Editor’s note: The college reported that the ceremony will begin at noon, not 11 a.m.

NORTH COAST, Calif. — Mendocino College announced the grand re-opening of its Automotive Technology Program following a transformative $3 million remodel designed to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving industry. 

The upgraded facility now includes expanded shop space, cutting-edge equipment for electric and hybrid vehicles, and a brand-new certificate program focused on EV technology.

The community is invited to celebrate this milestone at a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, Oct. 3, at noon at the Ukiah Campus, hosted in collaboration with the Ukiah Chamber of Commerce. 

The event will feature remarks from faculty and industry partners, and tours of the newly renovated space.

“This remodel is more than a facelift — it’s a leap into the future,” said Michael Pratt, lead faculty for the Automotive Program. “We’ve created a cleaner, smarter, and more flexible learning environment that prepares students for careers in electric vehicle service, hybrid technology, and beyond. Our goal is to offer students in our rural community the same opportunities they’d find in major metro areas — and we’re proud to say we’ve done just that.”

Highlights of the remodel include:

• A dedicated EV and automotive electrical workshop;
• Two fully equipped classrooms for simultaneous instruction;
• Outdoor lifts for engine and transmission work;
• Expanded parking for student and project vehicles;
• A 12,000-pound lift to accommodate heavier EVs;
• New curriculum and certificate pathways in hybrid and electric vehicle systems.

The program now offers an Electric Vehicle Certificate, requiring foundational coursework in engine performance, electrical systems, and automatic transmissions. 

Students can also pursue an associate degree or stackable certificates in chassis, smog, and engine diagnostics.

With the remodel complete, Mendocino College stands as one of the few institutions in the region offering hands-on EV training — an essential step as California accelerates its transition to clean transportation.