In Discussion With our Campus Director: Priming Students for Successful Auto Careers
If you’re considering a career in the automotive industry, you’ve likely considered how to stand out in a competitive field. Recently, we enjoyed speaking with our campus director, Don Punnunzio, who explained how we ensure our graduates are ready to thrive in various lucrative auto careers.
Like each ATC faculty member, Don is passionate about helping students find their path. “It’s very exciting to be part of a transitional period for students,” he said before recalling a time when he longed for more from his career. During his adventure teaching ESL in Southeast Asia, Don learned to adapt to an entirely new environment, overcome challenges, and create opportunities. Now, as our campus director, he strives to help students do the same as they navigate today’s ever-changing auto industry.
The demand for automotive professionals is there! “Right now, in Canada, over 700,000 tradespeople are set to retire,” Don said at the beginning of the discussion. That’s a huge opportunity for anyone interested in the trades but as Don pointed out, “specifically auto because everyone drives a car.” Keep reading to see how we position you to take advantage of the many opportunities available in the auto industry.
Building Skills Through Hands-on Training
One of the hallmarks of our programs at ATC Toronto is the emphasis on practical, hands-on learning. While classroom theory forms the foundation of knowledge, it’s the hands-on application that truly prepares students for the demands of the automotive industry. Our Auto Mechanic Training Program incorporates 60% practical training, ensuring that students gain direct experience with servicing wheels, performing wheel alignments, diagnosing electrical systems, and servicing gasoline engines. Graduates are ready to confidently start their apprenticeships and a wide range of exciting auto careers.
Learning From Industry Experts
Our instructors bring a wealth of field experience to the classroom. Don highlighted what ATC looks for in an instructor: “ We look at what our students are looking for. We’re looking for instructors with 10, 20, 30, even 40 years on the bench as an auto technician in various positions.”
ATC also values the energy that instructors bring to the classroom. He says of ATC instructors: “They’re good communicators, they’re excited and passionate about teaching, and it resonates because when they are in front of that class, students feel it.”
Opening Doors Through Industry Connections
Like most fields, success in the automotive industry often requires strong industry connections and opportunities to gain experience. Over our nearly 40-year legacy, ATC Toronto has built relationships with employers and industry professionals. These connections have enabled us to design automotive training programs that meet the demands of the modern automotive industry. Don shared that shops will often call looking for workers.
Your Future Starts Here: Thrive in Various Auto Careers
Don aptly stated that no student comes here for a job – they come here for a career.
More than just an education, ATC offers a path to a brighter future. With our unique combination of hands-on learning, expert instruction, and long-standing industry relationships, we help students turn their passion for automobiles into a successful career.
Watch the video below to see how we bring this mission to life daily.
Do you want to become a mechanic?
Contact ATC Toronto for information!
