CAREER DEVELOPMENT SERVICES

NEW! Tuition-Free VR Automotive Repair Training in San Jose | 5-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 + real vehicle practice

Small class size (5 students maximum)

Morning schedule (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)

Job placement support included

No prior automotive experience required

Goodwill of Silicon Valley - Job Training

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

Hands-On Practice

  • Real vehicle inspection and service
  • Application of skills learned in VR
  • Professional service procedures
  • Quality control and customer communication

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.
Goodwill of Silicon Valley - Job Training

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: June 1 – July 24

    Apply by May 4 | Orientation: Week of May 25

 

  • 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:
  • 18 years or older

  • Eligible to work in the U.S. with valid documentation

  • Resident of Santa Clara, San Benito, or Santa Cruz County

  • Comfortable with technology and virtual reality

  • Interested in automotive repair work environment

  • Available Monday–Friday mornings for 8 weeks

No Automotive Experience Required

We’ll teach you everything you need to know, starting with the basics. Not sure if you qualify? Contact us, and we’ll help you determine eligibility.

Start Your Application

Veteran Status (provide one of the following):
  • DD214
  • VA ID card or other official documentation confirming veteran status

  • Verification from the SQUARES system

Household Income (for all household members):
  • Two months of recent pay stubs

  • Most recent tax return (Form 1040)

  • Documentation for disability, pension, or retirement income

Identification & Family Information:
  • Government-issued photo ID (passport, driver’s license, or state ID) for each household member

  • Birth certificates or custody papers to confirm dependents

  • Social Security cards for all household members

Housing Verification:
  • Lease agreement, or

  • A letter from a shelter, institution, or transitional housing provider

QUALIFYING FOR SUPPORT

To participate in Veteran Family Services, the head of household—or their spouse—must be a U.S. veteran, and the household must meet low-income guidelines (at or below 80% of the area median income).

 

Our team will guide you through each step of the eligibility process with care. Here’s what we’ll need to verify:

 

Our goal is to make this process as simple and stress-free as possible, because you’ve served, and now it’s our turn to support you.