Danville Community College Partners with Robert Woodall Chevrolet GMC to Expand Automotive Apprenticeship Opportunities

Danville Community College (DCC) officially signed Robert Woodall Chevrolet GMC Cadillac as a new employer partner in the Knight’s Apprenticeship Program on February 12, 2026, creating expanded paid training opportunities for students in the college’s Automotive Technology program while helping address the region’s growing demand for skilled technicians.

The partnership places students directly inside the dealership’s service department, where they will work alongside experienced technicians while completing their coursework at DCC. Apprentices earn wages, build industry experience, and develop professional workplace habits, all before graduation.

College leaders say the model reflects a shift in how workforce education must operate today.

“Apprenticeships are powerful because they remove the gap between education and employment,” said Dr. Cornelius Johnson, President of Danville Community College. “We don't want students to wait until graduation to begin their careers, we want them actively building them while learning. Partnerships like this allow education and industry to move forward together, and that benefits both our students and the regional economy.”

Workforce leaders note the automotive industry is evolving rapidly, requiring technicians who are comfortable with advanced diagnostics, computerized systems, and emerging vehicle technologies where traditional classroom training alone is no longer enough preparation.

Jessica Dalton, DCC’s Vice President of Workforce Services, explained that apprenticeships create confidence for both students and employers.

“Students learn faster when they understand why their skills matter in a real environment. By earning a paycheck and contributing to a team, they build both technical ability and professional identity. Employers, in turn, develop technicians who already understand their processes, standards, and culture.”

The collaboration also strengthens instruction by reinforcing classroom learning with daily application.

“Our curriculum teaches the science and theory behind automotive systems,” said Melissa Mann, Dean of Career & Technical Education. “Inside the dealership, students see those concepts come to life, diagnosing real issues, communicating with customers, and working with modern equipment. That combination dramatically improves job readiness and long-term career success.”

The Knight’s Apprenticeship Program is designed to give employers a direct role in shaping the future workforce. Apprentices receive mentorship and progressive skill development as they advance through the program.

Barry Richmond, DCC Apprenticeships Coordinator, said that mentorship component is what makes the experience transformative. “Students gain confidence when they are trusted with real responsibility. They are learning how to think like technicians, not just how to complete assignments. Employers benefit by training individuals to their standards, and students gain a clear career pathway. It’s a true win-win.”

At Robert Woodall Chevrolet GMC Cadillac, we believe the best technicians are developed through hands-on experience and strong mentorship,” said Robbie Woodall, CEO of Robert Woodall Chevrolet GMC Cadillac. “Partnering with Danville Community College allows us to invest in local talent, support students who want to build careers in the automotive industry, and ensure our customers continue to receive the highest level of service from highly trained professionals right here in our community.

The new partnership reflects DCC’s continued expansion of work-based learning opportunities designed to connect education directly to employment. For many students, apprenticeships reduce financial barriers by allowing them to earn income while training, helping them graduate with experience instead of debt and transition seamlessly into full-time careers.

Students interested in the Automotive Technology program or apprenticeship opportunities can learn more at www.danville.edu.