Career Pathways

Automotive Technician

Build practical, hands-on skills for a career in automotive service, maintenance, and diagnostics. The Skilled Trades Academy Automotive Technician pathway provides focused training for military-connected talent preparing for entry-level technician roles in a high-demand industry.

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Program Overview
Build Skills for Automotive Technician Careers

The Automotive Technician pathway prepares military-connected individuals for entry-level careers in the automotive industry. Participants gain hands-on experience using professional tools, equipment, service information systems, and industry-standard repair procedures while developing the technical and workplace skills employers value.

  • Shop Safety
  • Preventive Maintenance
  • Tire and Brake Service
  • Electrical Systems
  • Engine Performance
  • Diagnostics
Skilled Trades Academy Automotive Pathway - woman inspecting a vehicle's wheel
CERTIFICATIONS
Credentials That Open Doors

Participants earn industry-recognized credentials from Tennessee College of Applied Technology Dickson (TCAT) that demonstrate workplace safety knowledge and readiness for employment in the automotive industry.

Credentials may include:

  • OSHA 10 Certification
  • Alignments (TCAT)
  • Starting and Charging System Diagnosis (TCAT)
  • Brakes (TCAT)
  • Introduction to Scan Tool Diagnostics (TCAT)
  • Basic Automotive Electrical (TCAT)
  • General Maintenance (TCAT)
  • Automotive Systems (TCAT)
Skilled Trades Academy Automotive Pathway - man working on the frame of a vehicle
By the Numbers
Connect with employers, build practical experience, and develop skills for an in-demand skilled trade.
6
Weeks
Hands-on, cohort-based training.
$0
Cost to You
Fully funded by program sponsors, including General Motors.
120
Training Hours
Classroom instruction and hands-on lab training.
 
SKILLED TRADES ACADEMY
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Locations & Dates
Find a Cohort Near You

Clarksville, TN – Upcoming Cohorts:

  • October 12 – November 20, 2026
  • January 11 – February 22, 2027
  • March 8 – April 15, 2027
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Skilled Trades Academy Automotive Pathway - woman working on the underside of a vehicle
Frequently Asked Questions
General FAQs
The Skilled Trades Academy programs are open to:
  • Transitioning active duty service members who are SkillBridge eligible
  • Veterans
  • Military spouses
  • Working-age dependent military children, ages 18–26
SkillBridge Approved: Eligible transitioning service members may participate through the Department of War SkillBridge program during their final 180 days of service with command approval.
No degree or prior trades experience is required to participate in the Skilled Trades Academy.
Thanks to our partners, the Skilled Trades Academy pathways are free for members of the military community.
Although stipends are not part of the program, Skilled Trades Academy and all certifications are free for participants.
You may participate if you do not live at the program location, but housing will not be provided and participants are responsible for their own transportation.
Personal Protective Equipment and tools are provided; participants are responsible for their own work boots.
While you are receiving hands-on instruction, you will learn about employment resources and meet local employers. If you are currently looking for employment, here are some available resources:
  • HOH Job Board:See available positions and apply with companies interested in hiring military-connected talent.
  • HOH In-Person and Virtual Events: Events include hiring events, webinars, and career summits with companies looking for talent from the military community.
  • Hot Jobs Newsletter: HOH newsletter featuring job openings with companies actively hiring.
  • Resume Engine: Create a professional resume in minutes.
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Program partners

Supporting Automotive Technician Career Pathways

Automotive Technician cohorts are supported by partners helping military-connected talent build skills, earn credentials, and explore careers in the skilled trades.