BLOOMINGTON – Joseph Smith loves to work on cars but could not afford to go to college on his disability income. His fiancé suggested he apply for the Workforce Ready Grant which provides eligible Hoosiers the opportunity to earn a tuition-free certificate in select Ivy Tech Community College programs. Smith is now taking automotive service technician classes for free at Ivy Tech Bloomington’s new facility at the Monroe County Airport.
Smith says the thing he enjoys most about his classes is the hands-on training. “I’m always learning different skills because automotive is growing—there’s always new things being added,” he said.
Ivy Tech’s new state-of-the-art automotive technology facilities provide the flexibility for instruction on standard gas engines, heavy-duty diesel engines, hybrid and electric motors as well as the adaptation of new technologies. Ivy Tech Bloomington currently offers a short-term certificate in Maintenance and Light Repair which can be completed in as little as 2 semesters, as well as a technical certificate in Automotive Service Technology which can be completed in 2-3 semesters.
Through the program, students are prepared to take industry standard certification exams from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.
“My goal is to obtain ASE certification to work in the industry and eventually own a repair shop,” Smith said.
Students at Ivy Tech can request reasonable accommodations for accessible education at Ivy Tech through the Office of Disability Support Services.
Ivy Tech Bloomington offers multiple free, short-term certificate programs in healthcare, robotics, welding, HVAC, business, cyber security, IT, automotive technology and more, all paid for by the Workforce Ready Grant through Next Level Jobs Indiana. Many programs can be completed fully online, as well as on campus.
About Ivy Tech Community College
Ivy Tech Community College is Indiana's largest public postsecondary institution and the nation's largest singly accredited statewide community college system, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Ivy Tech has campuses throughout Indiana and also serves thousands of students annually online. It serves as the state's engine of workforce development, offering associate degrees, long- and short-term certificate programs, industry certifications, and training that aligns with the needs of the community. The College provides a seamless transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana, as well as out of state, for a more affordable route to a bachelor's degree.
