Automotive Careers

The thriving automotive industry is forecasted to experience continued growth in the coming years. Nowhere is that more evident than here in North Carolina. With Toyota Battery Manufacturing North Carolina – Toyota’s first North American lithium battery factory – being built in Greensboro’s backyard and expected to begin operations in 2025, many are eager to secure one of the 2,000-plus jobs promised at the factory. But the battery plant is just one of many possible career pathways into the automotive industry.

Local community colleges and apprenticeship programs are making it possible for young people – some still in high school – to begin working toward technician careers in automotive system technology. The technology in automobiles is rapidly changing as the push for electrified vehicles intensifies, meaning the industry is in need of workers with the latest automotive training and skills.

Many of these local opportunities for quick advancement in the auto industry offer on-the-job training at dealerships, the ability to earn wages while still in school, and invaluable mentorship from skilled technicians in the field. Toyota of Greensboro is a proud participant in the Toyota TACT program, where new technicians are paired with a mentor and are taught new skills and leadership fundamentals. Ultimately, the goal is to get as many people on a solid, rewarding career path as possible.

Find descriptions and links to more information about the programs above and other community college programs and apprenticeships below.

Toyota T-Ten Program at Forsyth Technical Community College

The T-Ten Program at Forsyth Tech is a registered apprenticeship program supported by participating Toyota and Lexus dealerships in North Carolina. Students in the T-Ten program work toward an Associate Degree in Automotive Systems Technology while earning a wage through training at participating dealerships. For more information, visit: https://www.t-ten.com.

Southeast Toyota Apprenticeship Career Training (TACT) Program

Southeast Toyota launched the TACT program in 2020 with the goal of helping technicians succeed by developing their technical skills, leadership ability, and ideal career path. With TACT, technicians are paired with a mentor, and the educational cost is covered by the participating Toyota dealership. As employees advance through TACT, they earn valuable certifications and receive pay increases. For more information, visit: https://exploretoyota.com/toyotaapprenticeshipprogram/.

Guilford Apprenticeship Partners

The Guilford Apprenticeship Partners (GAP) program gives Greensboro-area high school juniors and seniors a jump start on their careers. Apprentices get paid for learning on the job and for their college class time. GAP apprentices earn an Associate Degree from Guilford Technical Community College, a journeymen’s license, credentials, and more all at no cost to you, the student. Among the many career pathways included in the GAP program are automotive repair and collision repair. For more information, visit: https://gapnc.org/apprenticeships-in-greensboro/. GAP applications are due January 31st—so don’t wait to apply and sign up to attend a GAP company open house and tour at gapnc.org.

Guilford Technical Community College Automotive Programs

Ford Automotive Student Service Educational Training (ASSET)

The Ford ASSET program is the product of a partnership between Ford Motor Company, Ford/Lincoln dealerships, and GTCC, allowing students to get on-the-job training at sponsoring Ford and Lincoln dealerships while earning an Associate Degree in Automotive Systems Technology. New Ford and Lincoln training vehicles are available for hands-on instruction at GTCC. Additionally, Ford Motor Company provides the college with components, tech data, computer-based training products, and Ford specialty tools to ensure that the ASSET students get the best possible training to prepare them for a career as a Ford service technician. For more information, visit: https://www.gtcc.edu/academics/academic-programs/programs/manufacturing-transportation-construction/ford-asset-program.php.

Automotive Systems Technology – General Program

The Automotive Systems Technology Program at GTCC provides students a chance to learn a high-demand, skilled trade. GTCC offers a curriculum aimed at getting students into the workforce quickly and effectively. GTCC trains students on state-of-the-art equipment by using the industry-endorsed ASE-based curriculum. For more information, visit: https://www.gtcc.edu/academics/academic-programs/programs/manufacturing-transportation-construction/automotive-systems-technology.php.

Collision Repair and Refinishing Technology

GTCC offers a Collision Repair and Refinishing curriculum with training on state-of-the-art equipment using the industry-endorsed I-CAR curriculum. GTCC’s collision repair program is NATEF accredited and has won the Skills USA state championships for collision repair 13 times between 2002 and 2017. The Collision Repair Program at GTCC offers three pathways: certificate, diploma or AAS Degree. For more information, visit: https://www.gtcc.edu/academics/academic-programs/programs/manufacturing-transportation-construction/collision-repair.php.