Smarter Way to Apply helps Arizona automotive repair shops build technician pipelines through internships and apprenticeship-style training.
Whether a shop wants a custom internal training program or a fully registered apprenticeship through the Arizona Apprenticeship Office, we provide the program design, candidate sourcing, school partnerships, and implementation support needed to train — and retain — skilled technicians.
Smarter Way to Apply helps small and mid-sized automotive repair shops build reliable technician pipelines through structured internships and apprenticeship-style training programs. We connect shops with candidates, schools, and training resources to create a sustainable system for developing skilled automotive technicians.
Whether a shop wants a custom internal training program or aims to pursue a formal Registered Apprenticeship with the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES), we provide the expertise, structure, and support needed to build a strong workforce pipeline.
We help you attract motivated, pre-qualified individuals who are ready to begin careers in automotive service. Our talent pipeline includes students from CTE and automotive programs, career changers, entry-level candidates with mechanical aptitude, pre-apprentices, and recent graduates. We handle outreach, preliminary screening, and matching — so you focus on training the right people.
We build modern, shop-ready training programs including competency-based skill progression, on-the-job training plans, safety and compliance alignment, mentor/coach structure, progress tracking templates, and shop onboarding workflows. Training frameworks are tailored to each shop's environment, equipment, and business model.
We connect shops with local high schools and career centers, community colleges, automotive training institutions, veterans organizations, and workforce development programs. This helps shops access new talent pipelines that are often overlooked.
Shops can choose the level of structure and formality that fits their needs:
(Most Common)
This option gives shops complete flexibility and does not require registration with the state.
We help you implement:
Perfect for shops that want fast startup, maximum control, and minimal paperwork.
(Optional)
For shops wanting a fully state-recognized program, we guide you through:
The shop becomes the official registered sponsor, while Smarter Way to Apply provides expertise and administrative support.
This clarity ensures your shop receives support without unnecessary regulatory obligations.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're ready to strengthen your technician pipeline, we can help you:
Start an internal training or internship program immediately
Begin the process to become a Registered Apprenticeship sponsor with DES
Independent auto repair shops, franchise dealerships, and fixed operations teams across Arizona can create training programs. Automotive students, career changers, recent graduates, and entry-level candidates seeking paid shop experience can apply to be placed in programs.
We provide candidate sourcing and screening, program design and training frameworks, school and community partnerships, and implementation support. For shops pursuing Registered Apprenticeships, we provide guidance on DES compliance and documentation.
Internal apprenticeship-style training programs can often begin within 2-4 weeks. Registered Apprenticeships through DES may take longer depending on the approval process and documentation requirements.
No, registration is optional. Pathway A (Internal Apprenticeship-Style Training) does not require state registration and gives shops maximum flexibility. Only Pathway B (Registered Apprenticeship) requires registration with the Arizona Department of Economic Security.
The shop remains the trainer and employer. Shops make all hiring, wage, and employment decisions. Smarter Way to Apply provides the framework, candidate sourcing, and administrative support, but does not replace the shop's role in training and mentoring.
Whether you're an employer ready to build a training program or a candidate seeking hands-on automotive experience, submit the form and our team will reach out with next steps.
Independent shops, franchise dealers, and fixed ops teams welcome
Flexible pathways: internal training or registered apprenticeships
Program design, candidate sourcing, and implementation support
Arizona-focused with strong school and community partnerships