Dec. 1, 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.
After paying to get work done on his car, Kevin Rios realized not only is he interested in fixing cars, but he can make money doing it.
“After I graduated from high school in 2019, I didn’t really know what I wanted to do,” he said. “I took a job in an HVAC warehouse and ended up feeling really stuck there. The company did not offer opportunities to move up so I knew it was time to move on.”
To become an automotive technician, people are required to be certified and licensed in the state of Michigan. Licensed technicians use precision diagnostic equipment, service manuals and hands-on power tools to diagnose and repair customer vehicles.
“I like the idea of being able to help my family and friends when their cars are not working,” he said. “Someday I hope to have my own shop. The feeling of satisfaction of being done with a car and it’s fixed. I love it!”
GRCC’s Automotive Technician program is taught by instructor Gayl Beals, who has more than 25 years of experience in the industry. Beals holds an educational specialist degree, holds MOPAR Level One certification and is accredited by Snap-on Tools.
With help from Beals, Rios has already secured a part-time job at a Ford dealership.
“A dealership is the best place to start!” he said. “They were willing to work around my school schedule and as I gain the different certifications I can work on those parts of the cars.”
Students learn braking systems, suspension, electrical, heating and cooling and computer operations. In 2016, GRCC became the only location in Michigan to partner with Chrysler Fiat to provide MOPAR CAP Level One certification, giving students the opportunity to acquire the value credential which includes 37 certifications.
“It makes me feel so good. This training is increasing my happiness,” he said. “I didn’t realize how unhappy I was before. This is a big deal not just to me but also to my parents, they are excited to see me happy and excited about work. My little brother is pretty impressed, too.”
The next section of Job Training programs begins March 14, 2022. For more information grcc.edu/jobtraining or (616) 234-3800.