April 5, 2023, GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Lydia Sprik graduated from Hope College last spring, then commissioned into the U.S. Army National Guard. She was in Oklahoma for field artillery officer training until December of 2022.
Sprik was considering her next move when she found out about the GRCC Automotive Technician Job Training program.
“I’ve been friends with car people and honestly, I am inspired by anyone who is familiar with the ins and out of cars and can just fix things,” she said.
Sprik wants to be prepared for any emergency - especially if her car breaks down.
“For me, I will be a lot more comfortable in a car emergency situation if I am able to do something or at least be able to start helping myself. I think this is a great skill that I can take forward into my life, whether I do it for my job or not.”
The GRCC Automotive Technician program prepares people to perform basic automotive care and maintenance, including changing oil, checking fluid levels, and rotating tires.
Additionally, students learn shop safety, electrical systems, front end and steering systems, brake systems, ABS, heating and air conditioning, recovering and recycling, and teamwork/communication skills. Repairs are performed to manufacturer and customer specifications.
Sprik started the program the end of January and will complete the end of May. She is planning on moving to Georgia after graduation to be with her fiancé who is serving in the Army.
“I have been working with my job developer, Sydney Plaggemars, who has been super helpful. She suggested how to reformat my resume and update my new skills. Earlier this week I had a job interview with BMW.”
To become an automotive technician, students 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.
Sprik has had experience in the traditional college setting and now is experiencing a more hands-on approach to learning.
“I was a good student in high school. While in college hit I a few road bumps. I really think I just got burned out. I really like the format of this program. We do a little bit of lecture in the morning, maybe an hour, but I appreciate how limited the class time is. I have really gained the most knowledge from our time working hands-on.”
The Automotive Technician program is taught by instructor Brice Emory, who has more than 25 years of experience in the industry.
“People who go into this field or program want to learn by doing. Learning by having to wrestle with the problem is way more beneficial than just learning from a textbook,” Sprik said. “Brice is great. He is really there to help but also makes you solve problems on your own.”
GRCC holds a partnership with Chrysler Fiat to provide MOPAR CAP Level One Certification - giving students the opportunity to acquire the value credential which includes 37 certifications.
The next section of Job Training programs begins June 12, 2023. For more information grcc.edu/jobtraining or (616) 234-3800.