Article by: Judy Dickson
Yann Berger moved from Alberta to Annapolis County, Nova Scotia, while working for a local automotive employer. Ambitious to become an automotive service technician apprentice, Yann felt he had gaps in his knowledge despite his prior experience. He chose to seek training before undergoing a Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) assessment.
He registered for the Pathways to Success Tire and Maintenance Technician (TMT) Training Program, a pre-apprenticeship bridging program offered by the NS Automotive Sector Council (ASC). After earning his certificate, he completed an RPL assessment and successfully met the Competency Standard Exam and Shop Assessment requirements. This earned him a certification and 180 hours of apprenticeship credit. Although his initial employer could not offer an apprenticeship, Yann successfully joined a dealership in a larger center and is now registered as a first-year Automotive Service Technician.
Geographic and personal constraints prevented Yann from enrolling in a traditional NSCC program. He discovered the Pathways to Success program online, which features an eight-week online curriculum supplemented by 8–10 days of in-person instruction at NSCC on weekends. During this time, ASC staff provided evening remedial support to prepare candidates for the TMT Competency Exam and offered guidance on apprenticeship career paths.
Yann’s long-term goal is to achieve Red Seal certification as both an Automotive Service Technician and a Collision Repair Technician. Toward this end, he also completed the Collision Prepper Program with 100 percent success, becoming a Certified Collision Prepper.
In his program evaluation, Yann stated that he is “now confident and gained greater exposure and insight to multiple trades.” He noted significant growth in math,
communication, teamwork, leadership, and technical skills, expressing that he thoroughly enjoyed the programs despite the short training duration.
The RPL program provided Yann with a flexible pathway to reach his goals while remaining employed. With support from industry and the Automotive Sector Council, Yann now has the tools and knowledge necessary for a successful career in the trades.
If you’re ready to advance your career in the automotive trades, explore the Pathways to Success programs and Recognition of Prior Learning opportunities offered by the Automotive Sector Council. Whether you’re seeking certification, apprenticeship credit, or a flexible training pathway, ASC can help you take the next step.