May 5, 2021, GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – GRCC Workforce Training programs provide in-demand skills leading to rewarding careers. Each Wednesday we’ll meet students who are heading down an educational pathway and changing their lives by earning occupational certificates.
Alex Estrada always liked to play around with fixing cars. After attending two semesters of credit classes, Alex knew that this way not the path for him.
“I tried taking a more traditional approach but it just wasn’t right for me. I wanted something I could get done fairly quickly that would really get my foot in the door”
Indonesia Carpenter, also started out on the pathway her mom wanted her to take. She took some general education classes at GRCC then pursued an engineering degree at Ferris State University.
“It was just really bad timing. I was living in the dorms and taking all of my classes online due to COVID. I met no one. I started thinking more about what I really want to do and I kept coming back to automotive technology. My grandpa worked on cars. He was his own boss and it gave him so much freedom. That is what I want to do.”
Both Estrada and Carpenter are students in the Automotive Technology Job Training program at GRCC. Both are doing well and loving it.
“Mr. B (Prof. Gayl Beals) is so great! He makes it easy to understand and sets goals that you can really achieve.” Estrada said. “The hands-on part of class is just fun. I wish we had class on Fridays!”
Carpenter said, “I can remember taking a tour of the M-TEC in the seventh grade and thinking it was really cool! Now, what I really like is not only am I learning skills that I need, but everyone is so kind. The teacher and other students are always so helpful.”
The Job Training Automotive Technician Program prepares students to diagnose, service and maintain automotive and light trucks. Students become certified through the State of Michigan in brakes, suspension, heating/air conditioning and electrical systems. In 2016, GRCC became the only location in Michigan to partner with Chrysler Fiat to provide MOPAR CAP Level One Certification – giving you an opportunity to acquire this valuable credential as well.
Participants also gain knowledge in automotive repair facility policies, procedures and safety. Training is provided in a combination of classroom activities and hands-on instruction using advanced tools, equipment and facilities.
Students perform service, repairs and maintenance on customer vehicles and on GRCC training vehicles. Michigan Mechanic Certification tests will be administered after each program module is completed.
Anyone interested in gaining career skills through GRCC Workforce Training can connect via email at workforcetraining@grcc.edu, and by phone at (616) 234-3800. Additional information is at grcc.edu/programs/job-workforce-training.