What type of programs are offered at Owen’s Garage?
General Service Technician-This course of study provides basic operational theory and prepares one to perform general repair, maintenance, and testing of basic automotive components and systems. Course completion will prepare students to work as entry level technicians for dealerships and alternative repair and lubrication facilities.
ASE Certificate Preparation-This path will engage students deeper into automotive design and theory and will prepare them to obtain ASE certificates usually required for work as an entry level technician or mechanic.
Do I need prior experience before enrolling in the program?
No, experience is not necessary but enthusiasm is! Beginners, hobbyists, future technicians, future mechanics, and ASE prep students are all welcome.
How long does it take to complete the General Service Technician program?
It will take 6 consecutive semesters (24 months) to learn the basics and become ready to enter the job market in this position.
How long does it take to earn an ASE certificate?
It will take between 6 months and 2 years depending on your level of experience. The ASE organization requires 2 years of hands on shop experience to qualify for receipt of the ASE G1 certificate once the test is passed. Prior documented shop or related work experience can count toward this requirement.
What is ASE?
It is an organization dedicated to the promotion and maintenance of Automotive Service Excellence. ASE certificates are usually preferred by most employers when considering new general service technicians or mechanics for hire.
Does all of my shop experience have to be at Owens’ Garage for ASE certification?
No, if you already have shop experience from a prior job, another school program, or the military and can provide some supporting documentation, it can be used as time credit toward the 2 years needed.
Do I need to bring my own tools?
No, all tools, equipment, and shop supplies will be provided.
Is there a dress code?
Yes, we dress for safety, decency, and good hygiene. Common sense specifics will be covered before shop work begins. We have a great record of performing our shop work safely and want to keep it that way.
What is the cost of the program?
The tuition cost is $150 per semester (Spring and Fall). This includes safety glasses, shop meals, and some off campus activities. The summer session is $100. You may be required to pay additional fees for certain off campus activities. Classroom and shop manuals are $50 each for purchase or $25 to borrow with a $25 refundable deposit. Payment may be made in cash or check.
What if I have difficulty paying for the course?
We will work with you if you need to make payments. There are also some sponsorships available if you should need tuition assistance.
Is the program accredited?
Not in the sense that would qualify as course credit toward a 2 or 4 year degree program or for tuition aid, but our staff has over 200 years of combined automotive experience that will provide a thorough and well rounded learning opportunity. In addition, your shop time can be documented for submission to ASE for subsequent G1 or A-series certifications.
Will this program help me obtain a job upon graduation?
Yes. We partner with repair shops in the area who are looking to hire talented and motivated technicians and will refer and strongly recommend the hiring of good, dedicated, and hard working students.
What if I am not sure what I want to do?
We strive to function like a family and can offer guidance and some career counseling to help you figure out what you would like to do and what you need to do to get there. You can simply audit the course or even just come and try us out!
Where does the learning take place?
We provide instruction and learning opportunities at the shop identified below.
When and where does the class meet?
Every Tuesday night from 3:00 – 9:30 in our garage (BLDG 8) at 1150 S Bell Blvd in Cedar Park (Twin Lakes Fellowship Church).
How do I enroll in, donate to, or find out more about the program?
Send an email to mjs4253@gmail.com with your name, phone number, email address, and reason for the inquiry and someone will contact you.
Does Owens Garage have a Facebook Page?
Yes. Login to Facebook and search for Owens Garage. Please go there and like us!
How can I participate in or join the program as a significant contributor?
We are always looking for enthusiastic and faithful people who would like to help us accomplish our mission. There are many ways in which you can serve and use your talents and gifts. If you like marketing, recruiting, fundraising, teaching, mentoring, procurement, organization, shop maintenance, or auto repair, we would love to talk to you about joining us. To get started, just send an email to mjs4253@gmail.com with your name, phone number, email address, experience, and level of interest and someone will contact you to set up a meeting.
How can I support or donate to the program?
There are multiple ways to do this:
- Pray for the Students and Mentors
- Donate a vehicle that will be repaired and could be given to a person or family in need (Many organizations that accept vehicle donations quickly turn them over to auctions for resale at market value).
- Donate equipment, tools, parts, supplies, food, and beverages used for the daily operation of the program.
- Provide prepared shop meals on a regular or occasional basis.
- Make a monetary contribution toward our new building project directly or through the HCBC Community Impact link.
- Refer and/or sponsor a student.
- Become a part of our team and share your talents and experience!