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Apprenticeship Training on Prince Edward Island

Automotive Technology

In September 2005, Holland College in partnership with the Prince Edward Island Department of Education, the Prince Edward Island Apprenticeship Board and Island Industry piloted a new trades training/apprenticeship model for the Automotive Technology program.

This integrated training model provides students with a coordinated pathway taking them from pre-apprenticeship training through to a Certificate of Qualification with Red Seal. It includes all aspects of program delivery including 'on campus' training at Holland College and 'in industry' work placements. Under Provincial Legislation, registration as an apprentice working under the guidance of a journey-person or a Certificate of Qualification is compulsary for the trade of Automotive Service Technician.

For information on apprenticeship/Red Seal click here.

Automotive technology is rapidly increasing in sophistication and complexity. The growth of this industry requires technicians who can use computerized diagnostic equipment and electronic test instruments while maintaining their skills with traditional hand tools and equipment. Career opportunities in this occupation, for persons who complete formal training programs, continue to be in high demand.

Modern automotive repair facilities use computerized equipment to diagnose problems and make precision repairs or adjustments. Computer information systems also provide access to manufacturers service information, technical service bulletins and other information databases.

The Automotive Technology program is designed to allow students to develop a strong skill foundation through classroom, lab and shop learning activities. Through increased focus on employability skills, adjunct studies are an integral part of the program. An automotive technician must be well versed in computers, mathematics, reading and communication skills along with skills specific to the trade.

The Automotive Technology program has attained national accreditation status from the Canadian Automotive Repair and Service Council (CARS) National Accreditation Board, (CNAB). This accreditation is recognized nationally as the benchmark for quality automotive programs.

Program Timelines and Content

On the day that the Automotive Technology program begins, students will register with the PEI Apprenticeship Board, choosing the designated trade of Automotive Service Technician. During the three years of the program, both workplace training hours and classroom hours are all apprenticeable hours.

September - mid October

• Shop Safety
• Computer Literacy
• First Aid / WHMIS
• Customer Service and Information Retrieval
• Tools and Fasteners
• Acquire Employability Skills

Mid October - mid November

• Workplace Training

Mid November - January

• Braking Systems I and II
• Math
• Communications
• Suspension Systems
• Cooling Systems
• MVI and PDI
• Welding and Exhaust

February - mid April

• Workplace Training

Mid April - May

• Basic Electricity
• Fuel I and II

June - mid September

• Workplace Training

Mid September - December

• Service Internal Combustion Engines
• Service Automatic Transmissions/Transaxles and Components
• Service Manual Transmission/Transaxles and Transfer Cases
• Service Differential Front and Rear Wheel Drive Axles
• Acquire Employability Skills

January - February

• Workplace Training

March - mid May

• Service Fuel System
• Diagnose Engine Management Systems
• Service Cooling Systems and Climate Control
• Service Occupant Restraint Systems, Body/Trim and Accessories
• Acquire Employability Skills

Mid May - December

• Workplace Training

January - September

• Classroom training and Preparation for Interprovincial Red Seal Examination
• Upon completion of all apprenticeship requirements, students will take their Interprovincial Red Seal Examination (after a minimum of 6,000 hours) in the designated trade of Automotive Service Technician.

Admission Requirements

• Grade 12 or equivalent with credits at or above the general level;
• A valid Class 5 driver's license;
• Preference will be given to applicants with grade 11 or 12 academic English, math and physics;
• Resume including work and volunteer experience with applicable dates, membership in groups, associations or athletics, awards and distinctions, and any other information about yourself relevant to the program to which you are applying

If you have any questions concerning the Automotive Technology program, please email: motivepower@hollandc.pe.ca