SUNY Canton Announces Automotive Service Technician Pre-Apprenticeship Program
Canton, NY (03/24/2026) — SUNY Canton will be offering a no-cost automotive service technician pre-apprenticeship program this spring.
The training, offered through the college's Center for Workforce, Community and Industry Partnerships, is open to all ages and career stages and is funded through a SUNY apprenticeship grant, with additional support provided by Bill Rapp Chevrolet of Ogdensburg, a New York State Department of Labor registered apprenticeship site.
Participants will gain hands-on experience working with certified SUNY Canton instructor Mike Barney in the college's state-of-the-art automotive lab. The program also includes hands-on training in service video creation, virtual instruction to earn an Essential Skills for the Workplace microcredential, and time in the automotive lab to practice with tools of the trade. Off-site instruction will be provided by Bill Rapp Chevrolet Ogdensburg General Manager Brandon Kelley.
"This automotive pre-apprenticeship initiative in partnership with SUNY Canton creates a direct pipeline from education to employment, preparing students with the skills today's workforce demands," said Kelley.
Training dates and times are:
5-7 p.m., April 7-9
8-11 a.m., April 11
5-7:30 p.m., April 14-16
5-7:30 p.m., April 21-23
8-11 a.m., April 25
5-7:30 p.m., April 28-30
5-7 p.m., May 5-7
Participants will also complete 61 hours of virtual learning through the General Motors Service Technical Automotive Readiness Training (START) program, including certifications addressing engine repair, automatic transmissions, manual drivetrains, steering suspension, brakes, electrical systems, HVAC and engine performance. The pre-apprenticeship will conclude with employment resources and apprenticeship opportunities.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the career outlook for automotive mechanics is expected to have an average of 67,800 openings each year through 2033.
To register and to learn more: https://www.canton.edu/wcip/apprenticeships/automotive/
Discover SUNY Canton, where innovation meets opportunity. The college's career-focused educational programs emphasize hands-on and applied learning opportunities in digital design, engineering technology, health, information technology, management, public service, and veterinary technology. Faculty members bring real-world experience and exceptional academic expertise to the classroom. As a leader in online education, SUNY Canton offers unmatched flexibility with hundreds of courses and 25 comprehensive degree programs offered completely online. The SUNY Canton Kangaroos compete at the NCAA Division III level and are members of the SUNYAC. In addition to its 15 traditional teams, SUNY Canton offers coed varsity esports and cheerleading.
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SUNY Canton will be offering a no-cost automotive service technician pre-apprenticeship program this spring.
SUNY Canton
Lorette Murray, 315-386-7300Share this Story
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