Albany Technical College invests nearly $2 million into automotive program
ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - Albany Tech is investing nearly $2 million into its Automotive Program, training the next generation of hybrid and electronic vehicle technicians.
Vehicles are becoming more complex, and popping the hood is different than 10 years ago. This new change requires new technicians, something Albany Tech is investing in.
The recent lab expansion at ATC will give technicians hands-on training with Hybrid and Electric vehicles.
“When you move into EV and it’s a new fuel source. and of course, different technology and you have to have the training to work on that technology,” said Aubrey Halstade, Prince Automotive of Albany service manager.
EV and Hybrid vehicles require certain safety protocols. What may be overlooked when working on gasoline vehicles, could be lethal when working on EV and hybrid vehicles.
“Regular gasoline vehicles is a 12-volt system so if you do something wrong, you’re going to be fine. An EV you’ve got to know how to disarm the vehicle correctly before you actually start working on them because if not, it can take your life,” said Stoney Burke, Albany Tech Automotive Technology instructor.
According to the Georgia Department of Economic Development, companies have invested over 27 billion dollars into e-mobility-related new locations or expansions. As these vehicles become more popular, regional dealerships struggle to find trained technicians.
“It’s constantly growing. It’s sort of a transition slow transition from the gas motorized vehicles to your EVs,” said Robert Jackson, Albany Tech student.
This new technology is opening a new career path for technicians.
Have a news tip or see an error that needs correction? Let us know. Please include the article’s headline in your message.
To stay up to date on all the latest news as it develops, follow WALB on Facebook and X (Twitter). For more South Georgia news, download the WALB News app from the Apple Store or Google Play.
Copyright 2025 WALB. All rights reserved.
