway.
About Oklahoma City Community College
Since 1972, Oklahoma City Community College has played a vital role in the Oklahoma City metro area, empowering students and strengthening the local community. Serving over 18,000 students, OCCC is dedicated to fostering leadership and student success. With a mission focused on “Student Success, Community Enrichment,” the college offers more than 87 degree and certificate programs designed to facilitate further education or immediate entry into the workforce. OCCC remains committed to providing affordable, high-quality education, equipping students to achieve their personal and professional aspirations and contribute to the thriving automotive industry, including dealerships like Mercedes-Benz of Oklahoma City Oklahoma City OK.
