8-month foundation certificate program
Registrations are now open for September 2026. Apply early as space is limited.
Automotive skills that take you places
The tiwšɛmawtxʷ Automotive Service Technician program is designed for people in the qathet region who enjoy working with their hands, solving mechanical problems and building practical skills that last a lifetime.
Develop your professional skills working with vehicles, tools and technology while learning from experienced instructors in a small class setting. This hands-on training prepares you for a wide range of automotive careers while offering a clear pathway to apprenticeship and long-term employment.
Learning locally means gaining in-demand skills close to home, with strong connections to regional employers and opportunities to build a future in your own community. Don’t believe us? Try finding a local automotive technician who isn’t a VIU alumni!
Learn more about the VIU Automotive Service Technician program
Chance Rivest
Auto Mechanic
I took automotive foundation at VIU tiwšɛmawtxʷ as a dual credit program for my 12th year education. The Automotive program helped me develop the hands on skills and knowledge required to pursue an apprenticeship in the trade at a local auto shop. At 22 years old I completed the Red Seal program at VIU Nanaimo where I received my certificate of qualification.
Today I find myself a Red Seal certified technician employed by Massullo Motors LTD, in Powell River.
Career opportunities
As a graduate of the Automotive Foundation program you can work in many other roles including:
- automotive technician
- service advisor
- parts person
- autobody and collision repair specialist
- self-employed technician
- automotive service writer
Automotive apprenticeship training
Enrol for technical apprenticeship training for Levels 1, 2, 3 and 4 at our Nanaimo campus following completion of the Automotive foundation program.
Learn about automotive apprenticeship
Program start dates and deadlines
Registrations for September 2026 are open. Apply early as space is limited.
Connect with a tiwšɛmawtxʷ Student Services advisor or visit our campus to start your career in the automotive industry.
If you are interested in taking the Automotive Service Technician Foundation program as part of the Dual Credit program with Brooks Secondary School, you must apply via Brooks.
The tiwšɛmawtxʷ Auto Shop
Our Automotive program operates out of a working auto shop. Learn more about having your vehicle repaired or serviced. Students love the opportunity to get community members’ vehicles safely back on the streets.