The workforce development nonprofit CareerEdge Funders Collaborative is partnering with eight local automotive dealerships to provide a fast-track pathway for aspiring automotive technicians. CareerEdge has worked with Suncoast Technical College to create an evening program so that entry-level employees can receive both on-the-job and classroom training. Participating employers include Gettel Automotive, Sunset Automotive Group, Peterson Toyota of Sarasota, Venice Honda, Wilde Automotive, Sarasota Mitsubishi, and Howard Lincoln and Mazda. The companies will hire individuals with no experience at $12 per hour for full- or part-time trainee positions. The new hires must then attend a free, mandatory 11-week automotive training program that runs 4-8 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays at Suncoast Technical College from Tuesday, Aug. 21, through Tuesday, Oct. 30. Those interested should apply through any of the participating dealerships.