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Powersports & Marine Technology

Overview
Curriculum
Outcomes
Faculty
Cost
Scholarships
Requirements

Overview

careers

Service Technician
Motorsports Mechanic
Marine Mechanic
Sales/Manufacturer’s Rep
Small Engine Technician

Technicians in the fast-growing occupation of outdoor power sports are in demand all across the country. The last two decades have seen an increase in the number of recreational vehicles in households and businesses: motorcycles, snowmobiles, ATVs, four-wheelers, boats, and more.

Students will get experience learning service and repair of these high-powered machines in Mitchell Tech’s state-of-the-art laboratories.

An optional second year is offered. Students who complete the second year will earn an AAS degree and will receive enhanced training in areas like marine engines, jet skis and other personal watercraft, metal fabrication, paint and detailing, supervision and management and more. With two years of training, students will have even more opportunities in this exciting field.

Many dealerships in the region will offer supervised job shadowing and internship experiences. Employment opportunities can be found in many areas, including dealership sales and service, cycle builders and manufacturers, ag maintenance shops, and various other locations.

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Curriculum

Award: Diploma or AAS Degree

Semesters

First Semester

OPRV105 > Service Center FundamentalsIntroduction to the basic principles and working environment of a service center. Topics to be explored include: the proper use and care of hand and basic power tools, the use of precision measuring tools, test equipment and special tools, safe and proper use of lifting equipment and large shop tools such as hydraulic presses and tire equipment, as well as general shop safety, the language and vocabulary related to the ATV and motorcycle service industry, customer service and writing of work orders.2 credits

OPRV120 > Basic Engine Theory & OperationIntroduction to the basic design and operating principles and components of the internal combustion engine. Topics to be explored include: valve train design and component identification, ignition and fuel system identification and design, similarities and differences between 2 and 4 stroke cycle engines, similarities and differences between air cooled and water cooled engines and component failure identification.2 credits

OPRV121 > Basic Engine Lab2 credits

OPRV130 > Electrical/Electronic SystemsGeneral electrical theory and the principles of DC current operating in ATVs, motorcycles, snowmobiles and outdoor power equipment. Topics to be explored include: current flow, Ohm’s law, voltage, amperage, circuit types, test equipment, symbols used in electrical diagrams and reading and understanding electrical diagrams in technical publications.2 credits

OPRV140 > 2 & 4 Cylinder Engines2 credits

OPRV141 > 2 & 4 Cylinder Engines Lab2 credits

SSS100 > Student SuccessProvides a foundation for gaining the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary for college success. Students will learn to make a successful transition to higher education by setting up a pattern of success that will last the rest of their lives. Students will define goals and develop thinking skills, learning strategies and personal qualities essential to both academic and career success.1 credit

> Math Elective3 credits

Total Semester Hours16 credits

Second Semester

OPRV124 > ATV & Snowmobile Systems2 credits

OPRV125 > ATV Snowmobile Lab3 credits

OPRV137 > Introduction to MarineStudents will be introduced to basic Marine Industry concepts including the installation and maintenance of certain components. The main focus of this course will be outboard boats & engines and students will install and adjust components used on an outboard boat package. The curriculum includes the identification of the various types of boats, motors, trailers, and accessories.2 credits

OPRV142 > Advanced Multicylinder EnginesContinuation of topics covered in OPRV 140. Special attention given to precision engine building and customization. This class will be the technical basis for the OPRV 143 lab. Students will utilize printed technical data and parts manuals as well as Internet-based information to prepare for projects lab. Prerequisite: OPRV 1402 credits

OPRV143 > Adv Multi-Cylinder Engine LabIn this project lab, students will be responsible for diagnosing failures, estimating cost of repairs, acquiring technical data and parts list for repairs, as well as performing repairs on products supplied to MTI from industry. Secondary component of this lab will involve diagnosis test out on various ATVs, motorcycles and outdoor power equipment. Corequisite: OPRV 1424 credits

OPRV151 > Intro to Diesel Engines and Air Con3 credits

> Communications Elective3 credits

Total Semester Hours19 credits

Third Semester

OPRV190 > Internship6 credits

Total Semester Hours6 credits

Fourth Semester - Marine

OPRV265 > Marine Outboard Engine SystemsStudents will explore the types of periodic maintenance that are required for different makes and models of boat, trailer & engine packages. Perform maintenance, inspection and off-season storage procedures on the product as well. Evinrude, Mercury, MerCruiser, OMC and Yamaha will be the main focus.2 credits

OPRV266 > Marine Outboard Engine Systems Lab2 credits

OPRV270 > Marine Preventative MaintenanceStudents will explore the types of periodic maintenance that are required for different makes and models of boat, trailer & engine packages. Perform maintenance, inspection and off-season storage procedures on the product as well. Evinrude, Mercury, MerCruiser, OMC and Yamaha will be the main focus.2 credits

OPRV275 > Marine Outboard Drive SystemsStudents will explore the operation, theory and diagnostics of components on an outboard drive lower unit assembly, power trim and tilt, driveshaft and swivel housing, marine corrosion and propeller design and performance. Lower unit rebuild, shim procedures will be discussed also. Evinrude, Mercury and Yamaha will be the main focus.2 credits

OPRV276 > Marine Outboard Drive Systems LabAn overview of OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) standards focusing on hazard recognition and injury and illness prevention. The 10-hour general program is intended to provide entry-level workers with awareness of hazards in and around the work site. Emphasis is placed on recognition and prevention and helps create a culture of safety. Upon successful completion the student will receive OSHA 10 certification.2 credits

WLD102 > Basic Welding2 credits

> Behavioral Science Elective3 credits

Total Semester Hours15 credits

Fifth Semester - Marine

OPRV267 > Marine Outboard Electrical Systems2 credits

OPRV268 > Marine Outboard Electrical Sys. Lab2 credits

OPRV269 > Marine Outboard Boat Rigging Lab2 credits

OPRV281 > Marine Outboard Fuel Systems2 credits

OPRV282 > Marine Outboard Fuel Systems Lab2 credits

CIS105 > Introduction to Computers3 credits

> Social Science Elective3 credits

Total Semester Hours16 credits

Fourth Semester - Motorcycle/UTV

OPRV220 > Motorcycle/UTV Power Train2 credits

OPRV221 > Motorcycle/UTV Power Train Lab2 credits

OPRV225 > Motorcycle/UTV Fuel InjectionThis course will introduce students to the intricacies of modern fuel Injection and computer control systems as they apply to motorcycles and ATVs. Students will explore fuel mapping and performance data modification utilized in both open and closed loop systems. Students will be able to complete diagnostic procedures and test operational effectiveness of fuel maps utilizing the dynamometer. Component design and engineering challenges related to fuel injection designed engines will also be discussed as well as emission standards related to product development. Basic V-Twin technology and how it relates to current fuel injection trends will also be discussed.3 credits

OPRV226 > Motorcycle/UTV Chassis LabThis course will cover frame and suspension designs and how they affect performance and dependability. A motorcycle must handle properly over bumps, in turns, during acceleration, and when stopping. This is critical to both rider safety and comfort. During the semester students will perform hands-on activities covering the fundamental inspection, service, repair, and troubleshooting procedures for motorcycle frame and suspension systems.2 credits

WLD102 > Basic Welding2 credits

> Behavioral Science Elective3 credits

Total Semester Hours14 credits

Fifth Semester - Motorcycle/UTV

OPRV236 > Advanced Motorcycle UTV Engine EFIThis course is a continuation of techniques and principles learned in OPRV 235. Students will learn intricate details of fuel mapping and how variations of the inputs determine the final performance of an engine. A detail-orientated approach to fuel injection management and diagnostic procedures utilized in industry will be the focus. Extensive lab time and firm understanding of electrical and electronic theory required.2 credits

OPRV238 > Advanced Motorcycle UTV Chassis Lab2 credits

OPRV239 > Advanced Motorcycle UTV Power Train2 credits

OPRV240 > Adv Motorcycle UTV Power Train LabStudents will be dissecting advanced motorcycle engines and disassembline and assembling them piece by piece. Every aspect of the engine will be inspected. Students will be introduced to the process of an engine rebuild and learn how to properly complete an engine rebuild. Camshaft upgrades and designs will be covered, as well as how to tune a motorcycle engine after a rebuild.2 credits

CIS105 > Introduction to Computers3 credits

> Social Science Elective3 credits

Total Semester Hours14 credits

Requirements

Computer Requirements

This program allows you to bring your own laptop as long as it meets these minimum specifications:

Processor – Intel Core i Series (i3, i5, i7) or AMD Ryzen
Operating System – Windows 10
Webcam Recommended
Memory – 4 GB or more
Internal Storage – 64 GB or more
Microsoft Office is available at no charge as long as enrolled at Mitchell Tech
NO APPLE/MAC COMPUTERS

Outcomes

Powersports & Marine Technology
At the completion of the program, graduates will be able to:

Apply safe, efficient and effective work practices
Demonstrate use of internet-based resources, industry repair manuals, and service and parts literature for repair and maintenance in the power sports and marine industry
Use new and current specialized tools to diagnose for repairs
Identify key components and their function on power sports and marine equipment
Perform preventative maintenance to marine equipment
Demonstrate basic diagnostic and repair concepts applied to select motorcycle engine, ATV engine, small engine, marine engine, power train, and chassis systems

Annual Program Review

Check out the 2025-26 Annual Program Review for information on how faculty ensure the quality and effectiveness of the program.

Faculty

Rayne Guindon

Instructor

Chris Degen

Program Coordinator / Instructor

Cost

Motorcycle Option (AAS Degree)

Other Required Costs

Books / Tools (estimated) $4,738

Marine Option (AAS Degree)

Other Required Costs

Books / Tools (estimated) $6,053

One-Year Diploma

Other Required Costs

Books / Tools (estimated) $4,425

Scholarships

Mitchell Tech offers a variety of scholarships to qualified applicants. The application period runs from October 1 through November 1 for current students and January 1 through March 31 for incoming students.

Other Related Programs

If you’re interested in Powersports & Marine Technology, you might also be interested in these other agriculture & transportation programs at Mitchell Tech.

Powersports & Marine Technology

Overview

careers

Service Technician

Motorsports Mechanic

Marine Mechanic

Sales/Manufacturer’s Rep

Small Engine Technician

Curriculum

First Semester

Second Semester

Third Semester

Fourth Semester - Marine

Fifth Semester - Marine

Fourth Semester - Motorcycle/UTV

Fifth Semester - Motorcycle/UTV

Requirements

Computer Requirements

Outcomes

Faculty

Cost

Motorcycle Option (AAS Degree)

Other Required Costs

Marine Option (AAS Degree)

Other Required Costs

One-Year Diploma

Other Required Costs

Scholarships

Other Related Programs

Agricultural Business

Agronomy

Animal Science

Diesel Power – Ag Power Technology

Diesel Power – Light Truck Technology

Precision Ag Technology

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