Recently, AYCE Employment Services, in conjunction with Brimell Collision in Scarborough, Ont., hosted a pre-apprenticeship training program registration fair for auto body collision and damage repair. Events like this are designed to address the shortage of skilled labour in the collision and auto repair industries while providing good career opportunities for youth who otherwise might not be granted them.
Although in the past, such events have normally been conducted at locations like Metro Hall or Scarborough Civic Centre, Mark Tremblay, program coordinator, said that this year, they decided to change things a little and conduct the fair right inside a collision centre, giving students the chance to actually see what goes on behind the scenes and foster a greater understanding of the training and career they are applying for.
Speaking with Canadian auto dealer, Tremblay said the pilot project had proved “overwhelmingly positive” with applicants. “We took them on tours of the facility and judging by the response we received, there has been a lot of enthusiasm. It looks like we will have a strong class this year.”
The 2014 training program, which is free to students, runs from April 7, to November 21 and will include:
- An introduction to the basics of the Auto Body Collision Trade;
- An introduction to the Automotive Service Technician Trade;
- 6 weeks of pre-employment training, including interview preparation, resume writing, WHMIS training and job coaching;
- Level 1 Auto Body Collision and Damage Repair course at Centennial College;
- Toolkit and course materials;
- Connections with employers who will provide industry information and answer your questions;
- Tours of local Auto Body repair shops;
- A 12 week paid work placement with an employer.
For more information on AYCE Employment Services and the opportunities it offers for both students and employers, visit: ayce.on.ca
