Empire Auto Parts Announces Scholarship Winners in Partnership with TechForce Foundation

Empire Auto Parts Announces Scholarship Winners

Selected Students are Financially Supported on their Vocational Journey in Partnership with TechForce Foundation


TOTOWA, NJ – October 22, 2024 – Empire Auto Parts, a leading distributor of high-quality aftermarket collision parts for automotive repair shops, announces Jesse Kyles and Jamaal Medford as the inaugural recipients of $2,000 scholarships from its Empire Auto Parts Scholarship Fund. The scholarship fund was initially created as part of Empire’s celebration of Black History Month in February 2024 and is administered by the TechForce Foundation.

Jamaal Medford is from New York and is currently enrolled in a one-year program at Universal Technical Institute in Long Beach, CA. Medford served in the United States Marine Corps for 15 years and is now transitioning toward a civilian career in a fast-paced, challenging industry. Collision repair fits the bill for Medford given the rapidly evolving nature of today’s vehicles. “My dream career would be to be part of a team that grows together and can share industry knowledge to be successful,” says Medford.

Jesse Kyles is enrolled at the Tennessee College of Applied Technology in Memphis while also working at ATA Collisions. He has been fascinated by cars his whole life and has an ambition to run his own collision repair facility one day. Kyles says that “in order to do that, though, I need to learn how to do everything,” and that means diving into his program at TCAT. “My end goal is to have a well-known shop and work on various Japanese-style cars, such as Mazdas, Honda, Mitsubishis and Nissans.”

“Empire Auto Parts is proud to support the ambitious dreams of individuals like Jamaal and Jesse, and we look forward to watching their careers blossom in the years ahead,” said Christopher Siebert, Empire’s Chief Executive Officer. “The industry is critically in need of capable talent that have the drive and skills to grow during dynamically changing times.”

The scholarships are part of a larger, multi-year financial commitment that Empire has made in support of TechForce Foundation’s mission to champion students to and through their education into technical careers, including developing the next wave of collision industry professionals. In addition to these two scholarships, Empire will also donate parts to be used in schools that participate in TechForce’s skill development programs.

To learn more about TechForce Foundation and apply for scholarship opportunities, visit https://techforce.org/our-work/#scholarships.

About Empire Auto Parts
Empire Auto Parts has been a leader in the aftermarket auto parts industry
since its founding in 1985. With over 50,000 SKUs in inventory across 45 locations, Empire offers broad part availability, top-quality brands, and fast, reliable deliveries processed by friendly and knowledgeable staff members. With its own proprietary technology and integrations with third party software estimation and procurement systems, Empire provides a better buying experience for collision repair shops. For more information on Empire Auto Parts, visit www.empireautoparts.com.

About TechForce Foundation
TechForce Foundation is a national nonprofit, 501(c)(3) with the mission to champion all students to and through their education and into careers as professional technicians. TechForce powers the technician workforce by awarding more than $4 million in scholarships and grants annually to financially disadvantaged students; changes perceptions towards this evolving, ‘new collar’ STEM career; and provides local career exploration and workforce development programming. TechForce’s online network of students, working technicians, instructors, employers, industry professionals and enthusiasts is the conduit through which the charity delivers its free resources for the benefit of aspiring technicians. For more information, visit techforce.org. Follow us on TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Linkedin.

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New at TechForce | October 2024

 
 
 
What’s Happening in TechForce?
💰 Contests – $8K in Prizes Tech students, instructors, and working techs—don’t miss out on 4 exciting contests with  $8,000 in prizes! Enter today in the TechForce network.
🎤 Young Tech Survey High schoolers, student techs, and working techs (first 3 years), we need your voice! Instructors who help and let us know in the network can earn $200.
🔧 New Jobs in TechForce Check out the new Jobs tab in TechForce! Whether you’re just starting or looking for your next role, find your match now.
💸 $4M in Scholarships Ready to fund your future? With $4 million in scholarships available, now’s the time to apply and kickstart your career.
Hertz and TechForce Foundation are teaming up to offer portable, modular DC fast charging systems to schools. The SparkCharge Roadie is a versatile and powerful tool for engineering, electrical, or automotive classes—an ideal hands-on learning resource.
Want to bring this innovation to your classroom? Limited units available!
Fill out this form to learn more and secure your spot.
Act now, before they’re gone!
12621 N Tatum Blvd #304, Phoenix, AZ, United States, 85032
 

Mecum Auctions, TechForce Foundation, and Dallas ISD Collaborate to Ignite Students’ Passion for Automotive Excellence

Dallas Youth Discover Alternative Paths to Success at Mecum Dallas 2024

Mecum Auctions, TechForce Foundation, and Dallas Independent School District Collaborate to Ignite Students’ Passion for Automotive Excellence


DALLAS – Sept. 3, 2024 – Mecum Auctions and TechForce Foundation are hosting over 300 high school students this Thursday and Friday at Kay Bailey Hutchinson Convention Center for Mecum Dallas 2024. The event will introduce students to technician career opportunities as Mecum Auctions, TechForce Foundation, and Dallas Independent School District (ISD) collaborate to create an unforgettable, defining experience for high school students.

WHO: 300+ aspiring technicians from Dallas area high schools.

WHEN: Thursday, September 5 and Friday, September 6, 2024, from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. CT.

WHERE: Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, 650 S. Griffin St., Dallas, TX 75202.

WHAT: Students from schools including Dallas ISD’s Career and Technical Education programs will explore the auction arena, surrounded by over 1,500 American classics, muscle cars, hot rods, and custom vehicles. The event isn’t just about students seeing cars. It’s about understanding how the craftsmanship, dedication, and innovation of technicians like them drive the automotive industry.

Young talent will get an exclusive tour of the auction arena and an up-close view of the phenomenal vehicles primed to hit the auction block. Representatives from Mecum Auctions and TechForce are set to give students a warm Texas welcome. The pressing national demand for top-tier technicians—at last count 2.7 job openings for every tech school graduate—drives these motivational events.

About TechForce Foundation
TechForce Foundation is a national nonprofit, 501(c)(3) with the mission to champion all students to and through their education and into careers as professional technicians. TechForce powers the technician workforce by awarding more than $4 million in scholarships and grants annually to financially disadvantaged students; changes perceptions towards this evolving, ‘new collar’ STEM career; and provides local career exploration and workforce development programming. TechForce’s online network of students, working technicians, instructors, employers, industry professionals and enthusiasts is the conduit through which the charity delivers its free resources for the benefit of aspiring technicians. For more information, visit techforce.org. Follow us on TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Linkedin.

About Mecum Auctions
The Mecum Auction Company is the world leader of collector car, vintage and antique motorcycle, and Road Art sales, hosting auctions throughout the United States. The company has been specializing in the sale of collector cars for more than 30 years, now offering more than 20,000 lots per year and averaging more than one auction each month. Mecum Auctions is headquartered in Walworth, Wisconsin, is host to the world’s largest collector car auction held annually in Kissimmee, Florida, as well as the world’s largest motorcycle auction held annually in Las Vegas.

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WD-40®Brand and NAPA Partner with TechForce Foundation to Offer $50,000 in Scholarships to Those Pursuing a Career in the Skilled Trades

WD-40® Brand and NAPA Partner with TechForce Foundation to Offer $50,000 in Scholarships to Those Pursuing a Career in the Skilled Trades


SAN DIEGO – July 17, 2024 –
To bridge the skilled trades gap and empower aspiring technicians to pursue a career in the field, WD-40® Brand and NAPA are partnering with TechForce Foundation to offer $50,000 in scholarships, aimed at bolstering a new generation of trade professionals.

For decades, the skilled trades have suffered from a gap in supply and demand, leading to a significant workforce shortage. For the first time in more than ten years, tech school completions have risen. However, to meet demand over the next five years, the skilled trades must grow by 795,000 new technicians.

“The automotive industry’s future depends on the education and training of today’s students,” said Jamie Walton, executive vice president, merchandising of NAPA. “This partnership with WD-40 Brand and the TechForce Foundation ensures we bring broader visibility and accessibility to technician careers.”

WD-40 Brand and NAPA will award 40 scholarships over the next 12 months. Applicants must be enrolled in a post-secondary automotive, collision or diesel program. To apply and learn more, students can visit techforce.org/napa-wd40brand-scholarships. As part of the partnership, NAPA will be offering WD-40® Multi-Use Product at a discounted price through September 2024.

“WD-40 Brand recognizes the critical role that the skilled trades play in driving America forward,” said Erin Bala, vice president of U.S. marketing and Americas innovation at WD-40 Company. “We are honored to join forces with NAPA in backing TechForce Foundation and its crucial mission to champion students to and through their education into careers as professional technicians.”

TechForce Foundation is a national nonprofit, 501(c)(3) that works with transportation industry leaders to inspire people to explore the technician profession, support students in obtaining the technical education needed to be workforce-ready, and connect students to resources, mentors and employers to thrive in their careers.

“This cross-sector partnership demonstrates the value of industry coming together to demonstrate its commitment to powering the next generation of technicians,” said Jennifer Maher, CEO of TechForce Foundation. “By combining their support, WD-40 Brand and NAPA will unlock a multiplier effect that will allow our organizations to inspire and support more students together than we ever could apart. TechForce looks forward to collaborating with our partners to connect even more students to technician careers in an industry that urgently needs their skills.”

About WD-40 Brand
WD-40® Brand offers more than 30 innovative, quality products to get the Job Done Right®. The same spirit of innovation for solving the toughest challenges, which led to the creation of the original WD-40® Multi-Use Product, also drove the brand to grow its family of offerings to include the WD-40 Specialist® line – best-in-class products that deliver superior performance for industry professionals. WD-40 Specialist products provide specialized, heavy-duty solutions in factories, facilities, automotive garages, and on farms around the world. The line consists of lubricants, penetrants, greases, cleaners and degreasers, and rust-management solutions scientifically designed for the world’s toughest jobs. For additional information about WD-40® Brand products, please visit wd40.com.

About NAPA
Through nearly 6,000 auto parts stores and over 16,000 auto care and collision centers in the U.S., NAPA has America’s largest network of parts and care. The NAPA Network is supported by nationwide distribution centers with approximately 800,000 available parts, accessories and supplies. Widely recognized for quality parts, rapid availability and knowledgeable people, NAPA Auto Parts stores serve automotive service professionals, do-it-yourselfers and everyday drivers with quality parts, accessories and supplies to keep cars, trucks and equipment performing safely and efficiently. For more information, visit www.napaonline.com.

About TechForce Foundation
TechForce Foundation is a national nonprofit, 501(c)(3) with the mission to champion all students to and through their education and into careers as professional technicians. TechForce powers the technician workforce by awarding more than $4 million in scholarships and grants annually to financially disadvantaged students; changes perceptions towards this evolving, ‘new collar’ STEM career; and provides local career exploration and workforce development programming. TechForce’s online network of students, working technicians, instructors, employers, industry professionals and enthusiasts is the conduit through which the charity delivers its free resources for the benefit of aspiring technicians. For more information, visit techforce.org. Follow us on TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Linkedin.

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Bridging the Trade Skills Gap: Rebellious Wines Unveils Scholarship for Underrepresented Populations

Bridging the Trade Skills Gap: Rebellious Wines Unveils Scholarship for Underrepresented Populations

The Rebellious Riveters Scholarship Program aims to empower students by offering tuition support in post-secondary technical programs across the United States.

June 27, 2024 — PURCHASE, N.Y. — In the spirit of championing the unconventional, Rebellious Wines from California today announced the Rebellious Riveters Scholarship in partnership with TechForce Foundation. The scholarship is a testament to the brand’s commitment to challenging the status quo and aims to empower individuals eager to forge careers in skilled trades.

The development of this Rebellious Riveters Scholarship Program is a direct response to Rebellious Wines’ recent survey, which found that more than half (55%) of Americans believe in breaking gender norms through their career choices. It comes at a critical time as America grapples with a dual challenge: filling the skills gap in its labor market and breaking down gender norms that have kept underrepresented populations out of these lucrative careers.

“The skills gap in trade careers is a pressing issue. Our country needs nearly 800,000 new automotive, diesel, collision repair, aviation, and avionics technicians by 2027 to meet demand, and the underrepresentation of diverse groups is a key factor to consider,” said TechForce Foundation CEO Jennifer Maher. “Support from Rebellious Wines contributes to TechForce Foundation’s charitable work of inspiring all students to explore technician careers, supporting them through their education and connecting them to successful careers. We’re dedicated to increasing representation and partnering with like-minded partners like Rebellious Wines to empower students around the U.S. and provide the crucial support they need to break into these fulfilling careers.”

The industry is experiencing a significant skills gap among underrepresented populations. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, women are particularly underrepresented, accounting for less than 3% of employed technicians. The Rebellious Riveters Scholarship aims to address this disparity and inspire more people to pursue careers in the skilled trades.

“This scholarship is about equipping unapologetically rebellious individuals with the tools they need to build successful careers,” said Bob DeRoose, President and CEO of Kobrand Corporation. “We are committed to breaking barriers and are honored to support those who embody this notion of being rebellious for good. After all, their drive and determination will ultimately help bridge the skills gap, proving that the future of these industries will be both inclusive and rebellious.”

The Rebellious Riveters Scholarship Program will begin accepting applications on June 26, 2024, and will accept submissions on a rolling basis through August 2024. The scholarships will be available for eligible students enrolled in any post-secondary technician program across the United States.

Please visit www.rebelliouswine.com/rebelliousriveters for more information about the Rebellious Riveters Scholarship Program.

About TechForce Foundation
TechForce Foundation is a national nonprofit, 501(c)(3) with the mission to champion all students to and through their education and into careers as professional technicians. TechForce powers the technician workforce by awarding more than $4 million in scholarships and grants annually to financially disadvantaged students; changes perceptions towards this evolving, ‘new collar’ STEM career; and provides local career exploration and workforce development programming. TechForce’s online network of students, working technicians, instructors, employers, industry professionals and enthusiasts is the conduit through which the charity delivers its free resources for the benefit of aspiring technicians. For more information, visit techforce.org. Follow us on TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Linkedin.

About Kobrand Corporation
Founded in 1944, Kobrand Corporation remains one of the few family-owned wine and spirits companies in the United States. Kobrand’s portfolio of fine wine and spirits was meticulously selected according to a single, unerring principle: quality. This continued focus has made the Kobrand name synonymous with wines and spirits of the highest caliber for over 75 years. Kobrand is the exclusive US agent for an outstanding selection of fine wines from all key wine regions, including the United States, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Japan, Chile, Argentina, Germany, and New Zealand. For more information about Kobrand and our portfolio visit http://www.Kobrandwineandspirits.com

About Rebellious Wines
Founded on the belief that the best wines are born from the unbridled spirit of Nature, Rebellious wines are a testament to the unconventional. With a focus on selecting the finest grapes and embracing unexpected blends, Rebellious offers an extraordinary experience that challenges the status quo. These wines embody an unapologetically rebellious nature, resulting in full-bodied creations that captivate the senses. Like their namesake, they serve as a beacon for those who dare to live on their own terms. Rebellious wines are not just wine; they are a toast to the innovators and trailblazers who continue to inspire and redefine our society, an invitation to embrace the unpredictable and a splash of extraordinary.

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TechForce Foundation, SkillsUSA Collaborate to Empower Next Generation of Skilled Technicians and Solve Technician Shortage

TechForce Foundation, SkillsUSA Collaborate to Empower Next Generation of Skilled Technicians and Solve Technician Shortage

The innovative collaboration equips students and educators with an arsenal of resources to foster career success for the next generation of professional technicians.

May 14, 2024 — Phoenix, Ariz. and Leesburg, Va. — TechForce Foundation and SkillsUSA have entered a strategic collaboration to empower the next generation of skilled aviation, automotive, collision repair, diesel, and welding technicians and tackle the technician shortage head-on. The mutually beneficial collaboration will help students garner the skills, education, and support needed to successfully develop careers as professional technicians.

Through the collaboration, SkillsUSA will introduce TechForce Foundation’s career-building resources to its members, encouraging them to access TechForce™, an online career hub that helps students navigate the journey from building their interest and skills to connecting with year-round scholarships, events, apprenticeships and jobs. Reciprocally, TechForce will educate its network of students and instructors about SkillsUSA membership, which offers opportunities for student leadership, professional development, enhanced curriculum, industry networking and partnerships, and real-world experiences that reinforce lessons learned in the classroom.

“This nonprofit-to-nonprofit collaboration showcases what can happen when two organizations work together for a common purpose,” says TechForce Foundation CEO Jennifer Maher. “Both organizations are committed to the outcome of a skilled, passionate workforce, so ensuring our communications channels cross-pollinate ensures our students, and industry, win. With TechForce having over $4 million in scholarships to award this year alone, and SkillsUSA being active in nearly 5,000 schools and over 21,000 classrooms nationwide, it’s a natural alliance that supercharges results for the next generation of skilled technicians.”

“SkillsUSA is the #1 workforce development organization dedicated to students,” states SkillsUSA Executive Director Chelle Travis. “Our organization stands ready to meet the growing need of connecting business and industry with skilled professionals. SkillsUSA’s vision is to produce the most highly skilled workforce in the world, providing every member the opportunity for career success. With partners like TechForce beside us, it is a true win-win for everyone – students and the American economy alike.”

The technician shortage remains a persistent challenge for the industry. The most recent research from TechForce finds three job openings for every tech school graduate today. Despite evidence that organizations can achieve more together than apart, committed collaborations have been limited. TechForce Foundation and SkillsUSA will introduce more students and instructors to the existing resources than ever before. The anticipated result is more students enrolling in and completing technical education and a larger, better-prepared next-generation technician workforce.

About TechForce Foundation
TechForce Foundation is a national nonprofit, 501(c)(3) with the mission to champion all students to and through their education and into careers as professional technicians. TechForce powers the technician workforce by awarding more than $4 million in scholarships and grants annually to financially disadvantaged students; changes perceptions towards this evolving, ‘new collar’ STEM career; and provides local career exploration and workforce development programming. TechForce’s online network of students, working technicians, instructors, employers, industry professionals and enthusiasts is the conduit through which the charity delivers its free resources for the benefit of aspiring technicians. For more information, visit techforce.org. Follow us on TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Linkedin.

About SkillsUSA
SkillsUSA is America’s proud champion of the skilled trades. It’s a student-led partnership of education and industry that’s building the skilled workforce our nation depends on with graduates who are career ready, day one. Representing nearly 380,000 career and technical education students and teachers, SkillsUSA chapters thrive in middle schools, high schools and college/postsecondary institutions nationwide. SkillsUSA’s mission empowers students to become skilled professionals, career-ready leaders and responsible community members. That mission is accomplished through the SkillsUSA Framework of Personal Skills, Workplace Skills and Technical Skills Grounded in Academics, which is integrated into the classroom curriculum. Through Framework instruction, students develop the character-shaping leadership skills — teamwork, communication, professionalism and more — that successful careers and lives demand. At the same time, students hone their high-level technical skills against current industry standards in more than 130 skilled trade areas, from 3-D Animation to Welding. The result? Focused, confident and highly skilled graduates who are ready to work, ready to lead and ready to make a difference in our schools, workplaces and communities. A vital solution to the skills gap, where more in-demand skilled trades positions are available than qualified professionals to fill them, SkillsUSA has served over 14 million difference-making members since 1965. To learn more, visit www.skillsusa.org.

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CRC-Sponsored GTO Goes to Auction to Support the Trades Through TechForce Foundation

CRC-Sponsored GTO Goes to Auction to Support the Trades Through TechForce Foundation

Supercharged, resto mod 2006 GTO to be auctioned by MECUM Auto Auction on May 15, 2024.

Horsham, PA — A modified, upgraded, and perfectly preserved 2006 Pontiac GTO sponsored by CRC Industries will be auctioned May 15, 2024 with all proceeds going to TechForce Foundation, a nonprofit organization that funds education for and champions young people aspiring to work in the trades. Tuned by a famously-skilled crew, including NHRA Top Fuel World Champion Clay Millican, Jeff Lutz of Street Outlaws and Jeffrey Lutz of Lutz Race Cars, the GTO will be auctioned by MECUM Auto Auction at the Indiana State Fairgrounds in Indianapolis. Bidders can register online at: www.mecum.com/lots/1110407/2006-pontiac-gto/.

CRC Industries launched the “CRC Build for the Future Scholarship” program in cooperation with TechForce to inspire young men and women to explore a rewarding career in a technical trade and empower them through strong community, scholarships and career placement programs to achieve their dreams. CRC sponsored the GTO build to provide TechForce Foundation with funds for scholarships. The higher the bids, the more the scholarship will be granted as 100% of the proceeds from the auction will be donated to TechForce. At a minimum, Five scholarships will be awarded for industrial/welding, five for automotive education, and at least three of the scholarships will be awarded to women.

In announcing the auction, TechForce Foundation CEO Jennifer Maher noted, “We’re thrilled to partner with CRC Industries on this initiative. We share the same mission of helping young people find rewarding careers in the trades. We’re tremendously grateful for CRC’s financial support and the time and effort their team has put into helping to make the TechForce Foundation scholarship program a success.”

Raquel Wenger, CRC Director of Marketing, Americas, added, “We believe that investing in the next generation of technicians is vital to the sustainability of the trades. We partnered with TechForce, Clay Millican, and Jeff Lutz on the 2006 Pontiac GTO not only to provide scholarships for technical education, but also to shine a light on the opportunities available for young people looking for a rewarding long-term career.”

To apply for the CRC-sponsored scholarships, applicants can register through TechForce at: techforce.org/app/sign-up. By joining TechForce’s online network, applicants gain access to many other scholarships offered through TechForce™ in addition to the CRC scholarship.

To learn more about TechForce scholarships and the CRC-sponsored GTO build, visit: crcbuildforthefuture.com.

To learn more about CRC Industries, visit www.crcindustries.com or follow the CRC brand on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok, YouTube and Instagram.

About CRC
CRC Industries, Inc. is a global leader in the production of specialty products and formulations for the do-it-yourselfer and maintenance professional—the people who keep everyone moving forward in a world that never stops. For more than 65 years, we’ve been rolling up our sleeves to create products and solutions that are born from, and tested in, the important work that gets done every day around the world. Serving the automotive, industrial, electrical, marine, heavy truck, hardware, and aviation markets, CRC trademarked brands include: CRC®, Brakleen®, Evapo-Rust®, K&W®, Marykate®, SmartWasher®, Sta-Lube®, and Weld-Aid®.

About TechForce Foundation
TechForce Foundation is a national nonprofit, 501(c)(3) with the mission to champion all students to and through their education and into careers as professional technicians. TechForce powers the technician workforce by awarding more than $4 million in scholarships and grants annually to financially disadvantaged students; changes perceptions towards this evolving, ‘new collar’ STEM career; and provides local career exploration and workforce development programming. TechForce’s online network of students, working technicians, instructors, employers, industry professionals and enthusiasts is the conduit through which the charity delivers its free resources for the benefit of aspiring technicians. For more information, visit techforce.org. Follow us on TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Linkedin.

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TechForce Foundation Launches ‘Techs Talk’ Survey to Gain Insights from the Next Generation of Technicians

TechForce Foundation Launches ‘Techs Talk’ Survey to Gain Insights from the Next Generation of Technicians

The survey will provide industry insights on the needs and expectations of future and newly employed working techs to best shape recruitment and retention strategies.

May 7, 2024 — PHOENIX, AZ — TechForce Foundation has launched its Techs Talk survey, designed to uncover insights into the perspectives, values, and experiences of aspiring technician students and new working technicians. The results of this study will enable industry, schools, and employers to adapt strategies to meet the evolving needs and desires of this up-and-coming workforce.

“Most technician surveys in the marketplace today are heavily skewed by responses from GenX and Boomers. TechForce Foundation wants to specifically gather insights from GenZ future techs and new working techs within their first two years of employment. This gives us better data in building the workforce going forward, and knowledge to address the crippling technician shortage,” says Jennifer Maher, CEO of TechForce Foundation. 

The pressing national demand for top-tier technicians has created three job openings for every tech school graduate today. Despite the opportunity, many young people hesitate to commit to technician careers or quit being a tech after just two years of employment. “We hear anecdotal reasons ranging from the cost of training and tools, a desire for certain compensation or work/life balance, to stigmas or lack of clarity involving the career path. It’s time we have solid data as to what this aspiring workforce truly wants and needs.” 

TechForce encourages all working technicians within their first two years of employment and all high school and post-secondary students enrolled in automotive, aviation, collision, diesel, restoration, welding, and other related programs to take the survey and let their voices be heard.

The survey, hosted by TechForce Foundation in partnership with Endeavor Business Intelligence, an independent market research firm, is designed to collect both quantitative and qualitative latitudinal data. The survey is anonymous so that participants are free to be transparent when sharing their voices. Results will be shared publicly, when available.

To take the survey, visit TechForce.org/Survey.

The Techs Talk Survey is the latest research from TechForce Foundation, a non-profit with the mission to champion all students to and through their technical education and into careers as professional technicians. Since 2017, TechForce has published its annual Technician Supply & Demand Report, analyzing education and employment trends in the automotive, collision repair, diesel, and aviation sectors. TechForce has also released a Women Techs Report summarizing tips on attracting and retaining women techs gathered from conversations with hundreds of women technicians.

About TechForce Foundation
TechForce Foundation is a national nonprofit, 501(c)(3) with the mission to champion all students to and through their education and into careers as professional technicians. TechForce powers the technician workforce by awarding more than $4 million in scholarships and grants annually to financially disadvantaged students; changes perceptions towards this evolving, ‘new collar’ STEM career; and provides local career exploration and workforce development programming. TechForce’s online network of students, working technicians, instructors, employers, industry professionals and enthusiasts is the conduit through which the charity delivers its free resources for the benefit of aspiring technicians. For more information, visit techforce.org. Follow us on TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Linkedin.

About Endeavor Business Media
Headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee, Endeavor Business Media was formed in 2017 to acquire and operate business media brands, events and marketing solutions. Today the company is one of the largest B2B Media companies in the US with more than 700 employees, 9,000 customers and a database of over 10 million business professionals. The company’s vehicle repair group features brands including Ratchet+Wrench, Motor Age, Modern Tire Dealer, PTEN, Professional Distributor, NOLN, FenderBender, and ABRN. The company serves business professionals and marketers in key business sectors such as aviation, buildings, construction, dental, electronics, energy, healthcare, manufacturing, networking systems, public safety, transportation, and water. The company has offices in Nashville, TN; Tulsa, OK; Nashua, NH; Birmingham, AL; Sarasota, FL; Skokie, IL; Fort Atkinson, WI; Houston, TX; Independence, OH; Fort Collins, CO, and Overland Park, KS. To learn more, visit www.endeavorbusinessmedia.com.

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Inside TechForce | April 2024

CONTESTS & EVENTS
Leaderboard Challenge
We are in the final weeks of the TechForce Leaderboard Challenge! This month’s prize is a $200 AMEX gift card for the top student and instructor in the network! Coming soon: AN EXCITING announcement about May contests and prizes!! 
Mecum Auctions
VIP tickets are provided exclusively to TechForce classes, students, and instructors. You get priority access to prime viewing areas, ensuring they’re at the forefront of the action! Upcoming summer events include Indy, Tulsa, Kissimmee, and Harrisburg.
Formula Drift 
Thanks to our friends at Acceler8, we have free tickets available to schools, students, and instructors. There is a limited amount available. Get them soon! Upcoming summer events include Orlando, New Jersey, and St. Louis. 
When You’re a Tech Poll 
You’re a tech, you get the same marketing from various places. What phrase makes your eyes roll the most? Rev-Up, Accelerate, Fuel Your, or maybe all of them? See what other techs think inside TechForce. 
GO TO TECHFORCE™
SUPPORT TECHFORCE FOUNDATION
2024 Annual Campaign
Currently, TechForce can only fund 1 out of 4 technical students who need financial support.
Your donation to TechForce helps provide scholarships to students with real financial need. 🚚🔧
TechForce is a non-profit 501(c)(3) funded by donations from individuals, corporations and foundations. Gifts are 100% tax deductible.
DONATE NOW
12621 N Tatum Blvd #304, Phoenix, AZ, United States, 85032
   

CRC-Sponsored GTO Goes to Auction to Support the Trades Through TechForce Foundation

CRC-Sponsored GTO Goes to Auction to Support the Trades Through TechForce Foundation

Supercharged, resto mod 2006 GTO to be auctioned by MECUM Auto Auction on May 15, 2024.

April 9, 2024 — Horsham, PA — A modified, upgraded, and perfectly preserved 2006 Pontiac GTO sponsored by CRC Industries will be auctioned May 15, 2024 with all proceeds going to TechForce Foundation, a nonprofit organization that funds education for and champions young people aspiring to work in the trades. Tuned by a famously-skilled crew, including NHRA Top Fuel World Champion Clay Millican, Jeff Lutz of Street Outlaws and Jeffrey Lutz of Lutz Race Cars, the GTO will be auctioned by MECUM Auto Auction at the Indiana State Fairgrounds in Indianapolis. Bidders can register online at: www.mecum.com/lots/1110407/2006-pontiac-gto/.

CRC Industries launched the “CRC Build for the Future Scholarship” program in cooperation with TechForce to inspire young men and women to explore a rewarding career in a technical trade and empower them through strong community, scholarships and career placement programs to achieve their dreams. CRC sponsored the GTO build to provide TechForce Foundation with funds for scholarships. The higher the bids, the more the scholarship will be granted as 100% of the proceeds from the auction will be donated to TechForce. At a minimum, Five scholarships will be awarded for industrial/welding, five for automotive education, and at least three of the scholarships will be awarded to women.

In announcing the auction, TechForce Foundation CEO Jennifer Maher noted, “We’re thrilled to partner with CRC Industries on this initiative. We share the same mission of helping young people find rewarding careers in the trades. We’re tremendously grateful for CRC’s financial support and the time and effort their team has put into helping to make the TechForce Foundation scholarship program a success.”

Raquel Wenger, CRC Director of Marketing, Americas, added, “We believe that investing in the next generation of technicians is vital to the sustainability of the trades. We partnered with TechForce, Clay Millican, and Jeff Lutz on the 2006 Pontiac GTO not only to provide scholarships for technical education, but also to shine a light on the opportunities available for young people looking for a rewarding long-term career.”

To apply for the CRC-sponsored scholarships, applicants can register through TechForce at: techforce.org/app/sign-up. By joining TechForce’s online network, applicants gain access to many other scholarships offered through TechForce™ in addition to the CRC scholarship.

To learn more about TechForce scholarships and the CRC-sponsored GTO build, visit: crcbuildforthefuture.com.

To learn more about CRC Industries, visit www.crcindustries.com or follow the CRC brand on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok, YouTube and Instagram.

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About CRC
CRC Industries, Inc. is a global leader in the production of specialty products and formulations for the do-it-yourselfer and maintenance professional—the people who keep everyone moving forward in a world that never stops. For more than 65 years, we’ve been rolling up our sleeves to create products and solutions that are born from, and tested in, the important work that gets done every day around the world. Serving the automotive, industrial, electrical, marine, heavy truck, hardware, and aviation markets, CRC trademarked brands include: CRC®, Brakleen®, Evapo-Rust®, K&W®, Marykate®, SmartWasher®, Sta-Lube®, and Weld-Aid®.

 

About TechForce Foundation
TechForce Foundation is a national nonprofit, 501(c)(3) with the mission to champion all students to and through their education and into careers as professional technicians. TechForce powers the technician workforce by awarding more than $4 million in scholarships and grants annually to financially disadvantaged students; changes perceptions towards this evolving, ‘new collar’ STEM career; and provides local career exploration and workforce development programming. TechForce’s online network of students, working technicians, instructors, employers, industry professionals and enthusiasts is the conduit through which the charity delivers its free resources for the benefit of aspiring technicians. For more information, visit techforce.org. Follow us on TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Linkedin.

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"By connecting students, instructors, industry pros and working techs, the TechForce Foundation provides unilateral support to the transportation industry’s technician recruiting needs… The administration of our Scholarships by the TechForce team has been instrumental in delivering us with a successful method to gain interest from qualified candidates as well as provide our students with additional assistance to complete their education."
Tony Farr
Ford Technical Programs Manager