2024

June 26, 2024June 27, 2024

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.

###

May 14, 2024May 29, 2024

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 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.

###

May 13, 2024May 14, 2024

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®.

###

Graphic that reads "You Don't Have to Tell Them, We Will. Techs Talk Gen Z Survey. All the Things Industry Doesn't Get..."

May 7, 2024May 14, 2024

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 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.

###

April 26, 2024April 26, 2024

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

April 9, 2024May 14, 2024

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/.

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 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.

March 19, 2024May 14, 2024

TOPDON USA Makes $25,000 Donation to TechForce Foundation in Support of Education and Career Opportunities for Auto Techs

ROCKAWAY, NEW JERSEY — March 19, 2024 — TOPDON USA, the nation’s premier provider of cutting-edge technology and advanced tools for auto repair professionals and enthusiasts, announced today the donation of $10,000 cash and $15,000 in products to TechForce Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the education, training and career development of aspiring auto technicians. To date, TOPDON has donated over $66,000 to aid organizations and schools that are dedicated to preparing the next generation of auto technicians around the world.

“According to TechForce Foundation, the need for qualified automotive, diesel, and collision techs in the auto industry is staggering, with demand for new specialists expected to rise to nearly 800,000 by 2027,” said Chad Schnitz, Vice President of TOPDON USA. “As a leading provider of the tools and solutions that auto techs use to be successful in their careers, we understand the need to provide students with more opportunities available in this industry. A career as an auto tech is extremely rewarding, and TechForce Foundation is empowering students from all walks of life and backgrounds with the tools, training and network they need to be successful.”

TOPDON USA’s contributions will support TechForce Foundation’s mission including their work to provide $4 million in scholarship funding in 2024. Since 2017, TechForce has awarded more than $18 million in scholarships and grants to financially disadvantaged students as they obtain their technical education.

“We’re grateful for companies like TOPDON USA that not only recognize but invest in our mission to champion all students to and through their technical education and into careers as professional technicians,” said Jennifer Maher, Chief Executive Officer of TechForce Foundation. “It takes all of us working together and pitching in to make the greatest impact and change the lives of young people through career development.”

Additionally, TOPDON has donated $15,000 in automotive tools and products that will be available to students, providing practical, hands-on training opportunities as students progress through their education. The TOPDON USA products being donated include diagnostic scan tools, battery service tools and thermal imaging cameras.

About TOPDON USA
Founded in 2017 and based in Rockaway, New Jersey, TOPDON USA is a provider of entry-level, mid-level, and advanced tools and solutions for professional technicians, as well as DIY enthusiasts. Globally, TOPDON has over 200 industry-leading engineers and owns over 140 intellectual property rights. The company’s cutting-edge technology helps shops minimize downtime and maximize profits. For more information visit www.topdon.us

###

March 7, 2024May 14, 2024

TechForce Announces Techs Rock Awards Grand Prize Winners, Honors Future and Working Techs for Commitment to Industry

Indianapolis High School Student and San Antonio CarMax Technician Celebrated Nationally for Inspiring Next Generation of Techs in Event at Mecum Glendale

March 7, 2024 — PHOENIX — TechForce Foundation has announced Misael Rodriguez of Ben Davis High School and Dustin Thomas of CarMax as Grand Prize Winners in the 6th annual Techs Rock Awards, recognizing both technical students’ and professional technicians’ commitment to the profession. The Future Tech and Working Tech winners were honored Thursday in a ceremony hosted at Mecum Glendale 2024 at State Farm Stadium. Read the winners’ bios at TechForce.org/TechsRock.

TechForce Foundation’s Techs Rock Awards is the premier awards program honoring student and professional technicians’ dedication to their craft and to motivating others to pursue technical education and careers. An expert panel of celebrity judges reviewed hundreds of nominations to select ten Finalists representing categories including Automotive & Motorsports; Aviation, Motorcycle & Marine; Collision, Restoration & Welding; Diesel; and Emerging Technologies. Misael Rodriguez and Dustin Thomas were selected by popular vote to receive the Grand Prize, with over 10,000 votes cast.

The pressing national demand for top-tier technicians–nearly three job openings for every tech school graduate–drives the Techs Rock Awards. Honorees serve as true role models, inspiring the next generation and fueling the pipeline of future technicians.

“We are thrilled to be able to recognize Misael Rodriguez and Dustin Thomas in person and with the nation,” said Jennifer Maher, CEO of TechForce Foundation. “Their commitment to the technician profession inspires others, and their success is a testament to the opportunities afforded by professional technician careers. Join TechForce in congratulating all of the Techs Rock Awards honorees who keep America moving and help our communities thrive.”

Future Tech Grand Prize Winner Misael Rodriguez is an 11th-grade automotive technology student at Ben Davis High School and Area 31 Career Center in Indianapolis. “I felt the calling to be a technician at age 13 when my uncle and I replaced the starter solenoid on my dad’s truck. I will always remember the feeling I got when the truck started because we fixed it.”

As a first-generation Mexican-American, Misael has had to find his own connections to the industry. SkillsUSA has presented him with these opportunities, and Misael is all in. “I’ll compete for SkillsUSA Auto Maintenance Light and Repair this year with my group of 4. I’m the only first-year student in my group, and we hope to win Regionals!” He is also in the running for SkillsUSA Indiana State Officer and is on a team competing for the organization’s community service award by providing no-cost auto services.

Misael reflected on winning the Future Tech Grand Prize, “Winning the Grand Prize is a milestone achieved with the help of friends, family, community and God. This award will help me with tools and motivate me to continue what I love. I want this opportunity to motivate more students and technicians not to give up and see that anything can be achieved. No matter what race, age, or gender you are, anything is possible with commitment and dedication. My goal is to become a leader, help others, and help my community and peers grow and prosper!”

Working Tech Grand Prize Winner Dustin Thomas is an automotive technician with CarMax in San Antonio. “After seeing from friends how unique and cool the automotive world could be, I was hooked… I worked at a small shop for two years after completing my Associate in Automotive Technology in 2015, and later continued my growth by accepting a position with CarMax.”

Dustin has established himself as a leader in his shop and his community. “I have attained all A1-A8 and L1 ASE advanced certifications, allowing me to be promoted to CarMax’s highest level of technician positions.” Dustin has worked with high school auto tech students and volunteered to support youth as far as 2+ hours from his home.

Dustin remarked on being named Grand Prize Winner, “I’m just amazed and so happy for this opportunity I’ve been given! I wouldn’t be where I am today without my family, friends, and incredible work family at CarMax. CarMax has allowed me tremendous growth in the past 6.5 years, and I’m grateful to be recognized and supported by my leadership. I’d like to thank TechForce for helping shed light on our industry and promote further growth for our future techs. I feel incredibly lucky to have been chosen. I hope my story can inspire our up-and-coming generations to work hard and pursue an education and career in the technical industry.”

As Grand Prize Winners, Misael and Dustin each received a trip to Glendale, Arizona to enjoy Mecum Glendale 2024 and meet and be honored by industry leaders at TechForce’s National Partner Summit. The Grand Prize Winners will also receive a NAPA Carlyle toolbox stocked with Carlyle tools valued at $8K each. Thanks to TechForce partner Hertz, Grand Prize Winners will also receive a week-long rental of a cutting-edge Electric Vehicle (EV) and experience the thrill of eco-friendly, high-performance driving in style! Each of the eight Runners Up will also receive a $500 AutoZone gift card and a GEARWRENCH Modular Tool Set valued up to $1,000.

###

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.

Ford | Workforce Development | TechForce

March 4, 2024May 14, 2024

Ford Dealers and Ford Fund Invest $2 Million in TechForce Scholarships to Train Future Auto Techs

Ford Dealers and Ford Fund Invest $2 Million to Train Future Auto Techs

Scholarships double in second year across ten regions nationwide, promoting diversity and removing financial barriers for students

DEARBORN, Mich., Mar. 4, 2024 — Ford Dealers and Ford Fund, the philanthropic arm of Ford Motor Company, are investing $2 million in scholarship funding in ten regions to help students pursue careers as automotive technicians. Spanning over 20 states and 292 eligible schools, the Ford Auto Tech Scholarship will grant 400 need-based awards to current or future students enrolled in post-secondary auto programs.

The automotive industry continues to face an ongoing shortage of technicians, with over 400,000 techs needed by 2027. Now in its second year, the Ford Auto Tech Scholarship creates opportunities for rewarding, well-paying careers as the industry moves toward electrification and software integration.

“As vehicles become more advanced, we need highly skilled technicians to maintain and service them,” said Elena Ford, Chief Dealer Engagement Officer at Ford. “Partnering with our dealers to invest in these students helps create job opportunities, shapes the future of our communities, and drives growth in our industry.”

The Ford Auto Tech Scholarship is open to individuals pursuing automotive technology degrees or certificates in the ten selected regions, covering various costs associated with their education and may be used for all costs of attendance, including tuition, tools, living expenses, and transportation. During the students’ educational journey and career transition, Ford Dealers in each region will serve as a support system, offering advice, onsite training, and career guidance.

“Every technician plays a vital role in moving our communities forward. In order to solve the shortage of technicians the transportation industry currently faces, and because diversity drives innovation, we need to make the field more accessible for people of all backgrounds,” said Jennifer Maher, Chief Executive Officer of TechForce Foundation. “By partnering with Ford Dealers and Ford Fund to remove barriers to entry and increase greater economic mobility, we pave the way for more communities to thrive.”

The Ford Auto Tech scholarships will be administered by TechForce Foundation, a national nonprofit organization committed to supporting students pursuing technical education and careers as professional technicians. Ford is proud to partner with TechForce to grant $5,000 per student in financial assistance for education and training in auto and auto/diesel at a wide range of accredited institutions.

For Makenna Enga, a student recipient from UTI-Phoenix, this scholarship means breaking free from traditional career paths. “I am extremely passionate about pursuing a technical education in automotive technology for many reasons. To start with, a pretty obvious one is the lack of women in the industry. No one in my family has studied a trade, but I believe I was made for it.”

Last year’s contribution directly resulted in 200 students receiving $1 million in scholarships across four regions: Greater Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, and Phoenix.

Students eligible for the 2024 Ford Auto Tech Scholarship must be pursuing a degree in one of the following regions: Greater Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit, Phoenix, Kansas City, Memphis, Miami, Seattle, and Cincinnati areas. The application process is open from March 4 through August 31, 2024. Scholarships will be awarded on a rolling basis and applications reviewed as received. To learn more about the 2024 Ford Auto Tech Scholarship, or to apply, please visit the TechForce website.

###

About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan, committed to helping build a better world, where every person is free to move and pursue their dreams. The company’s Ford+ plan for growth and value creation combines existing strengths, new capabilities and always-on relationships with customers to enrich experiences for customers and deepen their loyalty. Ford develops and delivers innovative, must-have Ford trucks, sport utility vehicles, commercial vans and cars and Lincoln luxury vehicles, along with connected services. The company does that through three customer-centered business segments: Ford Blue, engineering iconic gas-powered and hybrid vehicles; Ford Model e, inventing breakthrough EVs along with embedded software that defines exceptional digital experiences for all customers; and Ford Pro, helping commercial customers transform and expand their businesses with vehicles and services tailored to their needs. Additionally, Ford is pursuing mobility solutions through Ford Next, and provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. Ford employs about 173,000 people worldwide. More information about the company and its products and services is available at corporate.ford.com.

About Ford Motor Company Fund
As the global philanthropic arm of Ford Motor Company, Ford Fund focuses on providing access to essential services, education for the future of work and entrepreneurship opportunities for under-resourced and underrepresented communities. Ford Fund’s partnerships and programming are designed to be responsive to unique community needs, ensuring people have equitable opportunities to move forward. Harnessing Ford’s scale, resources and mobility expertise, Ford Fund drives meaningful impact through grantmaking, Ford Resource and Engagement Centers and employee volunteerism. For more information, visit fordfund.org or join us at @FordFund on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

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.

February 24, 2024March 20, 2024

Inside TechForce | February 2024

5 DAY COUNTDOWN!!!

TechForce Foundation has named the Finalists in its Techs Rock Awards and opened the public People’s Choice Grand Prize Vote!

One Future Technician and one Working Technician Finalist, as chosen by the public vote, will be named Grand Prize Winners. Read their bios and get to know more about them!

Voting is open now through February 28, 2024, at TechForce.org/TechsRock.

VOTE NOW

NEW IN TECHFORCE

Leaaderboard Challenge

Harbor Freight Tools is back with an awesome Leaderboard Challenge! The top 3 students and the top 3 instructors with the most points in the network will win gift certificates to Harbor Freight. Looks like John DeSantis, a High School Student, and Mark Borisyuk of NASCAR Tech have the lead so far in the student category. It is anyone’s game with one month left!

Mecum Events

With VIP tickets provided exclusively to TechForce student users, you can gain priority access to prime viewing areas, ensuring they’re at the forefront of the action! Check out to see if there is an event in your area!

Show Us Your Ink

TechForce’s “Show Us Your Ink” is the place to flaunt your tattoos! From automotive-inspired designs to tributes to beloved vehicles, it’s all about sharing your ink and the stories behind it.

CHECK OUT WHAT’S NEW

HELP STUDENTS FIND A TECHNICAL EDUCATION AND CAREER THAT FITS.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

TOPDON USA Makes $25,000 Donation to TechForce Foundation in Support of Education and Career Opportunities for Auto Techs

TechForce Announces Techs Rock Awards Grand Prize Winners, Honors Future and Working Techs for Commitment to Industry

Indianapolis High School Student and San Antonio CarMax Technician Celebrated Nationally for Inspiring Next Generation of Techs in Event at Mecum Glendale

Ford Dealers and Ford Fund Invest $2 Million to Train Future Auto Techs

Scholarships double in second year across ten regions nationwide, promoting diversity and removing financial barriers for students

Please share your contact details and a TechForce team member will contact you.