In an effort to fill skills gaps and increase the supply of skilled automotive technicians both in Western Pennsylvania and nationwide, Rosedale Technical College partnered with Mazda Motor of America (Mazda). This manufacturer-specific certification program is available as an added specialized training opportunity for students pursuing automotive training at Rosedale Tech. The partnership launched in February and has already seen a lot of success! Take a look to see more highlights from this partnership program.
Program History
As Mazda’s sales increased, the automaker saw a 30% shortage of technicians in their brand’s service centers throughout the country. Mazda structured this program in collaboration with the Greater Pittsburgh Automobile Dealers Association to specifically recruit and train individuals for brand certified technician positions in one of the regional Mazda dealerships. Mazda’s overall goal is to begin this type of certification training program at other technical schools nationwide.
“What Mazda is doing is a huge opportunity for the automotive industry and aligns perfectly with our strategic plan moving forward into the future of technical training,” said Dennis Wilke, President of Rosedale Tech.
How It Works
The Mazda Automotive Student Training (MAST) program is optional for any students enrolled in one of Rosedale Tech’s automotive programs. Once accepted to the program, students are expected to participate in a series of online certification classes in addition to their regular coursework. Program students may be paired with a senior mentor from within Mazda for one-on-one training.
As part of the partnership, Rosedale Technical College has agreed to recruit interested students to the training program. In return, Mazda trains Rosedale Tech instructors to teach the certification, as well as provide the college with Mazda vehicles, tools, parts, and other resources to use as part of the program. Upon graduation, certified technicians should have the knowledge and certifications to begin working for a Mazda dealership.
How To Apply
To be eligible to participate in the MAST program, students at Rosedale Tech must:
- Submit an application
- Maintain a 95% attendance and 3.0 GPA throughout the program
- Uphold an insurable driving record
- And meet any Mazda requested requirements
Once completed, Rosedale students can enter the workforce as a Certified Senior Technician and may be able to find full-time positions within the participating Mazda dealership.
Mazda Program Benefits
If all MAST requirements are met and maintained throughout the program, there are some amazing benefits you may be entitled to:
- Up to $4,000 in grant funding paid out throughout the program
- Up to $2,000 in tool credit
- $15,000 tuition loan reimbursement (paid out over 5 years)
- Minimum living wage for 6 months before transition to flat rate pay
- Senior Technician Certification $1,000 bonus
- Eligible for Mazda vehicle purchase or lease through RPM DRIVE program
- Automotive tool discounts
This program shows Rosedale’s commitment to raising the standards of the trades and our commitment to the betterment of our students.
For more information about Rosedale Tech’s automotive programs and the Mazda certification program, contact us today!