About the Program
Turn your passion for vehicles into a career. The Automotive Trades Pathway Program is a no-cost training program offering hands-on instruction from industry professionals, industry-recognized certifications, and career coaching. When the introductory training ends in the Fall, you’ll earn a $350 completion bonus and receive job search support to launch your automotive career. Want to keep building your skills? Continue training into the Spring while working in an automotive role and earning up to $4,000 in stipend support.
Program Details
- The 14-week Fall training run by JVS and CCSF will run from September 10 – December 17
- Participants can choose to continue in the Spring, gaining experience in an entry-level automotive role, continuing their training, and earning a weekly stipend (January – June, 2027)
- Earn industry-recognized credentials, including OSHA 10 and Forklift, plus structured ASE test preparation
- Receive a $350 completion bonus upon successful completion of the Fall Training program
Eligibility
- Must be a resident of the San Francisco Bay Area, San Francisco residents are prioritized
- Must be able to provide a U.S. high school diploma, GED, or equivalency with translation
- Should have a valid legal authorization to work in the U.S.
- Must be available and present for the entire duration of the program
- Must have a Valid CA driver’s license
- Prior to applying, please review JVS’s full program eligibility requirements and FAQ
What You’ll Learn
- Foundational Automotive Curriculum: Build a strong foundation in automotive systems through CCSF’s Introduction to Automotive in-person lecture and hands-on lab course
- Industry-Recognized Credentials: Earn and prepare for employer-valued credentials, including OSHA 10, Forklift Safety, and Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certifications
- Paid Advanced Training: If you decide to continue in the Spring, gain real-world experience in an entry-level automotive role while taking advanced coursework and earning up to $4,000 in stipend support
- Job Search Support and Career Coaching: Receive personalized career coaching, resume and interview preparation, and job search and pre-apprenticeship support
Career Snapshot
As of 2026, the average entry-level wage for an Automotive Technician in San Francisco County is between $18 – $23 an hour, but the long-term career can lead to much higher wages, with technicians with 10+ years of experience making $65+ an hour. This job is also in very high demand, with a 73% shortage of technicians in the city. The skills gained in this program open doors beyond cars into fleet, transit, heavy-duty repair, and more.
Some possible career pathways for this occupation include:
- Fleet Maintenance Master Mechanic
- Diesel Engine Specialist
- Journeyman Mechanic
- Automotive Body and Related Repairer
- First-Line Supervisor of Mechanics
~ Jamice, Apprentice Automotive Machinist
The tuition and fees of each of our programs is $20,000 per person, but are no charge for participants thanks to our generous supporters. We invest heavily in our training programs to help you advance your career without financial barriers. Whether you’re starting out or looking to change careers, our training can open new doors and empower you to take the next step in your professional life, all at no cost to you.
Jobseekers
