Spark News | January 2020
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TechForce hosted a special Women Techs Rock edition of our “Pit Crew Challenge” at the 5th Annual Future Car Collector Show, presented by TechForce Foundation’s newest partner ClassicCars.com.
TechForce Assessment Connects Students with Tech Education & Careers
NEWS RELEASE
TechForce Foundation Launches “Be A Pathfinder” Campaign to Connect Students with Hands-On Transportation Technician Education & Careers
What’s Your Path? Finding a Career that Fits Your Learning Style
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Jan. 21, 2019 — Across the country, students and their families are looking forward to what the new year may have in store. One nonprofit, TechForce Foundation, is working to help many of them discover a path they might not have considered: a career working as a transportation technician.
There is a massive workforce shortage in the transportation industry, and thousands of students across the country are looking for an education and career path that suits their strengths. TechForce Foundation’s mission is to help students and parents recognize that a career as a technician is a valid and achievable alternative to a four-year college degree — or no degree at all.
On Tuesday, Jan. 21, TechForce Foundation is launching the “Be a Pathfinder” campaign to highlight education and career opportunities for students who have a natural talent for working with their hands. The “Be a Pathfinder” resources let students and their parents identify their learning styles through a quiz, and receive a free report with tailor-made tips for career and education success. If students take the learning style quiz during the campaign (Jan. 21 – Jan. 31), they will also be entered to win a TechForce Foundation gift package, including a $50 Shell gift card and other prizes.
“The learning style quiz and personalized resources not only help students and parents recognize the opportunities of a career as a transportation technician, but also help them understand how and why they’re a fit for these careers,” TechForce Foundation Executive Director Jennifer Maher said.
The campaign encourages students to be “pathfinders” by understanding their unique strengths and using that knowledge to find the best education and career path. TechForce Foundation is also encouraging parents, teachers, and other influential figures in teens’ lives to embrace and support technical and hands-on career paths that may be a good fit for those students.
Studies indicate that the U.S. will need 1.2 million new technicians to join the workforce within the next 10 years. That translates to about 120,000 new jobs per year available to aspiring automotive, diesel, motorcycle, and other transportation professionals.
“Though there are many viable, high-paying job opportunities in STEM-related careers like those in the transportation technician field, students have been told a traditional four-year degree is the only path to success,” said Maher. “The truth is that we’re all wired differently, and hands-on learners can thrive in these positions.”
Students and their parents can take the quiz by visiting TechForce.org/MyPath. The campaign will run Jan. 21 through Jan. 31, with various videos, stories, and resources available on TechForce Foundation’s website, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.
Take the “Be A Pathfinder” Learning Style Quiz:
Watch the “Be a Pathfinder” Video:
techforcefoundation-1.wistia.com/medias/bkva04buiu
Join the “Be A Pathfinder” Conversation:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/techforcefoundation/
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/techforcefound
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/techforcefoundation/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/techforce-foundation
About TechForce Foundation:
TechForce Foundation is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) with the mission to champion students to and through their technical education and into careers as professional technicians. TechForce awards more than $2.0 million in scholarships and grants annually, thanks to its generous corporate sponsors and donors. It also spearheads an industry-wide initiative to encourage and support more young people to pursue the vehicle technician profession. For more information, visit www.techforce.org.
Media Contacts:
Mike Pressendo, mpressendo@techforce.org, 602-363-8861
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RPM Foundation to honor Indy Car racer Lyn St. James at joint reception with TechForce Foundation
NEWS RELEASE
RPM Foundation to Honor
Indy Car Racer Lyn St. James with
2019 Mentor of the Year Award
CHICAGO, Ill. — January 15, 2020 — Former Indy Car racer Lyn St. James will be honored on January 18, 2020 with the third annual RPM Foundation Mentor of the Year award, during a joint celebration with TechForce Foundation.
RPM – a part of America’s Automotive Trust – is a national non-profit organization that seeks to identify and support the interests and training of those who have a passion for the restoration of classic automobiles. Through the organization’s guidance and network of educational and industry partnerships, young people with such interests are directed toward formal training and mentorships that will propel them to rewarding careers in the collector car world.
A long-time RPM ambassador and mentor, St. James is being honored as an individual who exemplifies the ideals of the organization by providing advice and encouragement to young enthusiasts. Among her many professional accomplishments, St. James has 11 CART and five Indy Racing League starts to her name and is one of only nine women who have qualified for the Indianapolis 500. She was also the first woman to win the Indianapolis 500 Rookie of the Year award and was named by Sports Illustrated as one of its “Top 100 Women Athletes of the Century.”
“Lyn epitomizes what RPM and America’s Automotive Trust are all about,” said CEO Jennifer Maher. “Her dedication to our mission of preserving America’s car culture really resounds with the young people she mentors, and her enthusiasm has an indelible effect on those she works with. She’s an incredible inspiration – especially to young women in what has traditionally been a male-dominated profession – and we couldn’t be more proud to have her on our team.”
Past recipients of the RPM Mentor of the Year award include President and CEO of the Sportscar Vintage Racing Association Tony Parella and NASA astronaut Andrew Feustel.
The award ceremony will take place during a celebration at the Hyatt Gainey Ranch in Scottsdale, Arizona, hosted by America’s Automotive Trust and its partnering organizations, RPM Foundation, TechForce Foundation and LeMay-America’s Car Museum.
About The RPM Foundation (rpm.foundation)
RPM Foundation supports training and supporting the next generation of restoration and preservation craftsmen specializing in automotive, motorcycle and marine. RPM Foundation works to ensure that the critical skills necessary to preserve and restore collector vehicles are not lost by providing scholarships, grants and educational experiences to students and organizations committed to hands-on training of the trades. RPM Foundation is supporting organization of America’s Automotive Trust.
About America’s Automotive Trust (www.aat.org)
America’s Automotive Trust (AAT), headquartered in Tacoma, Washington, is a not-for-profit corporation that seeks to secure America’s automotive heritage and to transfer the skills and knowledge necessary for the future of collector vehicles and the enthusiast community for generations to come. AAT is made up of four founding members: LeMay – America’s Car Museum, the RPM Foundation, Club Auto and the Concours Club.
About TechForce Foundation (www.techforce.org)
TechForce Foundation is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) with the mission to champion students to and through their technical education and into careers as professional technicians. TechForce awards more than $2.0 million in scholarships and grants annually, thanks to its generous corporate sponsors and donors. It also spearheads an industry-wide initiative to encourage and support more young people to pursue the vehicle technician profession. For more information, visit www.techforce.org.
Contact:
AAT/ACM/RPM – Mike Bush (253) 779-8490 mike.bush@aat.org
TechForce – Mike Pressendo (602) 363-8861 mpressendo@techforce.org
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Announcing Winter 2019 Brienne Davis Memorial Scholarship Award Winners
Meet the Fall 2019 recipients of the
Brienne Davis Memorial Scholarship
Scottsdale, Ariz – January 14, 2020 – NASCAR Technical Institute students Genna Dalrymple and Empriss Garrett have been named as the Fall/Winter 2019 recipients of TechForce Foundation’s Brienne Davis Memorial Scholarship. Awarded in memory of NASCAR official Brienne Davis, this $10,000 scholarship supports female students with financial need and a passion for the industry.
About Genna Dalrymple (NASCAR Technical Institute)
Described by a Dean of Students as “remarkable” and possessing great “grace and maturity,” Genna is looking for a career where she can be independent, competent, and professional, and help her family and friends. Combine this with a lifetime of family get-togethers where NASCAR races were “prioritized over homemade mashed potatoes” and it’s not surprising to find her at NASCAR Technical Institute where she’s currently taking Automotive Technology with NASCAR Engines I & II.
In her own words: “I can appreciate the team and effort that it takes to get the car on the track, as well as the individual’s control of the car under such extreme conditions. I also think the history of NASCAR is captivating, how it has evolved to make it what it is today.”
About Empriss Garrett (UTI-Long Beach/ NASCAR Technical Institute)
Like Genna, Empriss, too, comes from a ‘car family’. She says, “My grandfather worked for GM for 25 years, and I remember all the exciting stories my mother told me about him. He modified different cars that he received from the GM factory. I would fantasize about how the cars would run and look. When I was 16 yrs. old and looking for my first car, my mother encouraged me to pick a car that I could modify and race. I thought she was joking, but she wasn’t! She was opening the door to a life-changing moment. I would say that was when I began this love affair with cars.”Having completed her Automotive Technology core program at UTI-Long Beach, Empriss has relocated across the country to complete her training with the NASCAR elective/Pit Crew.
In her own words: “My dream career is to be the top-ranked female race car driver in NASCAR, FORMULA 1 Competitions, and NHRA industry. I’m passionate about cars, which is why I decided to attend UTI. I’ve always planned to attend the NASCAR Program, but after completing all of my classes, I’m for sure that is what I was born to do.”
“My goal is to have my own all-female race team and I want to help develop strong entrepreneurial leaders within the industry. I want to lead by example and show women we can be successful in a male dominated industry. Being that I was the only female in my (core program) graduating class, I’m setting new standards of what women can achieve and we are breaking new grounds every day. If one woman sees my journey and is inspired I feel as though I am fulfilling my personal mission.”
For information on TechForce Foundation’s scholarships, visit techforce.org/scholarships.
2019 Techs Rock People’s Choice Grand Prize Winner
NEWS RELEASE
TechForce Announces the 2019 Techs Rock People’s Choice
Grand Prize Winner – Melina Algier of Farnsworth Chevrolet
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — December 10, 2019 — TechForce Foundation, announces that Melina Algier, a service technician at Farnsworth Chevrolet in Canandaigua, New York has been named the 2019 People’s Choice Grand Prize Winner of its second annual Techs Rock Awards. The awards recognize working technicians who are striving to mentor and inspire the next generation of technicians, bringing excellence to their workplaces and communities, and demonstrating passion and commitment to the profession. TechForce is a non-profit organization focused on championing students to and through their technical education and into careers as professional technicians.
Algier prevailed over four other finalists who competed in an online, people’s choice vote in which more than 4,000 votes were cast. In addition to the TechForce $1,000 tool voucher sponsored by Snap-on® that she received for winning Rookie of the Year, Melina will receive roundtrip airfare and hotel accommodations to Scottsdale, Arizona to enjoy Arizona Auto Week 2020 and be honored at the annual TechForce Foundation Summit.
When Melina Algier heard she won the Grand Prize vote, she exclaimed, “That’s amazing! I’m honestly shocked… it’s an honor.” According to Algier, “I have dedicated myself to proving that women can work in the automotive industry and that a young adult could have the strength and ability to learn hands-on through their peers and an open understanding mind. Given the opportunity GM gave me, I’ve been able to move up to line tech in under a year. They’ve given me every resource I need to move up such as: training, special tools, resources and a friendly environment.”
“The fact that the public chose Melina as it Grand Prize Winner shows that attitudes about women techs are changing as they are being recognized for their capable contributions. She sets a great example for others to follow,” states Jennifer Maher, Executive Director of TechForce Foundation.
About Melina from her nomination: “Melina joined the shop a year and a half ago with only one year experience as a lube tech at an establishment that told her that was all she could do because she was a girl. As the first female technician in our dealership, she quickly graduated from maintenance work to a line technician. In 12 months she has completed over 70 GM certified courses and is now ready to start testing for ASE certifications. Melina now trains new incoming students and interns… She simply gets along with everyone. Mel has a great ability to work smarter, not stronger. She is very ingenious in using tools and research to make heavy jobs easier. She has a tremendous work ethic, arrives on time every day, and is eager to listen and learn from senior technicians. On days with heavy snow, Melina is the first to work and helps clear snow from sidewalks and customers’ cars. Melina has broken a lot of stereotypes around the industry being only for men. She is a wonderful example of dedication and pursuing the career that you want, not the one others think you should have…”
“It’s been amazing to see the energy, enthusiasm and engagement the industry’s had for the Techs Rock Awards,” shares Julia Landauer, participating judge and NASCAR race car driver. “This award isn’t about how fast they can turn a wrench or their technical achievements, but about giving back, being involved in the lives of future techs, and helping others who want to follow in their steps succeed.”
More than 280 working techs nationwide were nominated for one of five categories. TechForce Foundation’s panel of industry judges selected category winners who then competed in a national online vote for Peoples’ Choice Grand Prize Winner. Category judges included Bogi Lateiner, Bogi’s Garage; Greg Rintala, Snap-on Tools; Lyn St. James, race car driver; Tommy and Stephanie Pike, Tommy Pike Customs; and Julia Landauer, NASCAR driver. Category winners were:
- Pay It Forward – Jason Katzenberger, Kunes Country Ford in Delavan, Wisconsin
- Rookie of the Year – Melina Algier, Farnsworth Chevrolet in Canandaigua, New York
- Die Hard Tech – Christopher Owen,M. Burritt Motors in Oswego, New York
- Outstanding Mentor – Michael Owens, Fullerton Ford in Somerville, New Jersey
- Barrier Buster – Samantha Britton, Billy Howell Lincoln Ford in Cumming, Georgia
To learn more about the 2019 Techs Rock Awards and the other category winners, please visit: www.TechForce.org/TechsRock
Photos at:
- https://techforce.org/wp-content/uploads/Techs-Rock-Awards-2019_Finalist- Graphic_Grand-Prize-Winner_Melina-Algier.png
- https://techforce.org/wp-content/uploads/Finalist-Photo_Melina_Algier.jpg
About TechForce Foundation(www.techforce.org)
TechForce Foundation is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) with the mission to champion students to and through their technical education and into careers as professional technicians. TechForce awards more than $2.0 million in scholarships and grants annually, thanks to its generous corporate sponsors and donors, and spearheads FutureTech Success®, the industry-wide initiative to encourage and support more young people to pursue the vehicle technician profession. For more information, visit www.techforce.org.
Media Contact:
TechForce – Mike Pressendo, Chief Marketing & Strategy Officer
TechForce Foundation
623-445-9354
mpressendo@techforce.org
-end-
Announcing 2019 Techs Rock Awards Category Winners
NEWS RELEASE
TechForce Foundation Announces its 2019 Techs Rock Awards Winners
Five transportation technicians recognized as outstanding mentors, role models and professionals – now compete for People’s Choice Grand Prize Award.
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — December 2, 2019 — TechForce Foundation, a non-profit organization focused on championing students to and through their technical education and into careers as professional technicians, announces the 2019 winners of its second annual Techs Rock Awards. The awards recognize working technicians who are striving to mentor and inspire the next generation of technicians, bringing excellence to their workplaces and communities, and demonstrating passion and commitment to the profession.
TechForce Foundation, a non-profit organization focused on championing students to and through their technical education and into careers as professional technicians, announces the 2019 winners of its second annual Techs Rock Awards. The awards recognize working technicians who are striving to mentor and inspire the next generation of technicians, bringing excellence to their workplaces and communities, and demonstrating passion and commitment to the profession.
“Our country’s technicians are skilled professionals who also give generously of their time and talent –both at work and in their communities– to inspire the next generation of qualified technicians,” states Jennifer Maher, Executive Director of TechForce Foundation. “They deserve our appreciation and recognition. We are pleased to see women win two categories this year as we continue to raise awareness around their capable contributions.”
More than 250 working techs nationwide were nominated for one of five categories, including Pay it Forward, Rookie of the Year, Die Hard Tech, Outstanding Mentor, and Barrier Buster. TechForce Foundation’s panel of industry judges included Bogi Lateiner, Bogi’s Garage; Greg Rintala, Snap-on Tools; Lyn St. James, Racecar Driver; Tommy and Stephanie Pike, Tommy Pike Customs; and Julia Landauer, NASCAR Driver. Each celebrity judge selected a category winner, who will receive a TechForce $1,000 tool voucher sponsored by Snap-on®.
Congratulations to Pay It Forward winner Jason Katzenberger – Kunes Country Ford in Delavan, Wisconsin; Rookie of the Year winner Melina Algier – Farnsworth Chevrolet in Canandaigua, New York; Die Hard Tech winner Christopher Owen – R.M. Burritt Motors in Oswego, New York; Outstanding Mentor winner Michael Owens – Fullerton Ford in Somerville, New Jersey; Barrier Buster winner Samantha Britton – Billy Howell Lincoln Ford in Cumming, Georgia.
These five category winners now compete in an online, people’s choice award vote that will run through Friday, December 6 at 5 PM EST. The public can vote at techforce.org/vote. The Grand Prize Winner will receive roundtrip airfare and hotel accommodations to Scottsdale, Arizona to enjoy Arizona Auto Week 2020 and be honored at the annual TechForce Foundation Summit.
About the 2019 TechForce Foundation Techs Rock Award winners:
“Pay it Forward” Category Winner:
Jason Katzenberger – Kunes Country Ford in Delavan, Wisconsin
Why Jason was nominated: “As a diesel tech, most of his clients rely on their vehicles for work and can’t necessarily get a loaner or rental. Jason often stays late, comes in early and works through his lunch breaks to ensure customers vehicles are completed when they need to be. When a customer could not afford their repairs, Jason talked to the dealership owner and arranged to repair the vehicle without being paid for his work as long as the dealership covered the parts cost. Jason even stayed late to complete the repair. He not only loves his work, he genuinely cares for his community.”
“Rookie of the Year” Category Winner:
Melina Algier – Farnsworth Chevrolet in Canandaigua, New York
Why Melina was nominated: “Melina joined the shop a year and a half ago and is the first female technician in the dealership. She quickly graduated from maintenance work to a line technician. In 12 months she has completed over 70 GM certified courses and is now ready to start testing for ASE certifications. Melina has broken a lot of stereotypes around the industry being only for men. She is a wonderful example of dedication and pursuing the career that you want, not the one others think you should have…”
“Die Hard Tech” Category Winner:
Christopher Owen – R.M. Burritt Motors in Oswego, New York
Why Christopher was nominated: “Chris has been employed at Burritt Chevrolet-Buick, for 10 years. In that time he has risen to the top of the ranks. He holds the highest long-term production average of any employee, and will soon achieve World Class Technician (WCT) status. Chris is an excellent mentor to our apprentice technicians. He is sparking a passion for production and education in the next generation. Chris has participated in EVERY employee volunteer day available, and is typically the one leading the charge.
“Outstanding Mentor” Category Winner:
Michael Owens – Fullerton Ford in Somerville, New Jersey
Why Michael was nominated: “Over his 30 years as a member of the Fullerton Ford team Michael has shown leadership and compassion. He is always there for anyone that needs guidance, and leads the team by example. For the past 20 years Michael is the main technician that trains all the new hires. He is always willing to help and also willing to learn. He is a very positive influence. Michael has a calm way of helping new employees, and will always stop what he doing to help somebody else…”
“Barrier Buster” Category Winner:
Samantha Britton – Billy Howell Lincoln Ford in Cumming, Georgia
Why Samantha was nominated: “Samantha is the only female technician in our dealership. She started her career 13 years ago as a porter, and is now one of our lead technicians. She has a tireless attitude toward growing our younger technicians’ knowledge and abilities. …She has eclipsed the barrier that female technicians often face in this industry and has earned the respect of her peers and co-workers through her outstanding work ethic and attitude. She shares in her team’s success and failures, and puts the needs of the team in front of her own.”
To learn more about the 2019 Techs Rock Awards, please visit: www.TechForce.org/TechsRock
About TechForce Foundation(www.techforce.org)
TechForce Foundation is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) with the mission to champion students to and through their technical education and into careers as professional technicians. TechForce awards more than $2.0 million in scholarships and grants annually, thanks to its generous corporate sponsors and donors, and spearheads FutureTech Success®, the industry-wide initiative to encourage and support more young people to pursue the vehicle technician profession. For more information, visit www.techforce.org.
Media Contact:
TechForce – Mike Pressendo, Chief Marketing & Strategy Officer
TechForce Foundation
623-445-9354
mpressendo@techforce.org
Strategic alliance announced between America’s Automotive Trust and TechForce Foundation
NEWS RELEASE
TechForce Foundation and America’s Automotive Trust Announce Strategic Alliance and Shared CEO
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The integration of complementary missions and overall cost efficiencies promise more value to the constituents served by both organizations
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Jennifer Maher will lead wide-ranging efforts for the new alliance as CEO
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. and TACOMA, Wash. — October 29, 2019 — TechForce Foundation and America’s Automotive Trust have announced a new strategic alliance that unites the organizations under the leadership of one shared vision and CEO. The new alliance focuses on programming that celebrates the past, present and future of mobility and inspires future generations of students to consider a career path in automotive technology.
“The alliance between America’s Automotive Trust and TechForce underscores both organizations’ commitment to being as efficient as possible while making the largest contribution we can in furthering our respective goals,” said Warren DeBardelaben, Chairman of TechForce Foundation. “Bringing these two groups together leads to a stronger collaborative impact on the auto industry, the culture and celebration of the car culture – and to our collective ability to provide career paths in the automotive, diesel, motorcycle, marine, motorsports and restoration industry.”
“Working synergistically allows both of our organizations to make a greater impact on the automotive industry as a whole, whether that’s new or vintage automobiles,” said Corry McFarland, Chairman of America’s Automotive Trust. Chairmen DeBardelaben and McFarland announced the strategic alliance, naming nonprofit management veteran Jennifer Maher as the dually-appointed CEO of the entities.
“The strategic alliance is designed to achieve three primary objectives – unite complementary goals under a single unified vision, streamline cost efficiencies, and concentrate those efficiencies on providing a greater impact on the missions set forth by TechForce and America’s Automotive Trust,” said Maher. “I’m both honored and excited to be leading this innovative collaboration.”
Maher added that the alliance shares the common vision of being “the” anchor point for those already in the industry – enthusiasts/collectors, technicians and other workforce professionals – while nurturing and developing interest for a next generation of participants. “Through such collaboration, our alliance can effectively balance celebrating automotive history with an exciting future that includes automation, electrification and other new technologies and services,” said Maher.
Maher assumed her new post effective August 1, serving as CEO for America’s Automotive Trust and its partnering service organizations, RPM Foundation and LeMay-America’s Car Museum. She takes over the CEO duties from David Madeira as he retires after 17 years with the organization. Madeira remains Vice Chairman of America’s Automotive Trust’s board of directors and now also serves on TechForce’s board of directors. Likewise, Barry Fodor, a current director of TechForce Foundation, has joined America’s Automotive Trust’s board of directors.
Maher enjoys a 27-year career in nonprofit management, corporate strategic alliances, fundraising, membership, marketing and communications, having served on the national staff for Make-A-Wish America, YMCA of the USA and The Nature Conservancy. Heading up strategic alliances, Jennifer has personally negotiated over $100 million worth of cause partnerships with Disney, General Motors, Nissan North America, Ford Motor Company, PepsiCo, NASCAR, Kimberly-Clark, JCPenney, ESPN, Advance Auto Parts, Sports Illustrated, Universal Technical Institute and Shell Pennzoil, to name a few.
“Kids no longer tinker in the garage; they’re less likely to get their driver’s license when they turn 16; and they view the car more as a vessel to get from here to there than as an extension of their personality or their ‘freedom’ like other generations did,” reflects Maher. “Couple this with the generalization that a four-year degree is the only road to success, and we’ve drastically reduced our skilled trade workforce. This deficit is what this new collaboration will attempt to influence by ensuring a future workforce that keeps America rolling.”
For more information on AAT, visit www.aat.org. More information on the TechForce Foundation can be found at www.techforce.org.
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About America’s Automotive Trust (www.aat.org)
America’s Automotive Trust (AAT), headquartered in Tacoma, Washington, is a not-for-profit corporation that seeks to secure America’s automotive heritage and to transfer the skills and knowledge necessary for the future of collector vehicles and the enthusiast community for generations to come. AAT is made up of four founding members: LeMay – America’s Car Museum, the RPM Foundation, Club Auto and the Concours Club.
About TechForce Foundation(www.techforce.org)
TechForce Foundation is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) with the mission to champion students to and through their technical education and into careers as professional transportation technicians. The Foundation distributes more than $1.5 million in scholarships and grants annually, thanks to its generous corporate sponsors and donors, and is spearheading FutureTech Success®, the industry-wide initiative to help encourage and support more young people to pursue the vehicle technician profession. For more information, visit www.techforce.org.
Contact:
TechForce – Mike Pressendo (602) 363-8861 mpressendo@techforce.org
AAT/ACM/RPM – Mike Bush (253) 779-8490 mike.bush@aat.org
PCG – Shane Smith (424) 903-3685 ssmith@pacificcommunicationsgroup.com
TechForce Foundation Honors Technicians at Las Vegas Concours d’Elegance Opening Gala
TechForce Foundation Honors Technicians at Las Vegas Concours d’Elegance Opening Gala
At historic inaugural event, TechForce highlights important role technicians play in classic car restoration;
Receives financial support for scholarships and technician training programs through gala fundraiser
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — October 25, 2019 —TechForce was honored to be the charity beneficiary of the inaugural Las Vegas Concours d’ Elegance Gala on October 25th. It was a spectacular evening representing some of the most significant car collectors, judges, and our esteemed sponsors, including Shell, Pennzoil and UTI.
The evening celebrated technicians highlighted by Christ Morillon, who spoke about her educational journey and career as a technician. It also featured high school students from Southeast Career Technical Academy (SECTA) along with technicians from area dealerships including Gaudin Porsche, Findlay Cadillac, and Mercedes Benz of Henderson.
The big surprise of the evening was the auction of a live painting by automotive artist Kevin Paige, a 1938 Phantom Corsair at the Welcome to Las Vegas sign. The art purchased by Joseph Cassini, III, his wife Margie, and their daughter Caroline, who share interests in the automobile hobby. The Cassini’s have attended numerous Concours d’Elegance events, in the U.S. as well as Europe. The Cassini’s have had the fortune of having their cars judged as some of the best in the world, including winning Best of Show twice at the renowned Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.
Monies raised through the auction will benefit future scholarships and support the garage makeover of SECTA, the oldest automotive tech high school in Nevada.
TechForce auction to support CTE & STEM with LV Concours d’Elegance
NEWS RELEASE
Online Mobile Auction to Benefit Educational Non-profit
TechForce Foundation® Begins October 18 at 6 p.m. PT
Auction Items Include Once-in-a-Lifetime Sport and Driving Experiences
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — October 18, 2019 – An online mobile auction to support TechForce Foundation – a 501(c)(3) non-profit charity that supports students pursuing transportation related technical careers – will begin October 18, 2019 at 6 p.m. ET. The auction coincides with the naming of TechForce as the official charity beneficiary of the inaugural Las Vegas Concours d’Elegance (LVCE) Opening Night Gala and will last through the Gala’s conclusion on Friday, October 25. The gala itself will be held at the Keep Memory Alive Center and is expected to draw more than 700 guests. To bid in the auction after it goes live at 6 p.m. PT click here>>.
TechForce Foundation champions students to and through their education and into careers as professional technicians. “The automotive industry is an exciting place for young people, and by encouraging their education and training we not only keep a real hands-on profession alive, but we help students to pursue a good-paying life-long career,” said Jennifer Maher, TechForce Foundation CEO. “The funds we hope to raise from the mobile auction will aid in scholarships and the expansion of continued grants.”
The TechForce Foundation mobile auction is available for bidding or donations in two ways:
Techforce.givesmart.com
Text: techforce to 52182
Among the notable auction items are sports and driving packages ranging from VIP excursions at the 2020 Acura Grand Prix in Long Beach, 2020 Toronto Indy Car Race, Pennzoil 400 in Las Vegas, Formula 1 Grand Prix du Canada 2020 and Formula 1 Grand Prix de Monaco 2020, to meet-and-greets with racing legends such as Richard Petty and Bobby Rahal, afternoons with automotive celebrities including Chip Foose, Mike Brewer and Bogi Lateiner, a live painting by preeminent motorsport artist Kevin Paige, and Kentucky Derby, Barrett-Jackson and ESPY Award experiences. To view a full list of auction items after it goes live at 6 p.m. PT visit the auction website>>.
Dollars raised through the Las Vegas Concours d’ Elegance Auction and Gala support TechForce Foundation’s charitable purposes, including high-school auto shop makeovers, starting with Southeast Career Technical Academy* (SECTA), Nevada’s oldest career and technical education (CTE) high school; scholarships for post-secondary technical training; and TechForce’s campaign to break the harmful stigmas that plague the technician profession.
In addition to the online auction, $50 of every Gala ticket purchased goes directly to TechForce Foundation. To purchase Gala tickets click here>>.
About TechForce Foundation
TechForce Foundation is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) with the mission to champion students to and through their technical education and into careers as professional transportation technicians. The Foundation distributes more than $2.0 million in scholarships and grants annually, thanks to its generous corporate sponsors and donors, and is spearheading FutureTech Success®, the industry-wide initiative to help encourage and support more young people to pursue the vehicle technician profession. For more information, visit www.techforce.org.
About Las Vegas Concours d’Elegance (LVCE)
In the inaugural year, the 2019 Las Vegas Concours d’Elegance brings the historic automobile show to the entertainment capital of the world. LVCE exhibits over 20 classes of rare and unique automobiles invited from around the world, most never before shown in Las Vegas. The four-day event will be hosted at some of Las Vegas’ most prestigious locations including, the Keep Memory Alive Event Center, DragonRidge Country Club at MacDonald Highlands and the iconic Las Vegas Blvd (The Las Vegas Strip). For more information, visit lasvegasconcours.com or follow @LasVegasConcours on Facebook and Instagram.
Links
Online mobile auction: https://techforce.givesmart.com
Opening Night Gala tickets: https://techforce.org/lasvegasconcoursgala
Media Contacts
For TechForce Foundation: Mike Pressendo, mpressendo@techforce.org, 602-363-8861
For Las Vegas Concours d’Elegance: Julian Lupo, julianl@quillinlv.com, 702-818-1637
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John Force Racing joins Advance Auto Parts in supporting TechForce Foundation
NEWS RELEASE
John Force Racing Joins Advance Auto Parts in supporting
TechForce Foundation’s FutureTech Success® Initiative
Organizations will kick off expanded partnership at 2019 NHRA Mellow Yellow Drag Racing Series
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — October 10, 2019 — Advance Auto Parts, a major sponsor of John Force Racing, is bringing the team’s popularity and influence to TechForce Foundation®’s FutureTech Success Initiative, which seeks to educate young men and women, as well as their parents and influencers, about the myriad of opportunities existing in transportation technician careers. John Force Racing will support Advance and TechForce Foundation at races throughout the 2019 NHRA Mellow Yellow Drag Racing Series.
During the 2019 NHRA Mellow Yellow Drag Racing season, Advance Auto Parts, TechForce Foundation and John Force Racing will host local students enrolled in transportation technical programs for a day at the races. These students will be treated to special hospitality events at the John Force Racing pit with the opportunity to meet the team’s drivers. Through this event, students will see for themselves what it takes to be NHRA Top Fuel and Funny Car superstars.
“It is imperative that we work as hard as possible to recruit and train the next generation of automotive technicians,” said Lauren Beaulieu, VP of Professional & Product Marketing at Advance Auto Parts. “Advance is proud to partner with John Force Racing to continue our support of TechForce Foundation’s FutureTech Success Initiative, giving young people the opportunity to see the many opportunities available to them when they choose a career in the automotive aftermarket.”
Developed by leading educational nonprofit 501(c)(3) TechForce Foundation, the FutureTech Success® initiative is an industry-wide effort driving tomorrow’s workforce of technicians by inspiring, supporting and connecting middle and high-school students and their influencers with the resources necessary to support their technical education and career development. Since joining in 2016 Advance Auto Parts has pledged $200,000 in support of the campaign.
“We are so excited to get involved with TechForce Foundation and their incredible FutureTech Success® initiative to solve the technician shortage,” said John Force. “This industry means so much to us and without our drivers and pit crew, none of this would be possible. It’s great that students came out to watch all that goes in to allowing us to race and do what we do best!”
“Experience is a key motivator in this industry, so having students out there in the pit atmosphere to watch what goes into transforming the Top Fuel dragsters and Funny Cars between races is inspiring,” said Jennifer Maher, CEO and Executive Director of TechForce Foundation. “Advance Auto Parts has been a fundamental connector in making this event happen for our students and we could not be more thankful! We are looking forward to continuing this great partnership with one of the biggest leaders in the industry!”
About John Force Racing
John Force Racing, Inc., based in Yorba Linda, Calif., and Brownsburg, Ind., is a professional sports dynasty, one that has earned 20 NHRA championships and claimed 278 professional victories in Funny Car (268) and Top Fuel (10). Led by team owner and driver John Force, a 16-time Funny Car world champion, 1996 Driver of the Year for all of American motor racing, 2011 International Motorsports Hall of Fame inductee, and driver of the PEAK Coolant and Motor Oil Chevrolet Camaro SS Funny Car, JFR is additionally comprised of Auto Club of Southern California Chevrolet Camaro SS driver Robert Hight, 2017 and 2009 Funny Car world champion and 2005 NHRA Rookie of the Year; Advance Auto Parts Top Fuel driver Brittany Force, 2017 Top Fuel world champion and 2013 NHRA Rookie of the Year; and Montana Brand / Rocky Mountain Twist driver Austin Prock, 2019 Rookie of the Year candidate. For more information, please visit johnforceracing.com.
About Advance Auto Parts
Advance Auto Parts, Inc. is a leading automotive aftermarket parts provider that serves both professional installer and do-it-yourself customers. As of July 13, 2019, Advance operated 4,912 stores and 150 Worldpac branches in the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The Company also serves 1,250 independently owned Carquest branded stores across these locations in addition to Mexico, the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, British Virgin Islands. Additional information about Advance, including employment opportunities, customer services, and online shopping for parts, accessories and other offerings can be found at www.AdvanceAutoParts.com.
About TechForce Foundation
TechForce Foundation is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) with the mission to champion students to and through their technical education and into careers as professional transportation technicians. The Foundation distributes more than $2.0 million in scholarships and grants annually, thanks to its generous corporate sponsors and donors, and is spearheading FutureTech Success®, the industry-wide initiative to help encourage and support more young people to pursue the vehicle technician profession. For more information, visit www.techforce.org.
Media Contacts
For Advance Auto Parts: Matt Johns, matt_johns@richards.com, 214-891-5707
For John Force Racing: Sara Slaughter, sara@johnforceracing.com, 951-212-9818
For TechForce Foundation: Mike Pressendo, mpressendo@techforce.org, 623-445-9354
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