Meeting a high benchmark…Del Mar College’s Automotive Applied Technology Program receives ASE Training Program Accreditation
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2025
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Automotive Service Excellence Education Foundation’s endorsement acknowledges quality training that area employers expect, gives students advantage by completing college’s ASE accredited program
Article by Melinda Eddleman
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During a July 24, 2025, media op to announcement Del Mar College’s Program Training Accreditation from the Automotive Service Excellence Education Foundation for its Automotive Applied Technology Program, students taking the Engine Repair and Automotive Engine Performance Analysis class demonstrated the hands-on skills training on advanced technology used for repair and maintenance of vehicles. (Credit: DMC College Relations)
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Automotive Applied Technology students showed off their hands-on skills using Consulab trainers to practice diagnostics system testing in a controlled lab setting as well as applied other skills on actual fleet vehicles for assessment to ensure they can perform real-world automotive service and repair tasks that meet ASE standards. The demonstrations were part of Del Mar College’s July 24, 2025, media op to announce the program’s accreditation by the Automotive Service Excellence Education Foundation, which acknowledges that a training program meets industry-recognized standards for quality and prepares students for successful careers in the automotive service field. (Credit: DMC College Relations)
ASE Accreditation Announcement_Student Lab_Hands-on Training_072425_Student Checking Diagnostics
During a July 24, 2025, media op to announcement Del Mar College’s Program Training Accreditation from the Automotive Service Excellence Education Foundation for its Automotive Applied Technology Program, students taking the Engine Repair and Automotive Engine Performance Analysis class demonstrated the hands-on skills training on advanced technology used for repair and maintenance of vehicles. (Credit: DMC College Relations)
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These trends make workforce-ready training programs like Del Mar College’s Automotive Applied Technology Program critical to regional economic development. One key factor that industry employers across the country and in the Coastal Bend region look for when hiring is ASE certification.
Paul Creacy, Interim Chair of the Architecture, Aviation and Automotive Department
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AES Accreditation Plaque
ASE accreditation acknowledges that a training program meets industry-recognized standards for quality and prepares students for successful careers in the automotive service field. The accreditation ensures students’ training aligns with the skills needed for ASE certification testing.
In a letter from the ASE Education Foundation, President Mike Coley stated, “We compliment you for attaining the level of excellence recognized by the ASE Education Foundation. Both the educational and automotive communities should be proud of your commitment to [offering a] quality automotive training program.” The foundation also sent a plaque.
“Employers recognize ASE accreditation as a mark of quality and consistency, increasing the employability and earning potential of our graduates,” said Creacy. “It confirms that our students are trained on up-to-date vehicles, technologies and diagnostics and have been taught by instructors with real-world expertise.”
Creacy also noted, “Our students are employed across a wide range of dealerships, independent repair shops, fleet services and government agencies.” Examples include AutoNation, General Motors, Hicks Automotive and Mike Shaw dealerships; the City of Corpus Christi’s Fleet Services; the Nueces County Maintenance Department and the Corpus Christi Independent School District’s Transportation Department, among others.
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Del Mar College Automotive Applied Technology Instructor Raymond Wallace (left) demonstrates one of the high-tech pieces of equipment used to train students preparing for repair and maintenance careers in the auto industry. Observing the demo is Jeff Barlow second from left), Service Director with Mike Shaw Kia, and two other dealership employees. As auto industry partners, they attended Del Mar College’s media op on July 24, 2025, to announce its new national program accreditation from the Automotive Service Excellence Education Foundation. (Credit: DMC College Relations)
ASE Accreditation_Automotive Faculty Member and Industry Partners
Del Mar College Instructor of Automotive Applied Technology Raymond Wallace (left) speaks to automotive industry partners Charlie Hicks, Chief Executive Officers of Hicks Automotive Group; Jeff Barlow, Service Director with Mike Shaw Kia dealership; Bruce Barber, Service Director with Ed Hicks Mercedes; and Hicks Layton, Sales Manager with Ed Hicks Nissan, during a media op to showcase students’ skills as part of the college’s announcement of receiving Program Training Accreditation from the Automotive Service Education Foundation. (Credit: DMC College Relations)
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t’s not easy to achieve and requires meeting over 100 strict criteria, staying current with evolving automotive technology and maintaining a clean, safe and effective learning environment. However, our students benefit directly from this level of excellence, and we’re proud to set the standard for hands-on technician training in South Texas.
Duane Beadle, Professor of Automotive Applied Technology
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To become an ASE accredited program, the process is rigorous and comprehensive. Over several months, DMC faculty and staff compiled and submitted documentation covering the following:
- Curriculum alignment with ASE standards,
- Instructor credentials and ASE certifications,
- Advisory committee feedback and industry input,
- Facility, tool and equipment inventory,
- Student learning outcomes and job placement rates, and
- Classroom safety procedures and lab practices.
Additionally, an on-site evaluation was conducted by a team of industry professionals who verified that the program met national benchmarks in all required areas.
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This process not only validates the quality of our instruction but also helps us maintain a cycle of continuous improvement and industry alignment. Earning ASE accreditation places Del Mar College’s Automotive Applied Technology Program among a distinguished group of institutions nationwide and reflects the dedication of our faculty and the strong relationships we’ve built with industry partners. Most importantly, this accreditation gives our students a competitive edge and lets employers know they’re job-ready from day one.
Paul Creacy, Interim Chair of the Architecture, Aviation and Automotive Department
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ASE Accreditation Announcement_072425_Automotive Applied Technology Program_Student-Faculty-Industry Partners Group Shot
During a July 24, 2025, media op to announcement the Automotive Service Excellence Education Foundation’s accreditation of Del Mar College’s Automotive Applied Technology Program, students, faculty and auto industry partners gathered for a group photo with the ASE Accreditation plaque to celebrate the accomplishment. (Credit: DMC College Relations)
About Del Mar College
Del Mar College empowers students to achieve their dreams. We offer quality programs, individual attention, outstanding instruction through faculty with real-world experience and affordable costs to credit and noncredit students in Corpus Christi and the South Texas Coastal Bend area. Nationally recognized while locally focused, we’re ranked in the top two percent of community colleges in the country granting associate degrees to Hispanic students (Community College Week). Del Mar College focuses on offering our students programs that match current or emerging career opportunities. Whether students are interested in the fine arts, sciences, business, occupational or technical areas, students get the education they need for the future they want at Del Mar College.
Latest DMC News
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He noted that the first 14 graduates are what success looks like, saying “They now have in their arsenal the expertise in organizational management and leadership that can propel them to new horizons in their careers, whether they’re skilled technicians, seasoned professionals or aspiring entrepreneurs.” The college launched its newest bachelor’s degree program last fall; but the 14 honorees who began their studies 11 months ago completed the Bachelor of Applied Science in Organizational Management and Leadership (BAS OML) degree in less than a year. Those students include 13 who previously completed an associate’s degree––some more than one––from Del Mar College, along with one who earned her degree from Austin Community College (ACC). 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Barron, who currently works in the Nursing Success Center with the college’s Nurse Education Department, earned her Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in Management and Leadership from DMC last fall and chose to continue her studies to earn the new bachelor’s degree. The 1992 King High School graduate noted that “returning to school can feel intimidating; but with determination and a clear goal in mind, anything is possible.” She credits her husband, family, friends and Nurse Education Department faculty and students she works with for encouraging her to push forward and earn the BAS OML degree and says that “the support you’ll find […] along the way is what makes this program truly special.” How did Barron accomplish her goal to earn the new degree in such a short time? “I completed my prerequisites before entering the BAS program and set a personal goal to finish them early so I could fully focus on my [bachelor-level] courses,” she said. “However, the program is so well designed that students can balance prerequisite courses alongside their BAS classes if needed. This program offers incredible flexibility for working adults and busy families, and it’s built to help you succeed.” Approved by the DMC Board of Regents in spring 2024 and offered completely online through the Business Administration and Entrepreneurship Department, the BAS OML degree program targets individuals in the workforce who already hold an associate’s degree and are ready to expand their expertise in organizational management and leadership, including those working as skilled technicians, seasoned professionals, employees aiming for higher leadership positions or individuals considering becoming an entrepreneur. The BAS OML degree also targets new DMC students who are beginning their studies in any of the college’s 55 programs that can transition into the new bachelor’s degree after students complete their AAS degree in their selected major. The BAS OML degree is stackable, meaning it builds upon the foundation acquired by earning one of the applicable associate’s degrees currently available and offers a comprehensive skill set necessary in today’s competitive market. Of the first 14 students completing their BAS OML degree this summer and receiving their stole on July 10, Dr. Sramek said, “These graduates are already making an impact across industries, and their success sets a strong foundation for future generations For anyone interested in starting DMC’s Bachelor of Applied Science in Organizational Management and Leadership degree program this fall, information about program requirements, the admissions process and an online form to get started are available at www.delmar.edu/basoml. Interested individuals can also inquire about the program at basoml@delmar.edu or 361-698-1372. Fall 2025 registration is currently underway with classes beginning Monday, Aug. 25. Learn more by visiting www.delmar.edu/registration or contacting the DMC Student Enrollment Center at 361-698-1290 or enroll@delmar.edu.
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- 11th annual Mexican American Studies Summer Seminar offering panels on art, dance and music on Saturday, July 26Article by Richard Guerrero, Jr. Murals, mariachis and traditional Mexican dance are among the highlights of this year’s Summer Seminar, which is presented annually by the Mexican American Studies (MAS) Program at Del Mar College (DMC), which offers an Associate in Arts degree. The 11th annual Mexican American Studies Summer Seminar, “Community, Culture y Más” is scheduled from 8:15 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. on Saturday, July 26, on the first floor of the Solomon Coles Building, which is located on DMC’s Heritage Campus. The event is free and open to the public. However, attendees are encouraged to register to help organizers plan for breakfast and lunch activities. Visit the online Summer Seminar event page to register at www.delmar.edu/degrees/mexican-american-studies/summer/index.html. For further questions, contact MAS Coordinator and Social Sciences faculty member Dr. Isabel Araiza at iaraiza2@delmar.edu. The day promises to offer a substantive immersion into topics and issues related to Mexican Americans, culture and experience. Panels will address a wide variety of topics, including art, identity, language, mariachi music and the importance of Mexican American Studies programs. “The seminar will begin with a ceremonial Mexica danza conducted by the group Kapulli Ollin Papalotl,” says Dr. Isabel Araiza, DMC Assistant Professor of Sociology and MAS Coordinator. “During the afternoon, they have graciously volunteered to participate on a panel to discus traditional Mexica danza, the artifacts they use and how they became a part of this group.” Araiza also adds that organizers are excited to share that this year’s keynote speaker is artist and DMC alumnus Tony Armadillo, who designed the Connections Mural, which was painted on the side of the K Space Building in Downtown Corpus Christi by muralist Sandra Gonzalez and 45 teen artists in 2019. The 2025 MAS Summer Seminar is the first for Armadillo to serve as a speaker. “If people are familiar with the murals in the Downtown District, they’ve probably appreciated and been awed by Mr. Armadillo’s work,” Araiza notes. “He is a renowned local artist whose work has been shown and won awards across Texas and the nation, so he will discuss his work and creative process when he speaks during the seminar.” Another item of interest, Araiza notes, is a morning panel featuring scholars and artists who recently published “Somos Tejanas: Chicana Identity and Culture in Texas.” Panelists will share details about the book, which explores the complexity of identity by weaving together poetry, art, history, and personal experiences. Given music’s importance to the cultural traditions of the Mexican American community, Araiza says she’s excited to have Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi’s Amanda Marquez, a faculty member who is also a co-founder of the university’s Mariachi Festival, as a presenter. She will cover the history of mariachi music. While organizers have held previous seminars in other college locations, this year’s full-day event will take place in the Coles Building which also houses the Center for Mexican American Studies. Attendees will have an opportunity to visit the center, which is a community space, and to learn about projects the center has planned for the near future. The college’s Mexican American Studies Summer Seminar dates to 2014. “This annual event is a gift to the community from former English Professor Mike Anzaldúa, who was deeply involved at Del Mar College from 1969 until his death in 2012,” Araiza says, adding, “The summer seminar is a unique opportunity for the community to learn about itself and our experiences.”
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- Del Mar College holding job fair at Heritage Campus on Wednesday, June 25Article by Melinda Eddleman Working in higher education can be rewarding no matter the position while serving students and the community. And, an opportunity to explore employment at Del Mar College (DMC) is just around the corner. The college’s Human Resources Office will hold a job fair on Wednesday, June 25, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Retama Room (second floor) at the Harvin Student Center on DMC’s Heritage Campus, which is located at 101 Baldwin Blvd. (78404). Get online directions and view a campus map using the following link: www.delmar.edu/becoming-a-viking/discover/tours/locations.html. Ranging from college-level teaching positions to support staff jobs, DMC currently has over 300 employment opportunities available now and beginning with the fall semester. Individuals can explore job openings by visiting dmcjobs.delmar.edu/postings/search before attending or during the event. Additionally, participants can: Meet with HR staff and hiring managers to answer your questions, Receive personalized guidance on how to apply and stand out as a potential employee, Learn about benefits, growth opportunities and workplace culture, and Access on-site application assistance with computer availability. Questions? Inquiries can be directed to the DMC Human Resources Office at 361-698-2178 or dmcjobs@delmar.edu. Individuals can also explore Del Mar College, its campus culture, program offerings and more at www.delmar.edu. Whether you’re a student or employee, you can “own your dreams” at DMC! ### Download a printable flyer below:
- Registration for DMC Summer II and Fall 2025 credit courses is ongoingArticle by Richard Guerrero, Jr. Whether you’re seeking a full course correction in life and would like to start working toward a new career path or you’re already working on an associate degree but have taken a break and are ready to get back on track, online and on-campus registration and advising are currently underway for Del Mar College Summer II and Fall 2025 credit courses. Summer Session II includes five- and six-week courses to fit in with your busy summertime schedule while fall courses include eight-, 12-, 15- and 16-week sessions that also give you options. Registration and tuition/fees deadlines vary for summer and fall sessions, so go online to the college’s Registration page for specific dates. In-person admissions/registration assistance is available on all three campuses (online directions and campus maps): • Heritage Campus – Harvin Student Center, 101 Baldwin Blvd. (78404) • Windward Campus – Coleman Center, 4101 Old Brownsville Road (78405) • Oso Creek Campus – Main Center Building, 7002 Yorktown Blvd. (78414) Both current and prospective students can view course offerings, which are frequently updated throughout the registration process. Additionally, students can use WebDMC to check their financial aid status, review their degree plan and find other information. Current students also need to contact the department of their declared major for specific instructions (access the Academic Advisor Directory). Prospective students needing to complete their admissions file can get more information about the process on the Admissions web page or contact the DMC Student Enrollment Center at 361-698-1290 or enroll@delmar.edu. Summer Session II classes begin Monday, July 7. Currently, Fall 2025 registration is underway with classes beginning Monday, Aug. 25. To learn more about registration opportunities, payment deadlines and other pertinent information, visit https://www.delmar.edu/registration. Individuals can also contact the DMC Student Enrollment Center at 361-698-1290 or enroill@delmar.edu about fall registration. The college will host two more One Stop Saturday events, July 12 and Aug. 2, in the Harvin Student Center on the Heritage Campus from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to assist individuals with their admissions files, registration and other processes in preparation for the fall semester. During the July 12 One Stop Saturday, DMC in-district residents can also learn more about Del Mar College’s Freedom to Dream Tuition Waiver Pilot Program, which launches this fall and has an Aug. 1 application deadline. For details about other steps, you can take to get a head start before attending a One Stop Saturday event, visit www.delmar.edu/1stop/index.html. Already hold an associate degree from one of the many programs offered at DMC? Take the next step to earn a bachelor’s degree––either the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) degree for those already working as registered nurses or the Bachelor of Applied Science in Organizational Management and Leadership (BAS-OML) degree that applies to well-over 50 associate degree programs among the college’s curricula. The college offers the BAS-OML degree completely online through the Department of Business Administration and Entrepreneurship. Both individuals who already hold an associate degree and those students just beginning their studies among the 55 programs applicable to the bachelor’s degree when completed are encouraged to pursue the BAS-OML. Information about program requirements, the admissions process and an online form to get started are available at www.delmar.edu/basoml. Interested individuals can also inquire about the BAS-OML degree program at basoml@delmar.edu or 361-698-1372. The next student group for the RN to BSN degree begins in spring 2026, but the application process runs July 1 through Oct. 1. Applicants must hold a valid RN state license and have completed 90 semester credit hours (SCH) that include required general education credit courses. Additionally, interested individuals must also have completed associate degree-level RN coursework from an accredited nursing program. Prospective applicants can learn more about the program at delmar.edu/bsn/index.html or by contacting the college’s Department of Nurse Education at RNtoBSN@delmar.edu or 361-698-2809. What are you waiting for? Apply or get registered to “own your dreams” at Del Mar College!
