tforg_admin, Author at TechForce

A technician work on a crane, with her quote "Because I'm a Tech I love what I do" superimposed over the image.

August 24, 2022August 27, 2022

TechForce Launches Campaign Promoting Skilled Trade Careers “Because I’m A Tech”

TechForce Launches Campaign Promoting
Skilled Trade Careers “Because I’m A Tech”

Campaign Inspires Interest in Technician Careers, Provides Unique Resource to Turbocharge Futures with TechForce - The First and Only Social Network Dedicated to Future and Working Techs

August 24, 2022 – SCOTTSDALE, AZ – TechForce Foundation®, a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has launched its “Because I’m a Tech” campaign. Timed to align with Labor Day, the campaign celebrates skilled trades and promotes this career path. “Because I’m a Tech” shares technicians’ testimonials across industry sectors, from auto, diesel and collision repair to aviation, restoration, marine, welding and motorsports, highlighting the fulfilling lifestyles afforded by tech careers. Learn more at TechForce.org/Tech

Once the “Because I’m a Tech” campaign sparks a person’s interest they are encouraged to join TechForce, the first and only gamified social network for aspiring and working technicians. Designed by and for Gen Z, it connects them with a community of peers, employers and schools. The free platform fuels their interest and passion while supporting their career journey with everything from games/prizes, events, schools and scholarships to training, internships and jobs.

“As part of TechForce’s workforce development initiative to Power the Technician WorkforceTM, ‘Because I’m a Tech’ showcases the attractive lifestyle and secure economic potential of this profession. These careers are no longer ‘blue collar,’ but ‘new collar’, high tech and in high demand,” says TechForce CEO Jennifer Maher. “Thousands of technician students, working techs and educators are already taking full advantage of the fun and free resources available in the TechForce career network because it offers what they need to turbocharge their futures.”

Some of the companies participating in this campaign by showcasing technicians and their passion for this profession include Advance Auto Parts, AutoZone, CRC Industries, Ford Motor Company, Pennzoil, Penske Truck Leasing, and WD-40 Company, as well as TechForce Celebrity Ambassadors Bogi Lateiner, Julia Landauer and The Humble Mechanic.

More than 30% of the people active in TechForce are women which is a big deal when we consider that less than 3% of working techs are women. Participants earn points and prizes by accessing training, games, events and more. Students and educators from two schools NASCAR Tech and EVIT have already earned over a million points each.

This year alone TechForce participants have been hosted at major racing events and exclusive VIP experiences, been awarded hundreds of thousands of dollars in scholarships and grants and earned prizes including tools, training and gift cards from TechForce partners.

About TechForce Foundation

TechForce Foundation is a 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 $1.5 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, social network of students, working technicians, instructors, employers, industry professionals and enthusiasts committed to championing the technician workforce is the conduit through which the charity delivers its free resources, programs and career hub for the benefit of aspiring technicians. For more information, visit techforce.org. Follow us on TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Linkedin and YouTube.

Under The Hood Newsletter | July 2022

Under the Hood: New shortage report + Ambassador applications open!

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TechForce engagement opportunities this month

Read and share TechForce’s new special report Women Techs: Solving the Tech Shortage. Please also continue to help promote the career resources available on TechForce, as well as our Women Techs Rock video series. If you know a woman technician we should interview in the series let us know!

Now is the time to gather technicians’ stories to share during TechForce’s annual Because I’m a Tech campaign (8/22–9/10/22). Record technicians finishing the phrase “Because I’m a tech…” telling us something they achieved thanks to their career in transportation, and send the video to sgordon@techforce.org. Together we can inspire Gen Z to consider a rewarding hands-on career by showcasing what is possible! We also invite you to explore the Because I’m a Tech campaign resources available here>>

EVENTS

Don’t miss TechForce’s free summer events! Join our social network for tickets to behind-the-scenes VIP experiences, races, car shows and more. Get started>>

Free tickets to 8/4 Autobahn racing experience

Join us August 4th for hot laps, shop tours, and a chance to meet real racecar drivers and technicians at the Autobahn Country Club race track in Joliet, IL. Tickets are free but they’re going fast! Don’t miss our exclusive student experience, co-hosted with John Weinberger Driven to Care. Log in to get your free tickets>>

TechForce free VIP summer events so far… with more to come!

Students have gone to VIP events for free all summer thanks to TechForce. From Formula DRIFT, IndyCar and NASCAR races to our most recent Student Experience at Road America TechForce members are having the time of their lives at unforgettable events. Don’t miss out! Join for free and find your tickets>>

SCHOLARSHIPS – Apply now!

Students can pay for technician training expenses with help from TechForce! Our scholarships & grants pay for more than just tuition. Need help covering the cost of tools, books, transportation or even emergencies? See opportunities below:

Opportunity: TechForce Accelerate Tuition Scholarships
Deadline: July 31, 2022 | Award range: $1,000–$2,000
Learn more and apply>>

Opportunity: Life Happens Emergency Grants
Deadline: August 29, 2022 | Award range: $400–$1,200
Learn more and apply>>

Opportunity: Career & Technical Education Scholarship
Awarded by: Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation
Deadline: Rolling, Processed monthly | Award range: $1,500–$10,000
Learn more and apply>>

TECHFORCE NEWS

New TechForce report – Women Techs: Solving the Tech Shortage

Businesses in all sectors of the transportation industry urgently need more technicians, yet women — who comprise 52% of the population — only account for less than 3% of employed technicians. With the tech shortage crisis worsening each year, one solution seems obvious: Hire more women techs. But how? Download the report for answers>>

Informed by a year of interviews with women technicians, Women Techs: Solving the Tech Shortage lets their voices be heard. Learn from their insight and tips to recruit, retain and advance women techs in the workforce>>

Ford student Alejandro finds his path to success with TechForce

Alejandro received a Ford ASSET Accelerate Tuition Scholarship from TechForce, and is excited about becoming a technician! “Ever since I was a toddler I’ve always loved being around and working on cars… Being a well-trained automotive technician would allow me… to follow my dreams.” Read Alejandro’s full story>>

TechForce scholarships and grants help students pay for technician training expenses. Learn how TechForce Foundation can help cover the cost of tuition, tools, transportation and even emergencies at TechForce.org/Scholarships

Volunteer with us – Become a TechForce Ambassador!

Our TechForce Ambassador Program is now accepting applications. Join us in supporting future techs all across the US and Canada! We are currently seeking volunteers in Maryland and the Texas Gulf Coast. To volunteer with TechForce email Laylah Copertino, Volunteer Engagement Manager, at lcopertino@techforce.org>>

Women Techs are Inspiring a Generation – Share Your Story!

Calling all women techs! We need you to share your stories and inspire girls across the country to pursue their passions. Help TechForce show a new generation that there is a place for them in this industry. Share your story or the story of a woman tech you know at TechForce.org/WomenTechStories

Hemmings and Vice Grip Garage team up to support TechForce

Vice Grip Garage and Hemmings recently unveiled The Ultimate Road Trip in support of TechForce. Vice Grip Garage brought a 1978 Chevrolet C20 Camper Special back to life and drove it across the US on Historic Route 66. Now the truck is up for auction through August 4th on Hemmings, with proceeds to go to TechForce! Learn more and join in on the fun>>

Donate to help students like the younger you

Can you relate to the ‘younger you’, a student who is wired for success in a technical career but challenged by the lack of resources and support? Help TechForce be there for the younger you when they need it, to get to and through their technical training and into rewarding careers. Donate to support tech students>>

TechForce students attend VIP experience at Road America

Students in TechForce’s social network were treated to a VIP experience at the Road America racing track including hot laps, behind-the-scenes tours and Q&As with racing professionals. A big thank you to co-host John Weinberger Driven to Care and all of the guest speakers who volunteered to make the event a success! Hear from the students who attended and find your own event tickets in TechForce>>

TechForce continues to grow – Join our team!

TechForce welcomed two new staff members to our team this month! We are excited to introduce Amanda Garcia (left) and Michelle Abril (right) as TechForce’s National Partnership Coordinator and Development Manager, respectively. Meet our entire team on the new TechForce.org.

If you would like to work with TechForce, check our open positions>>

A photo of scholarship recipient Alejandro. Alejandro is wearing a blue technician work shirt, and is sitting on the hood of a red Mazda coupe.

July 27, 2022December 8, 2022

Student Spotlight: Alejandro pursues dream with Ford ASSET Accelerate Tuition Scholarship

Alejando Finds his Path to Success with a TechForce Scholarship

About TechForce scholarships

Alejandro received a Ford ASSET Accelerate Tuition Scholarship from TechForce Foundation. TechForce scholarships and grants help students pay for their technician training expenses. Learn how TechForce Foundation can help you cover the cost of tuition, tools, books, transportation and even emergencies at TechForce.org/Scholarships

A bright future as a technician

Alejandro is excited about becoming an automotive tech!

“I would like to tell you why the right path to success for me is being an automotive technician. Ever since I was a toddler I’ve always loved being around and working on cars. Throughout the years my passion for automobiles has grown even more profoundly. Before enrolling into a technical college and joining the Ford ASSET program, my skills, knowledge, and understanding of how a vehicle works were dismal.”

Trial and error

Although I haven’t had much experience with cars, that didn’t stop me from attempting to do my own oil change, and I quickly learned why choosing the right tool for the job is important. That’s why I decided to join the Ford ASSET program. To me, a technician is somebody who follows the specifications in shop manuals such as torquing the bolts to the right specification and not just ‘good and tight’. I want to learn the proper way to not only diagnose, but to be able to perform repairs that are up to the standards of a major automotive manufacturer.

After just two quarters in school I have greatly improved my confidence in working on a vehicle but also my knowledge and hand skills. I am dedicated to graduating from technical school and becoming a technician. I have seen what a well-trained technician can do on a race track, when it comes to safety and making sure that a car can consistently perform. There are no cutting corners!”

Driven by passion and purpose

Alejandro’s passion for automotive fills his free time. If he is not in school, he’s at work trying to get as many hours and experience as he can. Alejandro says, “My parents aren’t able to financially support me in my pursuit of a better career. I’ve paid out of my own pocket for tuition. I have been able to stay on top of my grades and maintain focus on my education.”

Alejandro's goals are closer with TechForce scholarships

Alejandro’s dream is to one day open up his own shop. He says, “I want to be able to run a business but also not just be a manager/owner that doesn’t know how to repair or diagnose a vehicle. Being a well-trained automotive technician would allow me to have the necessary skill set to work and to follow my dreams.”

Alejandro is paying for his own education and is only able to work 20 hours a week due to his school schedule. A Ford ASSET Accelerate Tuition Scholarship provides financial assistance so that Alejandro can continue his education and pursue his dream career in automotive.

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June 29, 2022June 29, 2022

Women Techs – Solving the Tech Shortage

TechForce Foundation Details Solutions to Address
Transportation Industry’s Technician Problem

SCOTTSDALE, AZ – June 29, 2022 – TechForce Foundation, the only nonprofit 501(c)(3) committed exclusively to career exploration and workforce development for technician professionals across all transportation industry sectors, today released a critical new whitepaper addressing the role that women techs can play in solving the ongoing technician workforce shortage.

Women Techs: Solving the Tech Shortage Problem goes into detail on how the automotive, aviation, diesel, collision, motorsports and other transportation industry sectors can recruit and retain women technicians and offer professional growth opportunities throughout every phase of their careers. TechForce Foundation interviewed women technicians across multiple sectors from the United States, Canada, Australia, and the UK. The interview group spanned every career stage, ranging in age from 19 years old to 60.

“Women make up more than half the population but account for less than 3% of the technician workforce,” said Jennifer Maher, CEO of TechForce Foundation. “The women techs we spoke to are thriving, and with demand for qualified technicians across the service and maintenance sector greatly outpacing supply, there is a huge opportunity for the industry to recruit women into these important ‘new collar,’ STEM careers.”

“Today’s technician role has transformed to meet the increasing complexity and advancements in automotive technology and with that the need for qualified and diverse talent is great,” said John Roth, GM global vice president, Customer Care and Aftersales. “At GM, we are committed to being the most inclusive company in the world. We invest everyday in a culture that allows everyone to bring their whole self to work which includes steps to support and attract more women to consider the skilled trades as an attractive career option.”

In addition to collecting and sharing the real-world experience and insights of women techs today, TechForce articulates key steps that employers can take to enhance their ongoing recruitment, retention, and growth strategies.

“It’s clear that women seeking technician careers will play a vital part in the service and maintenance industry, where the need for talent at all levels is enormous,” said Dana Rapoport, TechForce’s Chief Consultant, DE&I. “We hope employers take full advantage of this opportunity, and implement the findings in this whitepaper to welcome this growing pool of diverse, skilled workers eager to contribute to the technician workforce.”

Women Techs: Solving the Tech Shortage Problem can be downloaded here: TechForce.org/WIT.

About TechForce Foundation

TechForce Foundation is a 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 $1.5 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, social network of students, working technicians, instructors, employers, industry professionals and enthusiasts committed to championing the technician workforce is the conduit through which the charity delivers its free resources, programs and career hub 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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June 21, 2022June 21, 2022

Under The Hood Newsletter | June 2022

Under the Hood: Your summer events + Webinar TODAY

Event_Women Shifting Gears podcast_Jen photo 002

TODAY: Jennifer Maher live on Women Shifting Gears Podcast

Catch TechForce CEO Jennifer Maher on the Women Shifting Gears podcast today June 14th at 7 PM ET/ 4 PM PT. Don’t miss out on this free event! Register now to save your seat>>

TechForce students met the pros at Formula Drift

Students from TechForce’s social network got free tickets and a behind-the-scenes tour of the Formula DRIFT race in New Jersey this weekend, thanks to Ford and Throdle. Don’t miss another event – find your tickets today>>

TechForce scholarship helps student pursue his dream career

Steven has always loved cars. His dream is “to become the best automotive technician I can be,” and he is one step closer to achieving it thanks to a “Pedal to the Metal MSAT” Relocation Award from TechForce. These awards help cover necessary moving costs when students continue on to Manufacturer-Specific Advanced Training.

Steven looks forward to expanding his knowledge about transportation technology and launching his tech career. Learn how TechForce scholarships and grants can help you>>

All of TechForce together in one place

We have made it even easier to access everything TechForce has to offer. You can now find all things TechForce – our social network, scholarships, industry resources and more – in one place at TechForce.org. Turbocharge your technician career with TechForce>>

Lyft and TechForce join forces to help students get to class

TechForce and Lyft have partnered to provide free rides to students in need who otherwise don’t have a way to get to school due to unforeseen circumstances. TechForce is also exploring a pilot program with Lyft to offer free car repairs to students with a demonstrated need. The repair program is expected to launch in the coming months. See our full list of partners here>>

CTE Instructors on why educators like using TechForce

Hear from instructors Fanny Perez Michaud and Sal Cappiello on why they like using TechForce’s Career Network in their classrooms, and why you should, too! There is no cost to join TechForce or to access the free training materials, trivia, scholarships, industry events and other resources offered. Join TechForce now>>

#WomenTechsRock Hear aviation technician Angel Green’s advice

Whether an airplane carries people or packages technicians like Angel Green keep them moving. Angel worked her way up from student to aviation technician and is now a Quality Control Supervisor at UPS Airlines. Hear her advice for setting boundaries and succeeding as a woman in a male-dominated space in our most recent #WomenTechsRock interview>>

Help us inspire the next generation of women technicians. Tell us who we should interview at TechForce.org/WomenTechStories

TechForce is growing – Join our team!

TechForce is growing. We recently welcomed Laylah Copertino as TechForce’s Volunteer Engagement Manager and our newest team member. Meet the entire TechForce team on our website.

If you would like to join our team, check here for open positions with TechForce>>

June 21, 2022June 21, 2022

Under The Hood Newsletter | May 2022

EVENTS

Looking for summer plans? We’ve got you covered. Attend races, car shows, school tours and more! Join TechForce’s free Social Network for tickets to upcoming events. Get started here>>

TECHFORCE NEWS

Stay up to date with news and other updates from TechForce Foundation below.

FTR-Category-Winner-Welding-Jacob-Gunther-220429

Announcing the 2022 FutureTechs Rock Awards Grand Prize Winner

Congratulations to Jacob Gunther of Naperville, IL, the 2022 FutureTechs Rock Awards Grand Prize Winner! Jacob will receive an additional $1,000 TechForce scholarship and $3,000 in prizes from our partners to support his technical education. Thank you to everyone who voted! Meet the full slate of student winners and learn more about the Awards at TechForce.org/Winners

#WomenTechsRock – TechForce’s Dana Rapoport joins Femcanic Garage Podcast for a special episode

Listen to a special episode of the Femcanic Garage Podcast featuring TechForce’s Dana Rapoport. Dana discusses what she has learned so far in interviews with dozens of women technicians, including that, “The biggest decider for a woman’s success as a transportation technician is their employer’s commitment to a supportive workplace.”

Help us inspire more technicians. If you know a woman tech Dana should interview, tell us at TechForce.org/WomenTechStories

Student Awarded $10,000 Terry Emig Hero Spirit Award

Congratulations to Jeramie, recipient of TechForce Foundation’s Terry Emig Hero Spirit Award! The Award includes tuition and direct assistance totaling $10,000. As a single parent, Jeramie is grateful for the generous financial support will help him pursue his dream career as a transportation technician. Apply for a scholarship of your own through TechForce’s Social Network>>

Sunstate Equipment donates $25,000

Sunstate Equipment hosted Jennifer Maher and Lisa Evans of TechForce Foundation for a tour of its training facility. During the tour Sunstate VP Larry Cox presented TechForce with a $25,000 donation. Thank you, Sunstate Equipment, for being a long-time TechForce Champion! Pictured are Maher, Evans, Cox and students in Sunstate’s Apprenticeship Program.

SVRA, AUVSI join TechForce workforce development campaign

TechForce Foundation welcomes Sportscar Vintage Racing Association (SVRA) and Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) as the newest partners in our industry-wide workforce development campaign. SVRA‘s insight will help TechForce further support technicians in the restoration space.

AUVSI will introduce the exciting world of automated vehicles to the campaign. TechForce staff recently spoke at AUVSI’s national conference. We look forward to working with both organizations to support the workforce of future technicians. See our full list of partners here>>

Resources for early career technicians from MotorAge

Are you new to the industry? Here are some tips to help you propel your career>> and reach that “A” tech level from TechForce partner MotorAge. Motor Age Magazine and Professional Tool & Equipment News Magazine have also launched the second annual Best Young Tech Award program to recognize the younger generation of working technicians making a difference in the industry. Are you that tech, or do you know one? Nominate them today>>

Have you joined the TechForce Network?

Take advantage of everything the TechForce Social Network has to offer. Log in to your free account to access training, job postings, contests, events, scholarships, and more! If you haven’t joined TechForce, what are you waiting for? Create your profile for free today>>

Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Prize for Teaching Excellence

Don’t let an outstanding teacher miss their chance at the 2022 Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Prize for Teaching Excellence! Our friends at Harbor Freight Tools for Schools are awarding $1.25 Million to 20 skilled trades teachers and programs in U.S. public high schools. The deadline is May 20. Apply today>>

Donate your car, RV or boat to TechForce (It’s tax-deductible and easy!)

Donate your car, RV or boat to TechForce. Our partner, CarDonationWizard, handles all steps, makes it easy for you, and turns your tax-deductible donation into dollars that support our mission. Learn more and donate your vehicle today>>

2022 FutureTechs Rock Awards Grand Prize Winner | TechForce

May 10, 2022December 8, 2022

TechForce Foundation® Announces 2022 FutureTechs Rock Awards™ Grand Prize Winner

Twins go head to head for national award, one wins Grand Prize

May 10, 2022 – SCOTTSDALE, AZ — TechForce Foundation® announces Jacob Gunther of Naperville, Illinois as the 2022 FutureTechs Rock Awards Grand Prize Winner. TechForce created this prestigious award to honor aspiring technicians and recognize those students with a promising future in the transportation industry. Meet the full slate of honorees, including the Category and Grand Prize Winners, at TechForce.org/Winners

“I love welding because it makes me feel happy and relaxed,” says Jacob. “I have a sense of freedom and happiness… [I] am inspired to be a welder because I love making my own products and fabricating [car] parts… and teaching new people how to do what I love. My career goal is to get welding certified and own my business after high school.”

Thousands of TechForce followers weighed in to select Jacob as the Grand Prize Winner from among ten Category Winners, including his twin brother Joshua, in the May 2-6, 2022 People’s Choice public vote. Jacob is the Welding & CNC Category Winner and Joshua won the Motorsports (Pit Crew & Racing) category. See their interview here.

Jacob credits Joshua and his family with sparking his passion for welding, “My family has a project [car]… a ’67 [Chevrolet] Camero that we have been slowly working on. That’s where it all started… building that together as a family.”

As the Grand Prize Winner Jacob will receive over $4,000 in scholarships and prizes from TechForce and our industry partners. Each of the ten Category Winners received $1,800 in prizes. Prize sponsors include Advance Auto Parts, AutoZone, Caliber Collision, Cengage Learning, CRC Industries, Ford Motor Company, Snap-on Industrial and WD-40 Company.

Category Winners were selected by a panel of industry expert judges from a pool of nearly 370 nominations, representing 95 schools across 33 states. 20% of the Category Winners were women, a significant proportion considering only 3% of professional technicians are women.

The 2022 Category Winners represented six states and nine schools and were equally split across high school and post-secondary programs. They each represented a distinct technical education discipline, and included:

Automotive – Trishana Sadloo, New York Automotive and Diesel Institute, Jamaica, NY
Aviation – Chozon Gilbert, MIAT College of Technology, Canton, MI
Collision Repair – Andres Arellano, Wenatchee Valley Technical Skills Center, Wenatchee, WA
Diesel Off-Road – Joshua Finell, Universal Technical Institute, Avondale, AZ
Diesel On-Road – Riley Larr, Wexford Missaukee Career Tech Center, Cadillac, MI
Marine and Watercraft – Durham Egger, Marine Mechanics Institute, Orlando, FL
Motorcycle and ATV – Ashton Chatham, Motorcycle Mechanics Institute, Phoenix, AZ
Motorsports (Pit Crew/ Racing) – Joshua Gunther, Naperville North High School, Naperville, IL
Restoration – Jacob Edwards, Oneida-Herkimer-Madison BOCES, New Hartford, NY
Welding and CNC – Jacob Gunther, Naperville North High School, Naperville, IL

The FutureTechs Rock Awards are part of TechForce Foundation’s workforce development initiative to help inspire and support tomorrow’s workforce of technicians. TechForce has also created the first and only social network designed and gamified for professional technicians and tech students to connect with each other, employers and schools (JoinTechForce.org). The transportation community is supporting it with content and using it to learn, connect, find events, and explore job opportunities while competing for prizes and leaderboard status. More students, working techs and educators joined the TechForce Social Network during the Grand Prize public vote (May 2-6, 2022) than at any other time.

About TechForce Foundation

TechForce Foundation is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) with the mission to champion all 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 spearheads an industry-wide workforce development initiative to help encourage and support more young people to pursue the vehicle technician profession. This includes a network of students, working technicians, instructors, employers, industry professionals and enthusiasts committed to championing the technician workforce. For more information, visit www.TechForce.org. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok and Linkedin.

Links

Winner photos: https://adobe.ly/37uIZL6
Awards logo: https://adobe.ly/3KzPEBc
Winner profile webpage: TechForce.org/Winners
Awards homepage: TechForce.org/FutureTechsRock

March 23, 2022June 30, 2022

Rising Technicians, a Tip for Success: Keep Learning

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates the United States needs at least
120,000 new transportation technicians each year just to meet demand.

The automotive aftermarket is a $277B industry, growing since 2010 and predicted to continue. It’s fueled by consumers keeping their vehicles longer, putting more miles on them and needing more help when it comes to servicing them.

According to a recent IMR CCAMS study, only 53 percent of consumers answered that they had a repair done by a service professional within the last 12 months in 2008. In 2017, that number was up to 62 percent. This decrease in “Do It Yourself” behavior along with consumers generally keeping their vehicles longer than in years past, is keeping repair bays busy.

But aside from the usual demand for their services, there are some barriers to technicians’ ability to give their best service.

“Think about how you change a battery, something that used to be considered a simple job. Many that run in newer models aren’t even located under the hood. The list of what we at Interstate classify as “difficult to install” batteries grows each year as manufacturers move them to harder-to-reach spots to make room for performance-boosting gear.”

The first barrier to success: the entire automotive aftermarket industry is experiencing a shortage of technicians. At the same time, the number of cars per auto repair bay has grown from 167 to 228 since the year 2000, and that trend is projected to increase. So, the growing demand for service – combined with retiring technicians and people choosing to leave the industry – has created a “perfect storm” for a shortage.

With a deficit of qualified technicians, those currently working in the industry are crunched for time to handle the volume. In our 2017 World of Automotive Repair study, technicians listed time pressure as their No. 1 frustration. They feel rushed in their work, naturally leading to less attention to detail, poor communication and a less-than-satisfying customer experience.

“Technicians listed time
pressure as their No. 1 frustration”

The second barrier to success has a chance to become an opportunity to solve both problems. Technology plays an ever-growing role in how vehicles operate today, and requires more training from technicians than ever before. The technological, electrical, digital and problem-solving skills now required of technicians can appear to be obstacles to building manpower.

But that can be overcome: with training, development and continuing education to keep up with the industry’s exponential rate of change. Those investments can bring in new technician candidates and keep current technicians around longer, with the entire staff more qualified and satisfied in their jobs.

“The number of cars per auto repair bay has
grown from 167 to 228 since the year 2000”

Think about how you change a battery, something that used to be considered a simple job. Many that run in newer models aren’t even located under the hood. The list of what we at Interstate classify as “difficult to install” batteries grows each year as manufacturers move them to harder-to-reach spots to make room for performance-boosting gear.

Lucky for us, the “Do It For Me” mentality is not going away. As vehicles continue to grow more complex, the stronger the demand will be for quality technicians. With that said, it’ll be important as an industry that we share our knowledge — OEMs sharing important repair procedures, codes, etc., with aftermarket shops, and aftermarket shops sharing what works and doesn’t work with the manufacturers. This free flow of information will allow the industry to find the most efficient way to serve our customers and ease the time pressure technicians feel.

If I could give some advice to the current and future generation of technicians, I’d tell them:

1) Keep learning: Technologies are changing at an exponential speed. There’s no time to fall behind.

2) Stay current: Subscribe to blogs and publications to keep a pulse on the industry.

3) Market your shop: To stay competitive, shops have to promote themselves to the industry and consumers. If you don’t know how, partner with somebody who does, so you can compete with the national chains who have a lot of marketing power.

4) Use the shortage to your advantage: Be selective where you choose to work. Look for shops and dealers who promote learning, provide training and are great marketers. That’s where I’d want to work!

5) Put yourself in your customers’ shoes: The last thing anyone in our industry wants to do is make customers feel uncomfortable or think they’re being sold something they don’t need. It’s the little things that reinforce your customers’ trust.

Every industry has highs and lows. We can look at the technician shortage as a low, or see it as a chance to grow our skills to serve our customers better and welcome new and eager talent.