Orlando Cabrera always liked different cars and trucks, especially diesel trucks. His interest grew when he began working on cars with his wife’s grandfather.

“He taught me how to work on cars and the different ways they can be fixed,” he said. “I spent a lot of time with him and learned a lot about fixing cars.”

His association with vehicles continued with his work as an ambulance driver. However, Cabrera began to tire of the various issues that came with it, so he enrolled at College of DuPage and began taking classes in the Automotive Service Technology program.

I chose COD because I was able to still work full time and then come to class at night after work.

Orlando Cabrera

“I chose COD because I was able to still work full time and then come to class at night after work,” he said.   

Earning his Master Automotive Service Technology Associate in Applied Science degree, Cabrera quickly found a new position without changing employers.

“I immediately moved to the mechanic shop at Superior Ambulance and have worked there full time with overtime,” he said. “I have gained lots of experience and learned a lot. My ultimate career goal is to move up within the company or be able to go to any other company with experience.”

His advice to students considering the Automotive Service Technology program is to push through to the degree and maximize the college experience. He is glad he did.

“COD helped me meet my goals by getting me into the mechanic shop at work, where I now make more than I did while driving.”

Learn more about the Automotive Service Technology program at College of DuPage