Rural Routes
Your Road to an Automotive Career Starts Here.
Free, hands-on automotive training for rural Nova Scotians.
Gain the skills, confidence, and industry connections you need to begin a rewarding career in one of Nova Scotia’s most in-demand industries.
Start Your Journey
Whether you’re just entering the workforce, changing careers, or looking for a fresh start, Rural Routes is designed to help you succeed.
No previous automotive experience is required—just a willingness to learn.
Why Choose Rural Routes?
Learn Close to Home
Training is delivered in rural communities across Nova Scotia whenever possible.
Hands-On Experience
Work alongside experienced Red Seal technicians while building practical skills employers need.
Modern Automotive Training
Learn about today’s vehicles, including electric vehicle safety and modern diagnostic technology.
Build a Career
Complete training that prepares you for employment and provides a pathway toward apprenticeship.
Support Every Step of the Way
Our team works with you throughout the program—from application through employment opportunities.
What You’ll Learn
- Tire installation and repair
- Vehicle inspections
- Preventative maintenance
- Oil changes
- Brake fundamentals
- Shop safety
- Electric Vehicle (EV) safety
- Modern diagnostic equipment
- Workplace skills
Is Rural Routes Right for You?
You may be a great fit if you are:
✔ 18 years or older
✔ Living in rural Nova Scotia
✔ Looking for stable employment
✔ Interested in working with your hands
✔ Ready to learn new skills
✔ Looking for a long-term career
How It Works
- Apply online
- Meet with our team
- Begin training
- Gain real-world experience
- Start your automotive career
About Rural Routes
Building Nova Scotia’s Rural Automotive Workforce
The Automotive Sector Council developed Rural Routes to address skilled labour shortages while creating meaningful career opportunities in rural communities throughout Nova Scotia.
The program delivers industry-led training directly within rural regions, reducing barriers to participation and helping employers recruit and retain skilled workers close to home.
Why Rural Routes?
Nova Scotia’s automotive industry continues to face a growing shortage of skilled technicians, particularly in rural communities where access to training has traditionally been limited.
Rural Routes responds to this need by providing flexible, community-based training that combines online learning with hands-on instruction delivered by experienced industry professionals.
Program Highlights
- Six-month blended training model
- Tire & Maintenance Technician curriculum
- Electric Vehicle safety training
- Apprenticeship pathway with up to 180 hours of apprenticeship credit
- Industry mentorship
- Employer partnerships throughout Nova Scotia
Supporting Employers
Rural Routes helps employers:
- Build local talent pipelines
- Recruit entry-level technicians
- Reduce workforce shortages
- Support apprenticeship development
- Access industry-ready graduates
- Strengthen succession planning
Participating employers play an active role by providing mentorship, practical learning opportunities, and industry insight that help participants transition successfully into the workforce.
Supporting Communities
Rural Routes strengthens communities by:
- Creating local employment opportunities
- Expanding access to skilled trades training
- Supporting newcomers and underrepresented groups
- Encouraging young people to build careers in rural Nova Scotia
- Helping employers retain skilled workers in their communities