Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) is revving up its Automotive Technician Internship Program (ATIP) through a new partnership with Mercedes-Benz USA, bringing cutting-edge, manufacturer-specific training to aspiring technicians in the heart of Oklahoma City, or OKC. Starting in Spring 2024, this collaboration integrates the specialized Mercedes-Benz curriculum directly into OCCC’s already robust ATIP, offering students a significant advantage in the competitive automotive service industry.
This strategic alliance means OCCC students can now earn valuable Mercedes-Benz factory certifications while completing their ATIP. This enhancement directly addresses the growing demand for expertly trained Mercedes-Benz technicians in Oklahoma and beyond. Graduates will be exceptionally well-prepared to step into Mercedes-Benz service centers, equipped with the precise skills and knowledge recognized by this leading luxury automotive brand.
“The inclusion of Mercedes-Benz training elevates our program to new heights, now encompassing training across seven major manufacturers and a total of 14 distinguished brands,” states Brad Walker, the Department Chair for Automotive Technology at OCCC. “This expansion underscores our commitment to meeting the ever-increasing need for highly skilled automotive technicians within the workforce.”
OCCC’s comprehensive ATIP already features training programs representing an impressive roster of manufacturers, including 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. The addition of Mercedes-Benz, a pinnacle of automotive engineering and luxury, further solidifies OCCC’s position as a leading training ground for automotive professionals in the OKC area.
The flexible structure of OCCC’s ATIP allows students to enroll and begin their training at any point throughout the year, with both day and night classes available to accommodate diverse schedules. The program’s strength lies in its hands-on approach, combining classroom learning with extensive lab experiences. Crucially, students gain real-world experience through required on-the-job training at independent shops, franchises, fleet service centers, or dealerships, ensuring they graduate with both theoretical knowledge and practical expertise sought after by employers, especially those within the Mercedes Okc network.
“OCCC is proactively responding to the automotive technology industry’s demand for a highly competent workforce,” emphasizes John Claybon, OCCC Dean of Business and Information Technology. “Oklahoma City Community College is proud to offer accessible and affordable programs, delivered by expert instructors utilizing state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, making us a prime destination for anyone seeking a successful career as a Mercedes OKC technician or in the broader automotive field.”
Oklahoma City Community College, since its establishment in 1972, has remained a cornerstone of the Oklahoma City metro area, dedicated to empowering students and strengthening the community. Serving over 18,000 students, OCCC is committed to fostering leadership and driving student success and community enrichment. Offering more than 87 degree and certificate programs, OCCC provides a robust foundation for further academic pursuits or immediate entry into high-demand careers. OCCC’s dedication to accessible, affordable, and high-quality education ensures students are well-equipped to achieve their personal and professional aspirations, contributing to a thriving workforce and community in OKC and beyond.
