Automotive Program Receives National Accreditation
The Automotive Technical Services associate degree program at Hudson Valley Community College recently received the highest level of program accreditation recognized by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) - Master Automobile Service Technology Accreditation.
The program was evaluated on-site by the ASE Education Foundation, a non-profit, independent organization that rates entry-level technician training programs against standards developed by the automotive industry. The college’s program has met and exceeded ASE accreditation standards for over three decades, and with this new evaluation it continues to meet the nationally accepted standards of excellence in areas such as instruction, facilities and equipment.
“During the past year, Assistant Professor Harold Matthews and the automotive faculty have worked closely with the ASE Education Foundation to make certain that our program continues to meet strict industry standards,” Department Chair Christopher McNally said. “HVCC's automotive programs have been ASE accredited for over three decades, and we are proud to continue this tradition of excellence. Students will be assured of a quality education, and shop owners will be assured of getting quality job applicants.”
The reaccreditation assures that Hudson Valley graduates from the Automotive Technical Services degree are well-prepared to enter the workforce and use their new advanced skills.
“I am beyond pleased to receive this national recognition for our automotive training program,” Hudson Valley President Roger Ramsammy added. “I am so proud of our faculty, who provide our students with advanced skills and experiences. Reaccreditation proves that our students are well prepared to enter the workforce with the skills that make them job ready.”
ASE accreditation for the program will be in effect for the next five years.
“This is great news for automotive-minded young people and their parents,” said Michael Coley, ASE Education Foundation President. “Because this program increases cooperation between local education and industry leaders, it gives added assurance that Hudson Valley’s graduates will be employable entry-level technicians. As a result of the quality education provided by Hudson Valley, the motoring public will benefit since better repair technicians will join the workforce.”