Bean Automotive Group Apprentice Technicians celebrate milestone at Automotive Apprenticeship Program Graduation

August 21st, 2024 by

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Two years ago, Bean Automotive Group and Miami Dade College introduced the first-of-its-kind, one-year apprenticeship program, giving students the opportunity to build their skills and earn their certification while making a living. Students in the program attend classes held at their workplace and receive on-the-job training while working with mentors. Once students finish their program, they receive a Florida Department of Education Apprenticeship Certificate of Completion, recognized by the United States Department of Labor.

This year’s graduation ceremony took place at Bean Automotive Group’s corporate office located in Lexus of West Kendall. Executives from Miami Dade College, CareerSource South Florida, and Bean Automotive Group were present in addition to the graduates and their families. “This is a great accomplishment for the students and a great career path,” said Lori Bean, Dealer Principal of Bean Automotive Group. “The Automotive Apprenticeship Program is a great opportunity for young adults to get the tools and skills they need to be successful in their automotive careers.”

Bean Automotive Group worked closely with Miami Dade College and CareerSource South Florida to get the resources needed to provide the courses for the apprenticeship program. Through the partnership of the three entities, the apprenticeship program was born. “We would not be standing here without Bean Automotive Group’s dedication and belief that we can partner together and make these students’ dreams a reality,” said Madeline Pumariega, Miami Dade College President. “We’re creating different pathways for people to gain skills and knowledge to be successful in this economy, and that’s what these graduates have accomplished today.”

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“Some people say college isn’t for everybody, but there’s an aspect of college we all need and that’s education, the ability to take our skills to a higher level,” said Robert Parson, Assistant Director of CareerSource South Florida. “The opportunity to earn while you learn is endless, and now these graduates can walk out of here with relief, knowing they did it and are already working in their chosen industry.”