Create a Long lasting Career as a General Motors Technician

If you've ever considered a career in the automotive sector, now is a great time to obtain an education in the area from a reputable post-secondary institution. That's because the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects job growth in Automotive Service Technology by 14 per cent from 2006 through 2016. One popular area of this field is that of a General Motors expert. This person is familiar with all GM vehicles and essentially makes a career for him or herself at a dealership with the company or in another related workplace. But how do you go about this?

Centennial College in Toronto, Ont. offers a program through which students can obtain General Motors technician training via in-school sessions as well as ones with an employer. In order to apply, you must possess at minimum, an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or a GED or equivalent. You must also 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. 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. Check out the online application for this GM technician training.

The training students receive in this GM program is more in-depth with longer in-school sessions than traditional apprenticeships. This gives students the advantage of having more in-depth knowledge, both in and out of school. The program lasts 64 weeks in total, which are split evenly between employment and school, with students alternating every eight weeks.

GM technician training at Centennial College is facilitated through the province'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. In addition, students of GM technician training may be eligible for Employment Insurance during the in-class training portions.

Meanwhile, during their filed practice, students are employed by a General Motors of Canada dealership as a General Motors technician and train alongside industry professionals, who share with them anecdotes and their own experiences. During this time, students are compensated for their work.

Upon graduation, General Motors technicians 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).