CAREER DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
Automotive Repair Training
NEW! Tuition-Free VR Automotive Repair Training in San Jose | 8-Week Program
Learn Auto Repair with Cutting-Edge Virtual Reality Technology
Earn two ASE certifications and start your automotive career using advanced VR technology. Practice diagnostics and repairs in an immersive virtual environment before working on real vehicles, all at no cost to you.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
✓ 8 weeks of free VR and hands-on training (160 hours)
✓ 2 ASE entry-level certifications included
✓ Virtual reality simulation
✓ Small class size (5 students maximum)
✓ Morning schedule (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
✓ Job placement support included
✓ No prior automotive experience required
What You’ll Learn:
Our innovative program combines virtual reality simulation with hands-on practice to prepare you for entry-level automotive technician roles:
Automotive Fundamentals
- Automotive safety procedures and shop protocols
- Vehicle systems and components overview
- Tool identification and proper use
- Diagnostic techniques and troubleshooting
VR Simulation Training
- Oil change procedures and fluid maintenance
- Brake system diagnosis and repair
- Steering and suspension components
- Maintenance and light repair techniques
- Safe work practices in virtual environment
Career Readiness
- Resume building and interview preparation
- Shop professionalism and customer service
- Job search strategies for automotive careers
- Workplace communication skills
Certifications Earned:
Graduate job-ready with industry-recognized ASE credentials:
- ASE Entry-Level Maintenance and Light Repair Certification
- ASE Entry-Level Brakes Certification
These nationally recognized certifications qualify you for entry-level positions at dealerships, repair shops, and automotive service centers.
After Graduation
Typical Entry-Level Roles:
- Automotive Service Technician
- Lube Technician
- Automotive Maintenance Technician
- Quick Service Technician
- Entry-Level Auto Tech
Career Advancement Path:
Entry-Level Tech → Service Technician → Master Technician → Shop Foreman
Course Details
Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM (mornings only)
Duration: 8 weeks (160 hours)
Location: Goodwill of Silicon Valley, 1600 Technology Drive, San Jose
Cost: Free
Upcoming Sessions:
Spring 2026: March 9 – May 1
Apply by February 9 | Orientation: Week of March 2
Summer 2026: May 11 – July 2
Apply by May 1 | Orientation: Week of May 4
Fall 2026: August 31 – October 23
Apply by July 31 | Orientation: Week of August 24
Limited to 5 participants per session. Apply early to secure your spot.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for anyone interested in starting an automotive repair career, including:
- People seeking stable careers in a growing industry
- Career changers interested in hands-on technical work
- Those unemployed or underemployed
- Tech-savvy individuals comfortable with VR
- Anyone curious about automotive technology
Basic Requirements:
Our mission is to help individuals who currently face barriers to employment launch a rewarding new career. To ensure every participant has the best possible chance of reaching graduation and securing a job, you must meet the following criteria to be considered for enrollment:
- Comfortability with technology, especially virtual reality
- Comfortability with an automotive repair working environment
- Must be a resident of Santa Clara County*
- Must be 18 years of age or older and interested in securing meaningful employment in automotive repair with opportunities for economic growth
- Must have a valid authorization to work in the United States, such as U.S. citizenship, permanent residency, or an employment authorization card
- Unemployed or underemployed (e.g. earning less than $52,000/year)
- Able to arrive on time at, and actively participate in, all class sessions and activities
- In a stable living situation (a safe, consistent place to stay)
- Have a solid plan in place for caregiving responsibilities
- If justice-impacted: not currently awaiting trial or sentencing for a charge that could result in incarceration
- Able to learn and communicate effectively in English**
- Committed to securing employment in the field in which you receive training
- Valid California Driver’s License
- Clean driving record
*We will consider residents of adjacent counties (San Benito, San Mateo, Alameda, and Santa Cruz) for enrollment on a space-available basis and provided other requirements are met.
**All of our courses are taught exclusively in English, and unfortunately, we don’t have the capacity to provide translation for those who cannot learn and communicate in English.
Not sure if you qualify?
If you’re facing challenges in any of these areas or have questions about your specific situation, please reach out to us via email: cte@goodwillsv.org. Our team is here to talk through your options and may be able to connect you with resources to help you get ready for a future session.
