Celebrating Growth Through The iTAC Apprentice Program
In honor of National Skilled Trades Day we want to highlight something that means a lot to us: helping people build their career through hands-on learning. How do we support this? Through our Washington State Certified Apprentice Program through NWACA in their iTAC program.
This year marks a big milestone for us: we celebrated the graduation of our first Apprentice to complete the iTAC program! At the same time, we have welcomed a new Apprentice into the same journey. It's a full-circle moment that shows just how important hands-on learning and mentorship can be in our industry. We believe that skilled trades creates a lasting opportunity – not just for individuals, but for our whole community.
Why We Joined the iTAC Program
There was a time when Washington State didn’t have a certified apprenticeship program for automotive technicians. But that changed with the launch of the iTAC Program, the Independent Technicians Automotive Committee, which was created to fill that gap. Our shop joined early on because we knew how much this kind of training was needed, both for our shop and the future of the industry.
When I asked Troy why he was so eager to jump into this program he said this:
"It was something that was missing here in Washington State. Give a shout out to Wayne Bridges because he was basically the one who developed this program. He put so much time and energy into this program to make it happen. That’s a huge deal! Because many places don’t have this.” — Troy Vaninetti, Graham Auto Repair Business Owner
The iTAC program helps anyone new to the automotive industry to get started with a clear, structured path to a career in automotive repair. It’s not just about turning wrenches — it’s about growing confident, capable professionals through real-world experience, education, and support.
Supporting Veterans Through VA Benefits
We’re so thankful for the opportunity to work with the iTAC team to complete the steps needed for VA approval. The iTAC program is now listed as a VA-approved apprenticeship at Graham Auto Repair. This allows eligible Veterans and their dependents to use their benefits while working and learning in our shop.
With several of our apprentices qualifying for those benefits, this step has made a real difference in their ability to build their careers while supporting themselves and their families. It's one more way we can give back to those who have served, and create meaningful opportunities within our community.
How the Program Works
The iTAC program offers three apprenticeship paths:
- General Service Technician (GST) 2,000 hours
- Master Service Technician (MST) 8,000 hours
- Automotive Service Advisor (ASA) 2,000 hours
At Graham Auto Repair, our current Apprentices are working through the MST track. This is an 8,000-hour, hands-on training program combined with structured instruction and mentorship in our shop. As apprentices grow in skills, they also grow in pay. And when they complete the program, they walk away with a certification from the State of Washington — leaving them well-prepared to pass their ASE certification exams. If you’d like to learn more about this program, check out the NWACA website.
Asking Our Team What This Program Means to Them
Bart is our first graduate from iTAC, completing the Master Service Technician program with us at Graham Auto Repair. After serving our country for 20 years in the United States Army, Bart chose to embark on a new journey in the Automotive Industry. As someone who always puts his full heart and dedication into everything he does, Bart first attended Bates Technical College. He completed both the Automotive Mechanic and Diesel Technology Programs. He then reached out to us to join our MST Apprentice Program. He shared with us how the iTAC Apprentice Program benefited him the most:
“It helped prepare me for completing the ASEs. It’s a really good training tool to help technicians gain hands-on knowledge, in order to become ASE certified.” — Bart, Production Manager & Master Automotive Technician
Amber pointed out how valuable this type of program is for those who may not feel at home in a traditional classroom setting:
“This program gives opportunities to people who can’t afford school or for whom school is just not in their interest. For a lot of people, sitting in a classroom just isn’t their thing. They will also transfer any school credit from the trade school that you already have. That starts them already having hours put towards the program when they start.” — Amber, Talent & Brand Development Manager
Lacie added that this program is very beneficial for those who are struggling with any financial barriers:
“It can be difficult when you are trying to go to school full-time to have a full-time job at the same time. This program makes it possible for them to earn a living to support themselves and their family, while they are completing on-the-job training.” — Lacie, Marketing & Community Outreach Coordinator
Robert also shared his perspective on what makes the program so special:
“It’s good all around really. You gotta think about it from the Apprentice perspective. Free education, a paycheck, and a hands-on mentor. That’s not a bad thing. You just have to put in the work!” — Robert, iTAC Apprenticeship Coordinator from NWACA
Welcoming Isaiah – A New Beginning
Just as Bart finished his final hours, we welcomed our newest Apprentice, Isaiah. At only 18 years old, Isaiah has already been part of our team for two years, starting as a technician assistant while he was still in high school.
Isaiah overcame some early personal challenges and stayed focused on his goals. He graduated early from high school and stepped into the Apprentice Program this February 2025. Now he’s partnered with his mentor, Shane, who had this to say about Isaiah:
“Isaiah is willing to learn and he’s not afraid to try new challenges. And when he needs help or doesn’t understand something, he’s not afraid to ask questions. He works hard and is dedicated here. I look forward to having more one-on-one time with him, to help him go even further.” — Shane, ASE Certified Journeyman Technician & Mentor
Isaiah’s journey reminds us exactly why we’re committed to this program. We want to provide opportunity, guidance, and a clear path forward for Automotive Technicians who are starting out!
Looking Ahead to The Future
As we celebrate Bart’s graduation, we’re excited to see Isaiah beginning his path — and we’re cheering on our other Apprentices, Daniel and Sean, who continue their journeys with us as well. Both have come a long way in their Apprenticeship programs. Like Bart, both have already begun earning their ASE Certifications.
This isn’t only about job training. It’s about giving people a chance to grow, to build a career, and to contribute something meaningful — all while serving our community.
Learn More About Our Apprentice Program
If you’re curious about the iTAC Apprenticeship Program or know someone who may be a great fit, you can learn more on our Apprentice Program page:
👉 Click here to visit Our Apprentice Program Page
Thanks for taking the time to learn more about the amazing people who help keep our shop running. We’re excited about what’s ahead, and we’re thankful to be part of a program that makes a difference.
