Automotive Technology
Contact Staff
Mount Vernon Campus
Aaron Klesick
Department Chair
Mount Vernon Campus
360.416.7661
aaron.klesick@skagit.edu
Aaron Klesick is an ASE Master Certified automotive professional with extensive experience as a service advisor, manager, and technician. He holds an AAS in Automotive from Skagit Valley College and a BAS in Automotive Technology from Montana State Northern. Since 2019, Aaron has been teaching at Skagit Valley College, imparting his expertise to aspiring automotive professionals. His dedication to excellence and continuous learning has earned him respect in the industry. Beyond his work at Skagit Valley College, Aaron enjoys spending time with his wife Emily and three boys camping, adventuring in the outdoors, playing pickleball and about anything outdoors.
Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions relating to the program. I love connecting with the community, potential students and businesses.
Edwin Gless
Instructor
Mount Vernon Campus
360.416.7612
edwin.gless@skagit.edu
My name is Ed Gless and have always been fascinated with the automotive industry with a particular interest in the performance side of the industry. I started my career in the Navy as a diesel engine mechanic and during my time in the Navy also worked as a technician for an independent light duty diesel repair shop in southern California. I worked my way through the various positions in the shop to become the main performance specialist. I have advised and built numerous diesel trucks that have gone on to compete in various forms of national competition. During the mid-2000s, I began racing and rebuilding Chevy LS engines for local drifting competitors in the PNW. After a few years of drifting, I made the transition over to road racing and still currently race in various road racing organizations. Upon separation from service, I opened and owned my own business working as a certified engine performance specialist and tuner for a number of years. Lastly, I currently crew chief for a non-profit veteran race team and help military veterans rehabilitate through racing.
I have always been a huge advocate for obtaining professional technical training and certifications. I am a graduate of the Skagit Valley College AAS Automotive Technology program and certified as an ASE Master Technician, ASE L1 Advanced Engine Performance Specialist and ASE L3 Light Duty Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Specialist. I have professional teaching certifications in workforce training and been a multidiscipline instructor for over 20 years.
My lifelong goals are to stay as up to date as possible with the rapidly changing automotive field and ultimately help guide and mentor those who are interested in making the automotive industry their career field of choice.
Jonathan May
Customer Service/Vehicle Scheduling
Mount Vernon Campus
360.416.7920
jonathan.may@skagit.edu