Students

Automotive Engineering and Technology

Below are details about the field of study you have chosen to explore, as well as some potential careers.

Overview

The study of planning, designing, developing, producing and maintaining motor vehicles including earth moving equipment, motor cycles and small engines. The main purpose of this narrow field of education is to develop an understanding of the theory and practice of the design, production and functioning of motor vehicles, vehicle body building, repair, painting and trimming, and maintaining and repairing motor vehicles, earth moving plant, motor cycles and small engines. It also involves developing an ability to organise, cost and complete the tasks required in the design, construction and maintenance of motor vehicles.

Course skills

Automotive Engineering and Technology develops skills in:

  • designing and developing motor vehicles, earth moving equipment, small engines and their components
  • diagnosing faults in, servicing and repairing mechanical and electrical automotive systems and components
  • interpreting and applying standards to the design of motor vehicles and components
  • testing and evaluating vehicle performance and safety
  • utilising the structural properties of materials for vehicle building.

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics

Careers

Engineering Managers

Engineering Managers plan, organise, direct, control and coordinate the engineering and technical operations of organisations.

Metal Fitters and Machinists

Metal Fitters and Machinists fit and assemble fabricated metal parts into products, set up machining tools, production machines and textile machines, and operate machining tools and machines to shape metal stock and castings.

Motor Mechanics

Motor Mechanics repair, maintain and test motor vehicle and other internal combustion engines and related mechanical components.

Motor Vehicle Parts and Accessories Fitters

Motor Vehicle Parts and Accessories Fitters fit and replace parts and accessories on motor vehicles.

Other Engineering Professionals

Other Engineering Professionals include Aeronautical Engineer, Agricultural Engineer, Biomedical Engineer, Engineering Technologist, Environmental Engineer and Naval Architect occupations.

Panelbeaters

Panelbeaters repair damage to metal, fibreglass and plastic body work on vehicles, and form replacement vehicle panels.

Train and Tram Drivers

Train and Tram Drivers drive trains and trams to transport passengers and freight on rail networks.

Vehicle Painters

Vehicle Painters prepare surfaces of vehicles, match and mix colours and apply paint.