Expanded evening classes just part of new look for Automotive Systems Technology at BCCC | Eastern NC Now

Press Release:

    The Automotive Systems Technology Program at Beaufort County Community College has a new look that not only includes a revamped shop but expanded evening classes as well.

    Automotive Systems Technology students, faculty and staff recently completed a shop renovation project that includes new paint and a new covering on the floor so the shop looks like the garage space in a modern automobile dealership.

    "We got rid of the old industrial look," said Lead Automotive Systems Technology Instructor Bryan Van Gyzen, who has over 15 years' experience as a General Motors Service Technician. "Now it looks like an established dealership."

    The Automotive Systems Technology curriculum prepares individuals for employment as automotive service technicians and provides an introduction to automotive careers and increases student awareness of the challenges associated with this field.

    Students participate in technical and academic course work that includes theory, servicing and operation of brakes, electrical/electronic systems, engine performance, steering/suspension, automatic transmission and transaxles, engine repair, climate control and manual drive trains.

    The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that automotive technicians made an average salary of $38,000 a year and those who specialize in hybrid car or other systems repairs can make as much as $87,500

    Under the direction of new Instructor Ritchie Alligood, BCCC is expanding its night and afternoon class offerings in Automotive Systems Technology for the Spring 2014 Semester. Alligood comes to BCCC with 15 years' experience as a Toyota Technician.

    "These classes should appeal to students interested in a career in the automotive field who need to attend classes at night because of other commitments," Alligood said.

    These new late afternoon and evening classes include Engine Performance I class and lab, Manual Transmissions and Axles class and lab, Introduction to Transport Technology and Advanced Transportation Electronics. Different classes will be offered each semester so that all the Automotive Degree classes will be available for night students.

    "We're committed to making the program grow," Van Gyzen said.

    Van Gyzen and Alligood are also exploring additional classes that would prepare students to service and repair hybrid and alternate fuel vehicles - fields that typically pay higher salaries - as well as offering certificates that students can earn on the way to graduating with an associate's degree.

    That way, students who need to begin work in the automotive field while still going to school can show potential employers that they have skills needed to do the work.

    In addition to expanded classroom offerings, Van Gyzen and Alligood plan to provide extra-curricular activities for their students through a car club that they hope to form in early 2014.

    "We wanted to show we're serious about the program," said Alligood.

    For more information about BCCC's Automotive Systems Technology Program, interested persons can contact Van Gyzen at (252) 940-6329 or by email at bryanvang@beaufortccc.edu.


    Beaufort County Community College is a public comprehensive community college committed to accessible and affordable quality education, effective teaching, relevant training, and lifelong learning opportunities for the people served by the College.