So apparently, the next generation thinks being a car technician is a poor career path, which has resulted in a manpower shortage at California dealerships. Plus, the workforce is aging. The California New Car Dealers Association (CNCDA) Foundation, in partnership with Automotive Apprenticeship Group (AAG), is addressing this issue with a highly incentivized apprenticeship program ideal for young aspirants who opt to skip college.
This free two-year program offers on-the-job training with a competitive wage. It is the Foundation’s solution to the lack of young car technicians, estimated to be around 5,000. The best part? The program guarantees a job placement. Sounds like spoon-feeding, but hey, cars won’t fix themselves, with Californian dealerships servicing 33.8 million vehicles last year.
A win-win situation
The program allows apprentices to conduct OJT training at local dealerships, giving them a clearer picture of what an actual day in the office looks like. A dedicated AAG career manager will also supervise each apprentice throughout the program. If they make it to the end, they will receive a national certification from the U.S. Department of Labor.
Aside from the theoretical and practical lessons, the program aims to debunk the misconception that no one can make a comfortable living fixing cars at dealerships. On a recent CNCDA survey, experienced technicians earn about $100,000 to $200,000 annually upon certification. Kim McPhaul, president of the Foundation, said, “For a young adult or anyone who is career-minded, being an auto technician is a career that can support a person for the rest of their life.”…