CareerEdge Funders Collaborative has partnered with a consortium of eight local automotive dealerships to provide a fast-track pathway to becoming an automotive technician. Given the shortage of mechanics, CareerEdge worked with Suncoast Technical College (STC) to create an “express program” in the evenings so that entry-level employees can receive both on-the-job as well as classroom training. Participating employers include: Gettel Automotive, Sunset Auto Group, Peterson Toyota of Sarasota, Venice Honda, Wilde Automotive, Sarasota Mitsubishi and Howard Lincoln and Mazda. These organizations will hire individuals with no experience at $12 per hour for full or part-time trainee positions. The new hires must then attend the mandatory, free 11-week automotive training program at STC’s Beneva Road campus from August 21 to October 30. Once participants complete the 11-week class, they will be paid $13 per hour full time with benefits and have the potential for additional industry certifications and growth at the dealerships. No experience is required for this training and all interested applicants should apply directly to any or all of the participating dealerships using their online employment portals.

CareerEdge Funders Collaborative