Auto Tech Apprenticeship

Ivan Valdovinos  Certified Chevrolet Technician

Ivan joined the team in August 2022. He has since graduated from Shoreline Community College and became Chevrolet Certified, as well as EV Certified with GM.

•  Where did your automotive journey begin? "I had always worked in restaurants but was really interested in cars. I wanted to learn more so I found the ASEP program at Shoreline Community College. Scott Main, the instructor at Shoreline CC referred me to Lee Johnson."

•  Do you believe the Apprenticeship Program has helped you advance your knowledge?  “School was a great investment but also wish the program was longer. I received much more hands-on experience in the shop at LJ.”

•  Is there a significant financial advantage to the program? “Yes, there is a significant financial advantage to this program, the tools are significant, and the tuition reimbursement helps.”

•  What has been the best part of the program? "Tools were a major differentiator. It gives me the ability to build on the set with specialty tools. I also found a great mentor in the shop, Conan. Bill and John are also great!"

•  What advice do you have for any future candidates hoping to be accepted into the program? "Understand that it takes time and practice. Patience is key."

“Ivan is amazing! He is very reliable and always willing to help. I’m so happy he’s a part of our team!” - Tim Anderson (Service Advisor)

 

 

Toben Stenberg  Mazda Senior Certified Technician

Toben joined the team in January 2024. He has since graduated Renton Technical College and become Mazda Senior Certified. When not at work he loves to be on the golf course.

•  Where did your automotive journey begin? "I was always working on cars as a kid. A friend of mine was working for a dealership, so I applied and joined him. This piqued my interest in becoming a technician, so I decided to go to school for it. I was attending Renton Technical College and Warren, the instructor there, told me about the program."

•  Do you believe the Apprenticeship Program has helped you advance your knowledge? “I have learned so much faster here. The classroom was good, but the hands-on experience at Mazda has made a huge difference."

•  Is there a significant financial advantage to the program? “The Tools are such a benefit, and the tuition assistance puts me in a position I’m not paying a bunch of student loans.”

•  What has been the best part of the program? "The people I work with have really helped me improve my skills. Also, the tools have been a gamechanger!"

•  What advice do you have for any future candidates hoping to be accepted into the program? "Try to absorb as much as possible learn what you can from your peers, and be helpful."

“He’s becoming a ROCKSTAR, always here early and ready to work. He has the most positive attitude and everyone in the store enjoys working with him” - David Steventon (Service Manager)