Automotive Student Service Educational Training (ASSET) is a Statewide program sponsored by Ford Motor Company, Ford and Lincoln/Mercury Dealers and Leeward CC. It is a unique two-year work-study experience designed to develop entry-level service technicians for Ford and Lincoln/Mercury dealerships proficient in the latest automotive service technologies and methods.

The ASSET program leads to an AAS degree. The program also enables graduates to make advancements in their career paths. The cost of tools and supplies is approximately $1,120. Students interested in enrolling in ASSET should see the AMT ASSET Instructor.

Contact:
Jeff Eligio
Assistant Professor, CC
Ford ASSET Program Instructor/Coordinator ET-108
(808) 455-0438
eligioj@hawaii.edu

The Honda PACT (Professional Automotive Career Training) Program is a customized one-year training program normally offered in the second year of the general automotive program that prepares students to become Honda and Acura certified automotive technicians. It combines classroom-based education with hands-on equipping graduates with the in-demand skills and certifications to work on the latest Honda and Acura vehicles and advanced technology systems. 

Mopar CAP Local is a Mopar® Career Automotive Program designed to prepare students for technician careers at Mopar® dealerships by offering a specialized curriculum, hands-on training, and often a paid internship with a local dealership. This program integrates the standard Mopar CAP curriculum, developed by Stellantis, with the unique needs of a nearby dealership through a local partnership. Students gain fundamental knowledge and practical experience with Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, FIAT, and Alfa Romeo vehicles, earning a competitive edge for employment at a Stellantis dealership upon graduation.

Toyota TTEP Scholarship Opportunity:
This scholarship covers the remaining tuition toward the Automotive Technology AAS degree, provides a $2,000 tool kit, and includes part-time paid apprenticeship employment with Servco (Toyota Hawai‘i), offering hands-on training alongside experienced technicians.

The time to complete the certificates or the degree varies from one to four semesters. To obtain the associate degree in two years, you have to take an average of 15 credits/semester.

Costs: tuition and fees

Jeff Eligio, Assistant Professor, Automotive Technology | Ford ASSET Program
Leeward Community College graduate with CA and AS degrees in Automotive Technology. 28 years in the automotive industry including 20 years as a Ford dealership technician. Certified Ford Motor Company Senior Master Technician, Ford Senior Master Service Engineer, and ASE Master Technician (A1–A8, G1) and ASE Advanced Level Technician (L1).

Mark Lacasandile, Assistant Professor, Automotive Technology | Module 1
Teaches Introduction to Automotive, Electrical I, Brakes, and Advanced Brake Systems. AS in Automotive Technology from Leeward Community College with 20 plus years of automotive industry experience. ASE Master Technician (A1–A8, G1) and ASE Advanced Level Technician (L1).

Nolan Miyahara, Associate Professor, Automotive Technology | Module 4
Teaches HVAC and Engine Performance. AS in Automotive Technology from Leeward Community College and CA Certificate from Honolulu Community College. 20 years industry experience, ASE Master Technician (A1–A8, G1) and ASE Advanced Level Technician (L1).

Garren Tonaki, Instructor, Automotive Technology | Module 2
Teaches Engine Repair, Steering and Suspension, and Advanced Steering and Suspension. AAS in Automotive Technology from Leeward Community College with 25 years of automotive industry experience. State-licensed mechanic and ASE Master Technician (A1–A8, G1).

Tracey Tamura, Instructor, Automotive Technology | Module 3
Teaches Manual Transmission and Drivetrains, Automatic Transmission, and Advanced Electrical. AS in Automotive Technology with 35 years of automotive industry experience. State-licensed mechanic and ASE Master Technician (A1–A8, G1).

Kelton Taniguchi, Automotive Lab Manager
Holds an AAS in Automotive Technology and AA in Liberal Arts from Leeward Community College and a BA in General Business Administration from the University of Hawaiʻi–West Oʻahu. ASE Master Technician and ASE Advanced Level Technician (L1).

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The Automotive Technology program is accredited by the Automotive Service Excellence Education Foundation (ASEEF).