PBSC’s Automotive Service Technician program opens doors to opportunities

Dieutaire Joseph never imagined himself working with cars, but everything changed when he heard of PBSC’s Automotive Service Technician program 20 years ago. 

Joseph, a 51-year-old Haitian immigrant, moved to the U.S. in 1998. A few years later, he began taking classes at PBSC after hearing about the College from friends. Joseph was unsure of what career he wanted to pursue. In his home country the expectation was to become a lawyer or doctor, so he initially considered going into healthcare. However, while taking healthcare classes at the Lake Worth campus he ran into a friend who was enrolled in the Automotive Service Technician program, which opened the door to a new career opportunity. 

“He told me he was there to take a tech class, and I thought that sounded interesting, so I went and signed up the same day,” Joseph said. “Eighteen months later, I was a graduate."

Joseph graduated in February 2006 and went on to work at several car dealerships, including Palm Beach Toyota and Lexus of Palm Beach. He currently works at Palm Beach County Fleet Management. He spent 10 years as an automotive service technician and for the past six years has been serving as a trade assessment and training coordinator, where he provides training to a fleet of 41 technicians.

“Everything I know is from Palm Beach State. That’s the reason I am where I am today,” Joseph said. “This program saved my life because I don’t know where I’d be without it.”

Joseph encourages students to consider trade programs because they offer a faster route into the workforce, are more affordable than a four-year degree and open the door to numerous job opportunities. While attending the program, Joseph worked full time as a cook, allowing him to earn money while training. A year after graduating, he was able to purchase a home, which he paid off in 2018.

“I would tell any student to go for it. Close your eyes and go for it,” Joseph said. “I have so many opportunities now. So many places I can go get a job. It’s unreal. Trade school can open so many doors for you.” 

For many students, Joseph’s words ring true. Alexis Guerrero, 23, earned his Associate in Arts degree at PBSC in 2021. Like Joseph, he was unsure of what career path to follow. After finishing his A.A., he worked as a handyman but always knew he had a passion for working with vehicles. Guerrero saved up money from his job and enrolled in the Automotive Service Technician program in August 2024.   “I was interested in doing a four-year degree after the A.A. but I wasn't sure what exactly I wanted to do,” Guerrero said. “I knew I had that passion for automotive because I had worked on some of my father’s vehicles doing maintenance stuff, so I thought I should give it a try.”  Since starting the program, he has learned how to use alignment machines, tire-changing machines and various other tools. He’s enjoyed the hands-on experience and feels like he’s learning something new every day. He expects to finish the program in July and hopes to work at a car dealership in Palm Beach County.  

“I recommend this program if you have a passion for it. This is a career, and you can learn so much from this program,” Guerrero said. “I'd say that if you look at  a car like a Lego piece, and you want to figure out what's wrong with it, this the program for you.” 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of automotive service technicians and mechanics is projected to grow 3% from 2023 to 2033. Florida ranks third in the nation for the highest employment levels of automotive service technicians and mechanics. In the tri-county area, Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade, the average hourly wage is $24.91, with an average salary of $51,810.  

PBSC’s Automotive Service Technician Career Certificate Program is a pipeline to talent for this growing industry. Students in the program gain hands-on experience in labs and learn theory in the classroom to achieve a full understanding of workplace practice, safety and organization. The program covers content such as environmental and safety practices, proper use of tools and diagnostic equipment and maintenance operations and shop facilities. The curriculum also prepares students for 10 different entry-level certification exams. 

The program continues to grow to meet evolving industry demands. PBSC will be the first in the state to offer training for the repair and maintenance of green vehicles thanks to $4.1million in federal funding allocated by the Dept. of Transportation and Housing and Urban Development. The College will use the funds to create a new certificate program dedicated to electric and alternative fuel vehicles on the Lake Worth campus, expected to be completed by 2026.  

“The automotive industry is constantly evolving, and our program is designed to adapt to these changes and ensure our students are prepared to lead the way,” said Doreen Singer, Program Director of Transportation Technologies Career Certificate Programs. “Our students leave the program with the skills and experience to succeed in their careers. It’s rewarding to see them thrive and contribute to Florida’s workforce."