What Does an Automotive Apprentice Do?

Important Facts About Automotive Apprenticeship Jobs

Hands-On Automotive Training

Automotive apprenticeships generally begin with a basic introduction new vehicle service, installation of accessories, and vehicle body service. New apprentices also gain familiarity with the basic routines and practices of the body shop in which they are working. From there, they start getting in-depth, hands-on training working with every part of a motor vehicle: the brakes, chassis, clutch, transmission, rear axle, power systems, electric systems, and hydraulic systems. Apprentices can also expect to spend a significant amount of their time on motor tuning and emissions, learning to perform tune-ups and troubleshooting mechanical and drivability issues.

Additional Coursework

Automotive apprenticeship programs require students to take classes at a local community college. This supplemental training must be in subjects related to the trade, so it can serve to augment the practical experience the student gets from full-time apprenticeship work. In total, students must complete 144 to 216 credit hours of classroom work per year.

Brand-Focused Apprenticeships

There are some apprenticeships that are sponsored by specific companies. In these programs, students build the same maintenance and repair skills that they develop in traditional apprenticeship programs, but their work is limited to one brand of car. Often, apprentices continue to work within the company when they finish.

Future Employment Opportunities

Upon completion of an automotive apprenticeship programs, individuals can find jobs as automotive service technicians and mechanics. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage among all of these workers was $46,880 per year in 2021. Job growth is expected to grow by 1% from 2021 to 2031.