For many students, enrolling in automotive training marks the beginning of a dream. For Anouar Haouaria, it was the continuation of a lifelong passion. “What brought me here to begin with is my passion about cars, fixing cars, and everything about it,” he shares.
That passion began with a classic. “My dad had a Cadillac Flitud ’88… that was the reason why I love classical cars for sure.” Even though he was too young to work on the engine himself, the experience made a lasting impression. “Just the sound of the engine… when my dad used to fix it, I used to be, like, curious about what’s wrong with the car, why it’s not moving, what’s this, what’s that.”
Discovering a Natural Fit
Before enrolling in automotive training, Anouar explored other jobs, trying to find his path. “I tried many things… working there and here… trying to, like, find myself as they say.” But one thing kept standing out: “The thing I’m the best at is working with my hands.”
This realization made ATC a perfect fit. “I would say I’m more of a workshop guy… I like to work with my hands.” That doesn’t mean he overlooks theory—“Of course, it’s everything,” he said—but the hands-on aspect remains his favourite part of learning.
Learning Environment and Community
Anouar has found more than just skills in the classroom and workshop; he’s found a community of like-minded learners. “Most of my colleagues are kind, passionate people just into cars, just as I am,” he said. “We have mutual interest… we talk about mechanics.”
He has also been impressed with the support from the instructors at our automotive school. “The other day, I was asking another teacher who’s not even in my class, and he was just open to answer all my questions,” Anouar said. “What I’ve heard from different instructors and other students is that the instructors want you to succeed, and they also really want you to be satisfied with your training,” he continues. “They’re not trying to hide little secrets; they want you to learn everything.”
And that help comes from a place of deep experience. “They have more experience than I, of course,” he added. “That’s what I’m up to, to learn from the better, from the best.”
Plans After Graduating From Automotive Training
Looking ahead, Anouar is focused on gaining real-world experience after completing his automotive training. “I think I will start as an apprentice somewhere, hopefully at a dealership,” he said. “So I could get the standards and get, like, the best knowledge possible. Those guys try to always keep their shops up to date and maintain the standards.”
For Anouar, starting in a dealership isn’t just about a job; it’s about building a strong foundation for the future. “It’s a big deal for these people, especially the dealerships,” he noted. “So I would say I think I will start from there… and we’ll see.”
Moving Forward with Confidence
Anouar’s path from curiosity to confidence is a reminder of how passion can evolve into a profession, with the right support. From hands-on practice to strong mentorship and shared community, ATC is giving him the tools to succeed.
Whether you’ve always loved cars or you’re looking for a career change, automotive training could be the first step toward your future in the trades.
Watch Anouar’s full interview here:
Do you want to explore programs at our Auto Mechanic School?
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