Grays Harbor College’s Automotive Technology program has officially earned Master Automobile Service Technology Accreditation, the highest level of program accreditation recognized by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

The recognition followed an on-site evaluation. The program and instructor Jesse Kangas-Hanes were commended for program standards and continuing to meet industry requirements.

“This accreditation by ASE is so important for our students as they graduate and go to work in the auto industry,” explains Kangas-Hanes. “Many prospective employers have been impressed by our students’ skills.” The accreditation will be reviewed again in 2024.

Kangas-Hanes also announced the purchase of a new $30,000 front-end alignment machine through the Grays Harbor College Foundation and donor Pat Hughes, a GHC alumnus who annually funds tool scholarships for students in workforce education programs.

“This alignment machine is critical for our students to always be working with state-of-the-art equipment. We are very appreciative that Mr. Hughes recognizes the importance of this purchase.”

At the start of Fall 2019 quarter, an afternoon session was added for Auto Tech, so now 36 students can be enrolled in the program. For more information about GHC’s Automotive Technology program, contact Marjie Stratton, marjie.stratton@ghc.edu, 360.538.4012.