Bus Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship
Hands-on Learning
Program Overview
This program prepares individuals for careers as bus maintenance technicians. This training covers the following topics:
- Engines
- Powertrain and Brake Systems
- Servicing, Maintaining, and Repairing CNG Vehicles
- Electrical Systems
- HVAC – Mobile Air Conditioning and Refrigeration
- Shop Safety
- Exhaust Emissions
- Allison Automatic Transmission
Facts & Figures
Apprenticeship Snapshot
24 Month
Apprenticeship
Four
Industry-Recognized Credentials
4,176
Hours On-the-Job Training
Complete Training Experience
Building a Strong Foundation
The program equips apprentices with the skills, credentials, and resources needed to thrive. Together, these elements provide comprehensive training, recognized certifications, and support that helps remove barriers to employment.
Certifications
Participants receive their journeyworker papers from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry and earn additional industry‑recognized credentials that strengthen their qualifications in the transportation field.
- EPA 608 Technician Certification
- EPA 609 Motor Vehicle Air Conditioning Certificate
- PA State Inspection License
- PA Emissions Inspection License
Training Details
Apprentices develop practical, job‑ready skills through a structured blend of hands‑on experience, technical instruction, and guided learning designed to support long‑term success.
- Combination of on-the-job training and instruction
- Interactive online learning platform for instruction
- Hands-on lab training
- Mentorship from experienced technicians
Support Services
Participants receive access to essential assistance through Community Action Agency partnerships, ensuring they have the stability and support needed to complete the program.
- Transportation
- Childcare
- Career development services
- Other barrier remediation support
Always Learning
"I’ve been striving for a mechanical career so this has been a perfect opportunity to break into the field. Plus, this will give me the confidence down the road to make suggestions. I’m looking forward to learning about electrical, suspension, and brakes. That will bleed into my job on a regular basis. I think this apprenticeship is going to benefit me and it’s going to benefit my company. It’s a win-win."
Jake Dame - River Valley Transit Authority
Get Connected
Who Can Participate
Participants must be employed at a participating public transit agency that is a member of the Pennsylvania Public Transportation Association (PPTA). For more information, contact:
Kim Whetsell, Executive Director, PPTA
info@ppta.net | 717.234.7211
The Bus Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship Program is funded in part by a grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry.