Miami, Nov. 18, 2024 – This National Apprenticeship Week (Nov. 17-23), Miami Dade College (MDC) graduated the inaugural cohort of its Automotive Service Technician Registered Apprenticeship Program in partnership with Warren Henry Auto Group, LLC. Sponsored by CareerSource South Florida and the Miami-Dade Beacon Council Foundation, this program addresses the critical need for skilled automotive professionals through a unique blend of classroom instruction and paid, hands-on training.
“Miami Dade College proudly stands alongside dedicated industry partners, such as Warren Henry Auto Group, in contribution to the amplification of a highly skilled workforce for South Florida,” said Dr. Malou C. Harrison, MDC’s Executive Vice President and Provost.
The ten graduates completed a rigorous two-year program mastering competencies across diagnostics, repairs and overhauls on various automotive systems. Most apprentices entered with little or no prior experience and gained proficiency in essential automotive skills through comprehensive training and mentorship. Graduates also pursued Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification exams, a core credential that opens doors to greater earning potential and career advancement.
“ASE certifications are foundational for any successful technician,” said program instructor David Rich. “Seeing students with minimal experience grow into ASE-certified, manufacturer-certified technicians is incredibly rewarding.”
Tyler Duasso, among the graduates who achieved Master Technician status by passing all eight ASE exams, credits his success to his mentors’ support and the guidance of instructor Rich. “Our instructor played a vital role in diligently teaching everything we needed to know about vehicles, while my mentors not only helped with on-the-job training but also modeled professionalism and a commitment to excellence in the field,” Duasso said.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for automotive service technicians continues to rise. MDC’s Apprenticeship Program, which offers over 100 apprenticeships in total, provides a critical pathway without the financial barriers of tuition or tool costs. Graduates receive free classroom training, books, uniforms, and tools, allowing them to focus on developing their skills without financial strain.
“For the apprentice graduates, the successful completion of this training program is a demonstration of technical competence and a confirmation of their commitment to continuous growth and career advancement,” said Dr. Alexia Rolle, Dean of Career and Technical Education and Chair of the MDC Apprenticeship Program at MDC. Their completion highlights the effectiveness of the apprenticeship training structure and mentorship provided. Ultimately, this success validates the value of hands-on training in fostering personal and professional growth, contributing to a more resilient, skilled workforce and a thriving economy.”
For more information, visit www.mdc.edu/apprenticeships or email apprenticeship@mdc.edu.
About Warren Henry Auto Group, LLC.
Warren Henry Auto Group is a premier luxury automotive dealership group headquartered in Miami, Florida, with additional locations in North Miami, Gainesville, and Davie. Representing elite brands such as Jaguar, Land Rover, Infiniti, Lamborghini, Audi, Koenigsegg, and Bugatti, the group provides a top-tier customer experience across all locations. Employing over 500 dedicated professionals, Warren Henry Auto Group is committed to delivering excellence through its mission to provide an unparalleled automotive experience and build long-lasting client relationships. Services include new and certified pre-owned vehicle sales, state-of-the-art service and maintenance, flexible financing and leasing options, and personalized concierge services, including home delivery and VIP showroom experiences. For more information, visit https://www.warrenhenryauto.com/.
About CareerSource South Florida
CareerSource South Florida is a public-private partnership establishing state and federally funded workforce development and training policies for Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties. CareerSource South Florida provides high quality, customized employment and training solutions to workers and employers in support of economic development. Services are available to everyone at no cost through a network of centers located throughout the region. For more information on CareerSource South Florida, including valuable resources for businesses and job seekers, please visit www.careersourcesfl.com or call 305-594-7615.
About Miami Dade College Apprenticeship Program
Miami Dade College is the first academic institution in Florida to receive the designation of Program Sponsor by the Florida Department of Education (FLDOE) and named Apprenticeship Ambassador and 2024 Exceptional Achievement Award by the US Department of Labor. Currently offering twenty-two programs in various industries such as hospitality, education and information technology, MDC is dedicated to offering individuals with minimal experience an entry point into these in demand industries. As Program Sponsor, MDC is authorized to register occupations, employers, and apprentices to participate in Registered Apprenticeship and Pre-apprenticeship Programs. Apprenticeship Programs enable employers to develop and apply industry standards to training programs for registered apprentices that can increase productivity and improve workforce quality. For more information, visit https://www.mdc.edu/apprenticeships/default.aspx.
About Miami Dade College
Miami Dade College (MDC) is the most diverse institution in the nation, with 167 nations and 63 languages represented in its student body. The college’s eight campuses and outreach centers offer over 300 distinct degree pathways, including associate and baccalaureate degrees, certifications and apprenticeships. MDC is the recipient of many top national awards, including the prestigious Aspen Prize. The College changes lives through accessible, high-quality teaching and learning experiences. It is home to the Miami Culinary Institute, the Miami Animation & Gaming International Complex, the Miami Fashion Institute, The Idea Center, the Cybersecurity Center of the Americas, two AI Centers, the Center for Learning, Innovation and Simulation at the Medical Campus, the Business Innovation & Technology Center, the School for Advanced Studies and New World School of the Arts, among others. MDC has been recognized among the nation’s “Great Colleges to Work For” since the program’s inception. The College serves as an economic, cultural and civic leader for the advancement of our diverse global community. MDC alumni and employees contribute more than $3 billion annually to the local economy, and graduates occupy top leadership positions in every major industry. MDC’s renowned rich cultural programming includes the Miami Book Fair, Miami Film Festival, the National Historic Landmark Miami Freedom Tower, Koubek Center Mansion and Gardens, Live Arts Miami at MDC, the Lynn and Louis Wolfson II Florida Moving Image Archives, and the Museum of Art and Design. MDC has admitted more than 2.5 million students and counting, since it opened its doors in 1960. Approximately 125,000 students are currently enrolled. For more information, visit www.mdc.edu.