Broward College Celebrates Opening of its New Automotive and Marine Center

At Judson A. Samuels South Campus

Pembroke Pines, Fla (May 3, 2017) – On Tuesday, April 25, Broward College celebrated the opening of its new 18,000 square-foot Automotive and Marine Center on the Judson A. Samuels South Campus in Pembroke Pines, Fla. The facility will accommodate students pursuing the Associate of Applied Science in Automotive Service Management Technology and the Associate of Applied Science in Marine Engineering Management degrees and related technical certificates. Classes will begin in the summer term.

“Broward College is deeply committed to the auto and marine industries, which is why we strive to provide all-encompassing programs that combine classroom curriculum with real world experiences,” said Broward College President J. David Armstrong, Jr. “It is because of our strong relationships with local dealerships and marine companies that our students receive crucial on-the-job training before graduation. The one thing all of these companies need: a pipeline to a well-educated and highly skilled workforce.”

The structure includes an overhang extension on the west side of the building which covers six automotive lifts, and a designated space for the marine program complete with outboard motors, diesel engines, and welding stations.

“The education students receive here is unmatched. Not only do we have expert professors who have been in the field many years, but our strong relationships with local automotive and marine businesses help build a bridge between hands-on experience and classroom instruction,” Russell McCaffery, dean of Transportation Programs, said.

Hands-on programming and labs were previously held at an off-site location, which meant students had to commute for classes. By relocating the practical application courses to the Judson A. Samuels South Campus, the College now provides students with a full campus life experience complete with convenient access to the Career Center, academic advising, a robust schedule of art and cultural events, as well as a Broward County Library, gym, bookstore, food service and other amenities. 

Associate of Applied Science in Automotive Service Management Technology Degree:

The automotive degree at the College is unique in that academic and auto classes are combined into a comprehensive program with Automotive Service Technician and General Automotive Service Technician certifications embedded within the curriculum of the AAS program. Students gain valuable hands-on work in the field at partner dealerships and shops across South Florida including, Aventura Chrysler, Infiniti of Coconut Creek and Vera Cadillac

Associate of Applied Science in Marine Engineering Management Degree:

The College is one of two in the state to offer a unique, in-demand AAS marine program which includes Marine Technology, Marine Systems, Marine Propulsion and Marine Electrician technical certifications embedded within the curriculum. The program currently boasts a wait list for students interested in pursuing a career in the marine industry. Broward College students regularly are hired immediately upon graduation by some of the leading maritime companies in the area including Pantropic Power, RPM Diesel, and Roscioli.

The Broward College Automotive and Marine Center is located on the Judson A. Samuels South Campus at 7200 Pines Boulevard in Pembroke Pines, Fla.

For more information, visit the Marine and Automotive program websites or contact 954-201-8087.

ABOUT BROWARD COLLEGE

Serving approximately 56,000 students annually, Broward College provides residents with certificate programs, two-year university-transfer degrees, two-year career degrees, and baccalaureate degrees in selected programs. The mission of the College is to provide high-quality educational programs and services that are affordable and accessible to a diverse community of learners. For more information, visit www.broward.edu.