Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) is driving forward in automotive education through an exciting new collaboration with Mercedes-Benz USA. This partnership is set to revolutionize the training of future automotive service technicians in the heart of Oklahoma City.
Starting in the spring of 2024, OCCC’s acclaimed Automotive Technician Internship Program (ATIP) will integrate a specialized Mercedes-Benz curriculum. This enhancement will enable students to earn Mercedes-Benz factory certifications, significantly boosting their preparedness for careers within Mercedes-Benz service centers right here in Oklahoma. For individuals aspiring to work with luxury vehicles and seeking opportunities at dealerships like Mercedes-benz Of Oklahoma City, this program offers a direct pathway to success.
“The inclusion of Mercedes-Benz training into our program expands our offerings to seven manufacturers, encompassing an impressive 14 brands,” stated Brad Walker, the esteemed department chair for automotive technology at OCCC. “This growth directly addresses the increasing demand for highly skilled automotive technicians in today’s workforce.” OCCC’s ATIP program already boasts partnerships with industry giants such as 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, providing a comprehensive training landscape for aspiring mechanics.
The flexibility of OCCC’s ATIP program is a key advantage for students. With both day and night classes available, students can enroll at any point during the academic year. The program’s emphasis on hands-on learning, combining classroom theory with extensive lab practice, ensures graduates are job-ready. A core component of the ATIP program is the requirement for students to gain real-world experience in various automotive settings, including independent shops, franchises, fleet operations, or dealerships, solidifying their practical skills and industry knowledge.
“Oklahoma City Community College is proactively responding to the critical need for a skilled workforce within the automotive technology sector,” emphasized John Claybon, OCCC’s Dean of Business and Information Technology. “Our commitment is to provide accessible and affordable programs, delivered by expert instructors utilizing cutting-edge equipment and facilities.” This partnership with Mercedes-Benz further solidifies OCCC’s position as a leading institution for automotive technician training in the region, particularly for those aiming for roles at Mercedes-Benz of Oklahoma City and similar dealerships.
Since its establishment in 1972, Oklahoma City Community College has been a cornerstone of the Oklahoma City metro area. Dedicated to empowering students and strengthening the community, OCCC serves over 18,000 students and offers more than 87 degree and certificate programs. With a mission focused on “Student Success, Community Enrichment,” OCCC provides a strong foundation for both further academic pursuits and immediate career entry, ensuring students are well-equipped to achieve their professional aspirations and contribute to the local economy. For individuals looking to build a rewarding career working with prestigious brands like Mercedes-Benz, OCCC presents an outstanding opportunity in Oklahoma City.
