High Performance and Custom Engine Technician/Mechanic
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to increase the power of diesel and automotive engines; enhance the performance of automobiles; and repair, service, and maintain high performance vehicles. Includes instruction in adding performance accessories; modifying powertrains; tuning custom engines, suspension, and exhaust systems; and using dynamometers and other diagnostic equipment.
- Schools offering
- 8
- Annual completions
- 278
- Typical degree level
- Associate's
- Median earnings (5yr)
- $60k
About this major
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to increase the power of diesel and automotive engines; enhance the performance of automobiles; and repair, service, and maintain high performance vehicles. Includes instruction in adding performance accessories; modifying powertrains; tuning custom engines, suspension, and exhaust systems; and using dynamometers and other diagnostic equipment.
Examples of specialized tracks: High Performance Powertrain Technician/Mechanic, Automotive High Performance Technician/Mechanic.
Where this major leads
Occupations most often associated with this major, from the federal BLS+O*NET crosswalk. Job-growth projections and median wages are national.
| Occupation | Median wage | Job growth | Typical education |
|---|---|---|---|
| Automotive service technicians and mechanics | $50k | +4.2% | Postsecondary nondegree award |
| First-line supervisors of mechanics, installers, and repairers | $78k | +3.1% | High school diploma or equivalent |
Earnings at a glance
Median graduate earnings from the federal College Scorecard, 5 and 10 years out.
Median 5-year earnings
$60k
Associate's vs Bachelor's — early-career earnings
Associate's
$60k
Bachelor's
$77k
Top colleges for High Performance and Custom Engine Technician/Mechanic
Ranked by annual completions at the associate's or bachelor's level — a proxy for program scale.
| College | Location | Assoc. | Bach. | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Northwestern Ohio | Lima, OH | 208 | 0 | 208 |
| Leeward Community College | Pearl City, HI | 18 | 0 | 18 |
| Lanier Technical College | Gainesville, GA | 15 | 0 | 15 |
| Hawaii Community College | Hilo, HI | 15 | 0 | 15 |
| University of Hawaii Maui College | Kahului, HI | 11 | 0 | 11 |
| Ranken Technical College | Saint Louis, MO | 5 | 0 | 5 |
| Honolulu Community College | Honolulu, HI | 4 | 0 | 4 |
| Kauai Community College | Lihue, HI | 2 | 0 | 2 |
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