Numbers dont lie: Honda is the worlds largest manufacturer of internal combustion engines measured by volume, producing more than 14-million internal combustion engines each year. That means many of the cars on the road contain Honda engines. In addition, two years ago Honda became the fourth largest automobile manufacturer in the United States, and the sixth largest in the world. With such impressive facts, it is a wise idea for those interested in the automotive world to become technicians with Honda.

Adding to that is the fact that opportunities at dealerships such as Honda are increasing, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expecting job growth in Automotive Service Technology to grow by 14 per cent from 2006 through 2016. The professionals employed by these dealerships have a variety of tasks, including: diagnosing problems using Honda diagnostic equipment; performing repairs and preventive maintenance on engines, transmissions, electrical systems, brakes and tires. Honda technicians also conduct vehicle inspections. But in order to enter the field, proper training must be acquired. Thats where Centennial College comes in. It offers an Automotive Service Technician Honda Apprenticeship, which consists of thorough but efficient training.

In order to apply for this Honda technician training program, you must already have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or a GED or equivalent. In addition, you must also be employed by a Honda dealership or be selected through an interview process. You may apply directly to Centennial College, and if successful obtain, an employer and register as a MAP apprentice with the Apprenticeship Branch of the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. The application for the Honda technician training can be completed online. It should be noted that acceptance is based on successful completion of all entry requirements and space is limited.

Centennial Colleges one-year Honda Apprenticeship focuses on Hondas engines, parts and latest technologies. That training, which also includes Acura specialization, is more in-depth with longer in-school sessions than traditional apprenticeships. In total, you spend a solid 32 weeks in school and 32 weeks in the field, for a total of 64 weeks. During this time, you alternate between Centennial and your employer every eight weeks.

Within the school sessions, there is a major emphasis on electronics and the diagnosing of computerized control systems, with the opportunity to learn other aspects of vehicle technology. Ontarios largest automotive training facility, Ashtonbee Campus, is home to the Automotive Service Technician Honda program. As such, you learn to work on systems such as electrical, body electrical, engine, transmission, steering, front-end, and all other aspects that would allow a Honda vehicle to be serviced. Please note that students in the Centennial College Automotive Service Technician Honda program may be eligible for Employment Insurance during the in-class training.

However, the real practical experience occurs during the programs apprenticeship feature. During this time you are employed by a Honda dealership and are actually compensated for you work.