Chrysler Apprenticeship Benefits Students and Employers

It is rare that college programs offer employers fully equipped employees and pays them for training them. But that’s exactly what happens through Centennial College’s Chrysler apprenticeship, officially known as Automotive Service Technician Co-op Apprenticeship (Partnered with Chrysler Canada Inc.). Aside from gaining an employee with future management, employers are eligible for up to $45,000 over four years in various federal and provincial tax incentives. Additionally, students complete certain Chrysler On-Line training, certifying them to perform specific warranty repairs during their co-op work term. But how does this Chrysler apprenticeship benefit students? Firstly, requirements for both in-school apprenticeship curriculum and an Ontario College diploma are completed within 2 years. That’s because students alternate between on-campus learning and application of what they have learned during an eight-month session with their employer.

The first eight months of the Chrysler apprenticeship is spent attending courses that include Work Place Practice & Procedures, Engine Systems, Drive Train Systems, Suspension/Steering & Brakes, Occupational Health & Safety and much more. Also covered during this time are Chrysler product description, operation, diagnostics and repair as they applies to the apprenticeship curriculum as well as Chrysler factory training, advanced diagnostics and hybrid/alternate fuels training. Diploma courses include management and customer service training, English and general education help prepare students for a broad range of employment opportunities in the automotive field. All of the Chrysler apprenticeship training is offered at Ashtonbee Campus and is fully equipped with tools of the trade as well as Chrysler cars that have been donated to the college. The mock dealership environment is great preparation for the co-op placement component at a Chrysler Canada Inc. dealership. During the on-the-job experience, students apply what they have learned, work alongside professionals with years of experience, interact with customers and prepare to tackle more advanced topics once they return to the school for a final eight months of study.

Applicants to Centennial College’s Chrysler technician apprenticeship must possess an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or General Educational Development or equivalent. Applicant may also be required to present a resume and transcript for faculty review as well as fill out a questionnaire and attend an interview. English proficiency and satisfactory results in a program admission session will also be considered during the admissions process.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects job growth in Automotive Service Technology to grow by 14 percent from 2006 through 2016. As such, this is an ideal time to take advantage of the Chrysler apprenticeship. Once in the field, Chrysler technician offer damage repair estimates, repair broken or worn mechanical components, maintain repair and service records, install equipment, components and systems; test vehicles both before and after repair as well as repairing electrical wiring, circuits and fixtures. Those who attend a Chrysler apprenticeship may also fulfill positions such as service writer/advisors, service managers, instructor/professors and auto company representatives.