Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) is revving up its Automotive Technician Internship Program (ATIP) through a new partnership with Mercedes-Benz USA. Starting in the spring of 2024, aspiring automotive technicians in Oklahoma City will have a golden opportunity to specialize in luxury vehicles with the integration of Mercedes-Benz specific curriculum.
This exciting collaboration means OCCC students can now earn Mercedes-Benz factory-specific certifications as part of their ATIP training. This enhancement is designed to give graduates a significant edge when seeking employment at Mercedes-Benz service centers throughout Oklahoma. The specialized training ensures they are exceptionally well-prepared to handle the sophisticated technology and intricate mechanics of Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
“The addition of Mercedes-Benz training to our program is a major step forward,” stated Brad Walker, department chair for automotive technology at OCCC. “We are proud to now offer training across seven major manufacturers, covering an impressive 14 brands. This expansion directly addresses the growing demand in Oklahoma City and beyond for highly skilled automotive technicians.”
OCCC’s ATIP program already boasts partnerships with 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. The inclusion of Mercedes-Benz further solidifies OCCC’s position as a leading automotive training institution in the region.
The flexibility of OCCC’s ATIP is a key advantage for students. The program welcomes enrollments at any point during the academic year and offers both day and night classes to accommodate diverse schedules. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning in state-of-the-art labs, coupled with a mandatory on-the-job training component. Students gain real-world experience working in independent shops, dealerships, fleet shops, or franchises, ensuring they graduate with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills highly valued by employers in Oklahoma City.
John Claybon, OCCC dean of business and information technology, highlighted the college’s commitment to workforce development: “Oklahoma City Community College is dedicated to providing accessible and affordable education that directly meets the needs of industries like automotive technology. Our programs are led by expert instructors who utilize cutting-edge equipment and facilities, ensuring our graduates are ready to excel in their careers.”
Oklahoma City Community College, since its founding in 1972, has remained a cornerstone of the metro Oklahoma City area. Serving over 18,000 students, OCCC is dedicated to fostering leadership and community enrichment. With over 87 degree and certificate programs, the college provides pathways to further education and immediate career readiness. OCCC’s mission is to empower student success and strengthen the community by offering high-quality, affordable education. For those looking to build a successful career in automotive technology in Oklahoma City, OCCC’s enhanced Mercedes-Benz training program presents an exceptional opportunity.
