Another large dealer body is ramping up its efforts to address the industry-wide need for qualified service technicians.

As part of National Apprenticeship Week, Byrider announced its service technician apprenticeship program received registration by the U.S. Department of Labor. The company underwent a rigorous process that took over five months to complete, in partnership with Ivy Tech Community College in central Indiana, one of the largest single-accredited statewide community college systems in the country. 

The apprenticeship program will begin in early 2020 at select Byrider locations in the greater Indianapolis area. Over time, the company highlighted the program will expand to include apprenticeship programs in other states and partnerships with a broad range of technical schools.

As part of the program, Byrider will offer tuition assistance for students and provide an automotive toolkit for apprentices upon completion of the program, which can cost upwards of $2,000. 

“We’re proud to announce the first-ever Byrider apprenticeship program registered by the Department of Labor. It seems fitting to announce our registration during this national week that shines a light on the importance of training and educating students about apprentice opportunities that allow them to gain valuable skills and prepare for careers in a variety of industries,” Byrider chief executive officer Craig Peters said.

“As we look to the future, creating an avenue for people to learn hands-on job skills in automotive repair will position students to grow and prosper in an industry where highly skilled technicians are desperately needed,” Peters continued.

Byrider explained that achieving Department of Labor Registration involved creating program standards by identifying key competencies, as well as designing a framework of both on-the-job and related training to ensure each apprentice is successful.

The company noted the Byrider apprenticeship program is unique in that it will provide students the opportunity to work on a wide range of vehicle models, unlike most other automotive apprenticeships that focus primarily on just one vehicle brand.  This allows students in the Byrider program to obtain broad experience on cars that range in age, make and model, which can enhance the student’s marketability and provide more job opportunities.

Official added the Department of Labor registers on average 1,600 apprenticeship programs annually across the nation. The goal of the program is to help ensure a comprehensive apprentice program experience for students and provide companies with high quality, skilled employees in a variety of industries.