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Compton’s Automotive PT 2: The Power of Apprenticeship

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  • Jul 29
  • 3 min read

Updated: Aug 5


Ray Terry thanks Compton's Automotive tech Daniel Wilk for his interview and insights into his career pathway.
Ray Terry thanks Compton's Automotive tech Daniel Wilk for his interview and insights into his career pathway.

By Sam Ettaro for Put Tools in Schools


Charlotte, NC — At just 21 years old, Daniel Wilk has already racked up four years of hands-on experience as an automotive technician at Compton’s Automotive in Charlotte. For Daniel, the path to a fulfilling career didn’t begin with a college acceptance letter — it started under the hood of a race car and led him to a career in the trades.


“I can't sit at a desk all day. I figured I’d be useful — work on cars, use my hands, and learn new things.” – Daniel Wilk

Daniel’s journey is increasingly common among Gen Z workers exploring skilled trades. After high school, he entered an apprenticeship program through Central Piedmont Community College, which placed him directly into a full-time role at Compton’s. “It’s been a great time,” he says, grinning during his lunch break interview.


The Shift Away from College-First Thinking

Daniel’s advice to other young people?


“Your career path is never set in stone. You shouldn’t always look at college right out of high school. Survey your options, play around, bounce around, and try the things you love to do.”


His message resonates with a growing trend. According to a 2023 survey by ECMC Group, only 48% of high school students now say they plan to attend a four-year college — down from 71% in 2020. Many are choosing hands-on training, apprenticeships, and workforce entry instead.


This shift is supported by strong career outcomes in the trades. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that automotive service technicians and mechanics earn a median salary of $47,770, with the top 10% making more than $75,000 annually. Many employers — like Compton’s — offer full benefits, regular hours, and ongoing professional growth.


“I work 8 to 5, 40 hours a week, with an hour lunch. I’ve got insurance and benefits. And I’ll make more as I go on.” Daniel’s story highlights the critical role of apprenticeship programs, which combine paid, on-the-job training with classroom instruction. In North Carolina, programs like the one at Central Piedmont are helping students earn while they learn without incurring college debt by pointing them to local apprenticeship programs such as the one at Compton's Automotive.

According to ApprenticeshipNC, over 12,000 North Carolinians are currently enrolled in registered apprenticeships. Nationally, 93% of apprentices are employed upon completion, earning an average starting salary of over $77,000 in high-demand sectors.


“I learned about the apprenticeship through CPCC. They got me into the program and placed me here at Compton’s.”


A Future Fueled by Passion

Beyond the shop, Daniel fuels his passion for cars by racing legend and late-model vehicles on the weekend. “I’ve always been around cars,” he says. “I race, my dad raced — I grew up tinkering. It just made sense.”


He also has his sights set on a bigger dream: owning his own shop one day.


For now, Daniel is proving that a fulfilling, stable, and exciting career is possible without the traditional college route. All it takes is drive, curiosity, and a willingness to explore.


“Try everything first. Find something you love. Then go for it.”


💡 Want to Explore Careers Like Daniel’s?

  • Visit PutToolsInSchools.org to learn about:

    • Apprenticeship programs in your area

    • Local trade schools and community colleges

    • Career pathway videos and classroom resources


ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW VIDEO:

Call to Action: Industry and Education Must Unite

Charlotte’s population is approaching 2.7 million, and its youth deserve access to real career options. Organizations like Put Tools in Schools and Compton’s Automotive are making a difference, but the need is greater than any one shop can fulfill.

Resources for Students and Educators:


JobsInSchools.org – Automotive Careers


📌 Know a student who likes to tinker? Encourage them to explore the world of auto repair—it could be the start of a thriving, lifelong career.




 
 
 

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