Do you enjoy a passion for cars and enjoy hands-on work?
Do you like fixing things, solving mechanical problems, and helping people at the same time?
If so, Automotive Technology might be the perfect area of study for you.
As an auto mechanic, you might use a computer to identify an engine problem or your hands to replace a part. You could build cars from scratch or work on innovative electric or hybrid vehicles. You’ll also get to perform regular maintenance, like oil changes and brake inspections, to keep things running smoothly. If this sounds like a career you’d enjoy, Guilford Apprenticeship Partners (GAP) can help you get started.
As a GAP youth apprentice, you will:
Gain the hands-on skills you need
Get paid to go to school and train
Earn a college degree for free
Interested? If you’re in high school, you can participate in a registered youth apprenticeship program to learn how to be an auto mechanic (and get paid). At the same time, you can earn an automotive technology degree for free, fast-tracking your way to a paycheck and a rewarding career.
Skills for Success as an Automotive Technician
Wouldn’t it be amazing if you could harness your strengths and interests and turn them into a rewarding career? Some of the best auto mechanics share characteristics like the ones below. If these seem familiar, automotive technology might be an excellent path for you.
Interests
- Cars
- Engines
- Electronics
- Machines
- Technology
- Repairing
- Assembling
- Troubleshooting
- Systems construction
Skills
- Mechanical ability
- Problem-solving
- Physical stamina
- Attention to detail
- Customer service
- Communication
- Hands-on work
- Time management
School Subjects
- Technical/shop class
- Electrical systems
- Computers
- Math
- English
- Business
Parents…
If this sounds like your child, discover how a GAP apprenticeship can prepare them for career success.
The Future of Automotive Technology Careers
Each year, approximately 73,300 new jobs for auto mechanic and service technicians are expected to open, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. That’s because there’s a large workforce of auto mechanics who will be retiring and will need to be replaced with younger skilled workers. What’s more, the number of vehicles on the road is expected to rise, another reason qualified service and repair professionals will be in need.
As a trained automotive technician, you’ll get to diagnose issues with cars, trucks, and motorcycles using special tools and your knowledge of vehicles. You also might specialize in specific service repairs or vehicle models.
Your apprenticeship program could get you ready for one of these roles (and others):
- Diagnostic technician
- Front-end technician
- Brake technician
- Drivability technician
- Transmission technician
Leverage your skills and passion for work within:
- Car dealerships
- Mechanic shops
- Auto parts stores
- Vehicle rental companies
Ultimately, the accelerated real-world experience you get from a youth apprenticeship can give you a head start in the field and provide you with access to a higher-paying position sooner. That means you’ll also have the chance to build up your salary quicker throughout your career.
Ready to jump-start your career?
Potential Apprenticeship Providers and Employers
At Guilford Apprenticeship Partners (GAP), we work with top automotive employers in the Piedmont-Triad area to provide the best hands-on youth apprenticeship training. Learn from experienced workers who live in your community, gain valuable skills, and develop strong connections.
Once your apprenticeship is complete, you could continue working with your apprenticeship provider as a regular full-time employee. After all, our apprenticeship partners are looking to invest in you — building their next generation of skilled, loyal workers.
Learn more about our participating employers.
FAQs
Find answers to common questions about GAP’s apprenticeship and a career as an auto service technician or mechanic.
See Where You Can Work a Youth Apprentice