General Motors Automotive Service Technicians Train at Centennial College

Opportunities at dealerships continue to increase, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expecting job growth in Automotive Service Technology by 14 percent from 2006 through 2016. One such dealership is General Motors. The Automotive Service Technicians employed by General Motors perform many tasks, including: diagnosing problems using General Motors diagnostic equipment as well as performing repairs and preventive maintenance on engines, transmissions, electrical systems, brakes and tires. To carry out their job properly these techs should not only have knowledge of GM cars, but should be able to work with their hands and have enough stamina to be under the car or bending over the hood for extended periods of time. They must also have computer proficiency to work with today’s car computer systems. Training starts with Centennial College’s Automotive Service Technician General Motors of Canada ASEP (MAP 32).

Training for this program is provided at Ontario’s largest automotive training facility. This facility is equipped similarly to a dealership, with General Motors engines, parts and latest technologies. Students work on systems such as electrical, body electrical, engine, transmission, steering, front-end, and all other aspects that would allow a GM vehicle to be serviced. They also study electronics and the diagnosing of computerized control systems. The training for MAP 32 students is actually more in-depth with longer in-school sessions than traditional apprenticeships. This gives them the advantage of having more intensive training, both in and out of school. That’s because every eight weeks, students alternate between the College and their employer for a total of 64 weeks. In the field, practical training is achieved through the apprenticeship aspect of the program. It is during this time that students are employed by a General Motors of Canada dealership and are actually compensated for their work. They train alongside industry professionals and shadow them as they perform their work. Another appealing aspect of the GM apprenticeship is that Centennial College students may be eligible for Employment Insurance during the in-class training portions.

Applying for this undertaking requires possession of, at minimum, an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or a GED or equivalent. Students are also to be employed by a General Motors dealership. However, if they are not, they may also be selected through an interview process. If you’re interested in the apprenticeship, you may apply directly to the College. The application for the Automotive Service Technician General Motors MAP 32 program is online. Once you’ve successfully been accepted, you’ll have to obtain an employer and register as a MAP apprentice with the Apprenticeship Branch of the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. Acceptance to the GM Automotive Service Tech program is based on successful completion of all entry requirements and space is limited.