Apprenticeship is a great way to develop employable skills while working and earning a paycheck. In fact, apprentices are required to find a job before they go to school. On the job, you’ll typically work under the direction of a journeyman who provides instruction as you gain experience. Your college study periods are short, usually about two months long, allowing you to build theoretical knowledge and more advanced practical skills. Apprenticeship programs require you to attend college once a year for three or four years. Mostly referred to as mechanics, automotive service technicians perform preventative maintenance, diagnostic testing and repairs to cars and light trucks. Our program takes students through every part of the automobile and the accessories attached to the vehicles. You will be taught how to adjust, test and repair engines and powertrain systems, steering and brakes systems, fuel and ignition systems, and electrical systems. You will learn how to identify and replace worn or damaged parts, how complex vehicle systems operate and how to diagnose those systems. Scheduled maintenance items such as oil changes are also taught. This field is most rewarding for those who enjoy doing precise work that is varied and challenging. Automotive service technicians also enjoy on-the-job security, a feeling of independence and constantly changing technology. All four years of this apprenticeship program are available through Medicine Hat College and all trades programs offered by the apprenticeship branch are transferable. We offer small class sizes, individualized attention and access to updated technology.

Automotive service technicians are employed by automotive repair shops, specialty repair shops, service facilities, car and truck dealerships, and by large organizations that own fleets of vehicles. The automotive service technician trade allows you to work on vehicles in a repair shop, step-up into a foreman position, advance to service management positions, or own your own repair shop. Journeyman wages vary, but generally range from $25-$40 an hour with benefits. Many of our students have gone on to secure positions with local employers or used their education and skills to start their own business.