Vancouver Community College is launching four automotive training programs aimed at helping British Columbia dealerships and service operations build a stronger pipeline of technicians with electric and hybrid vehicle skills.
The new programs were developed with input from the automotive industry and will provide training in areas including high-voltage battery systems, EV traction motors, automotive electronics, environmental standards and parts management for conventional and electrified vehicles.
For dealers already facing technician recruitment and retention challenges, the programs could provide both new entrants to the trade and additional training options for existing employees as electrified vehicles become a larger part of the service mix.
“Now is an exciting time to be working in the automotive industry as we’re seeing a huge expansion in the roles and skills needed within the field,” said Brett Griffiths, Dean of Trades, Technology, and Design at VCC.
“VCC partnered closely with industry to develop these programs. This has ensured our automotive training gives students hands-on experience and industry connections, helping them enter a field with strong future job prospects.”
The four new offerings include an Automotive Electronics Repair certificate and an Automotive Logistics and Service Operations – Zero Emissions diploma.
VCC is also launching microcredentials in Electric Vehicle Conversion and Zero Emissions Vehicle Service and Technology. The shorter programs are intended to give working technicians and other industry employees a more flexible way to develop specialized skills.
The programs will be open to both new students and people already working in the automotive sector who want to upgrade their skills or move into roles involving EVs and other advanced vehicle technologies.
Enrolment is open, with several programs beginning in September 2026 and additional intakes planned throughout the year.
VCC said the initiative is intended to help address a shortage of technicians qualified to service electric and hybrid vehicles, while supporting dealerships and repair facilities looking to reduce service delays and expand their technical capacity.
The college is also building a new Centre for Clean Energy and Automotive Innovation at its Broadway Campus. Scheduled to open in 2027, the facility will provide expanded training space and equipment for automotive and clean-energy programs.
