Sheridan Technical College collaborates with Mazda to offer new automotive technician training program in South Florida

Fort Lauderdale, Florida – Sheridan Technical College is teaming up with Mazda North American Operations to introduce the Mazda Automotive Student Training (MAST) program, a unique training opportunity designed to prepare students for careers as Mazda Senior Certified Technicians. Set to launch this August, the MAST program is the first of its kind in South Florida, offering a pathway to immediate employment at Mazda dealerships.

The MAST program, originally established by Mazda in 2019, combines essential automotive education with specialized training and certification that is tailored specifically to Mazda vehicles. This partnership between Sheridan Technical College and Mazda comes in response to the growing demand for skilled automotive technicians in the region, particularly in Southern Florida.

“This is a tremendous opportunity for our students and our community,” said Cara Daniel, Director at Sheridan Technical College. “By connecting our students with industry-specific training, we are helping create a workforce that is ready to meet the demands of the automotive industry.”

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Mazda’s initiative is not only focused on providing education but also on addressing the significant shortage of technicians in the area. Tim Kosnar, Program Manager for Mazda Technical Training, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership: “Mazda is pleased to partner with Sheridan Technical College to address the technician shortage in Southern Florida, a rapidly growing market. The MAST program also partners with Mazda dealers to provide graduates with mentorship, significant vehicle discounts, and hiring bonuses.”

The program, which will be offered at Sheridan Technical College, blends classroom instruction with hands-on experience, allowing students to receive both general automotive education and the specialized knowledge needed to work with Mazda vehicles. The program ensures that students graduate with the skills needed to earn the prestigious title of Mazda Senior Certified Technician, making them highly competitive candidates for employment at Mazda dealerships.

Sheridan Technical College has been a cornerstone of vocational education in Broward County since its establishment in 1968. Known for its robust career training programs, the college offers over 50 high-wage, high-skill training opportunities in fields like healthcare, information technology, and now, automotive services. The collaboration with Mazda further strengthens the college’s commitment to meeting the needs of the local workforce and providing students with opportunities for high-paying careers.

Students who complete the MAST program will not only be equipped with technical skills but will also benefit from valuable industry connections. Mazda dealerships will provide mentorship, ensuring that graduates have support as they begin their careers. In addition, graduates will receive vehicle discounts and hiring bonuses, providing added incentives to pursue a career with Mazda.

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For more information about the Mazda Automotive Student Training program at Sheridan Technical College, interested individuals can visit the college’s website at sheridantechnicalcollege.edu. Those seeking further details can also reach out directly to the program instructor, Edgard Solis, via email at [email protected] or by phone at 954-200-0574.

As the demand for skilled automotive technicians continues to rise, the partnership between Sheridan Technical College and Mazda represents a significant step in addressing the workforce shortage while providing students with an invaluable opportunity for career advancement in the automotive industry. The launch of the MAST program promises to be a game-changer for both students and the region’s automotive sector.