TechForce Foundation and Mecum Auctions Partner to Open Nominations for 6th Annual Techs Rock Awards

TechForce Foundation and Mecum Auctions Partner to Open Nominations for 6th Annual Techs Rock Awards

6th Annual TechForce Awards to honor students AND technicians for the first time

November 21, 2023 — PHOENIX — TechForce Foundation, a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to championing the technician workforce, has joined forces with Mecum Auctions to announce the opening of nominations for the highly anticipated 6th Annual Techs Rock Awards. This year, the Awards will honor both working and aspiring student technicians, marking a significant milestone in the program’s history. Nominations are now being accepted until January 14, 2024, at TechForce.org/TechsRock.

The Techs Rock Awards will recognize outstanding students and professional technicians in five categories: Automotive & Motorsports; Diesel; Collision, Restoration & Welding; Aviation, Motorcycle & Marine; and Evolving Technologies.

Category Winners will go on to compete in a public vote, with the one student and one professional tech Grand Prize Winners to each receive a trip to Glendale, Arizona to enjoy Mecum Auction Glendale and meet and be honored by industry leaders at TechForce’s National Partner Summit.

Mecum Auctions, a first-time partner of the Techs Rock Awards, is “thrilled to be part of this initiative during a time when there is a growing public interest in high-tech, hands-on technical careers,” says David Magers, CEO of Mecum Auctions.

TechForce established the Techs Rock Awards to honor the dedication and passion for the profession demonstrated by aspiring and working technicians. These individuals serve as true role models, inspiring the next generation of tech enthusiasts.

“The Techs Rock Awards are special because they celebrate those committed to keeping America rolling. We need skilled technicians so that our cars start, airplanes fly and trucks move,” said Jennifer Maher, CEO of TechForce Foundation. “After 5 years of honoring students and technicians separately, the 6th Annual Techs Rock Awards are the greatest opportunity yet for the industry to recognize their workforce of today and tomorrow.”

Since its inception in 2018, the Techs Rock Awards have recognized 75 technicians and technician students, providing over $131,000 in scholarships and prizes. This program has been instrumental in promoting the importance of technical education and highlighting the immense value that skilled technicians bring to our world.

“Your nomination matters,” continues Maher. “By submitting a nomination your institution demonstrates a dedication to your industry’s excellence and growth, elevates your brand to align with excellence and innovation, and helps foster a culture of appreciation and motivation within your institution and industry.”

Nominations for the 6th Annual Techs Rock Awards are now open until January 14, 2024. Eligible nominees include professional transportation technicians and technical students studying or working in any of the award categories. To learn more about the nomination process and to submit a nomination for yourself or someone you know, please visit TechForce.org/TechsRock.

About Mecum Auctions
Nobody sells more than Mecum. Nobody. Mecum Auctions is the world leader of collector car, vintage and antique motorcycle, and Road Art sales, hosting auctions throughout the United States. The company has specialized in the sale of collector cars for more than 35 years, now offering more than 20,000 lots per year and averaging more than one auction each month. Established by President Dana Mecum in 1988, Mecum Auctions remains a family-run company headquartered in Walworth, Wisconsin. For further information, visit Mecum.com or call (262) 275-5050.

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 $2.3 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 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.

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NAPA Issues Call for the Next Generation of Technicians During National Apprenticeship Week

NAPA Issues Call for the Next Generation of Technicians During National Apprenticeship Week

Joining with TechForce Foundation for its “Grab the Wheel” campaign, the aftermarket leader is launching The NAPA Success for Techs Scholarship fund to shine a light on exciting technician career paths

November 13, 2023 — ATLANTA — It’s National Apprenticeship Week, and NAPA, through the NAPA Network, is reaching out to the next generation of technicians and making it easier than ever to see themselves in a rewarding career through the “Grab the Wheel” campaign. This effort between NAPA and the TechForce Foundation contributes to a collective goal of hiring one million new automotive and aviation technicians in the next five years.

From November 13 – 30, interested applicants can apply for one of five The NAPA Success for Techs Scholarships. Recipients will be awarded this fall with a tool kit and financial contribution to jumpstart their technician career. The application and requirements to submit can be accessed at TechForce.org/Scholarships.

“There is so much more to being a technician than people realize,” said Jason Rainey, vice president of NAPA Auto Care. “As a technician, there is a clear career ladder in the auto industry and potential to work in other modes of transportation, such as motor sports, aviation and aeronautics. And with the growth of EV, they are on the cutting edge of technology. The NAPA Network seeks to not only show them the possibilities available to them but also provide them with the resources they need to land the career of their dreams.”

To illustrate the exciting careers that come with a technician education, throughout National Apprenticeship Week, NAPA and TechForce Foundation will highlight unique stories within the technician sector through the “Grab the Wheel” campaign, including:

  • Jeff Gordon: the NASCAR Hall of Famer knows all too well the importance of surrounding a driver with the best technicians and pit crew to win championships. Now, as vice chairman of Hendrick Motorsports, Gordon brings decades of racing experience to his role, ensuring the NASCAR world continues to advocate for and support technicians in their pursuit of a career in the sport.
  • Chad Knaus: as the former crew chief for Jimmie Johnson, Knaus is the only crew chief in NASCAR history to have earned five consecutive Cup Series championships. He understands the importance of technician education to keep NASCAR’s stars safely on the track intimately, carrying that passion through in his current role at Hendrick Motorsports. He has worked in NASCAR since 1991.
  • Erica Smith: Erica was awarded a NAPA toolkit through its Women in Auto Care Scholarship collaboration to continue her career as an automotive technician. Erica was introduced to “backyard mechanics” at a young age, fixing friends’ old cars and lawn equipment. She founded John’s Lawn Service – named for her late father – to combat hesitance from prospective customers in hiring a woman. Today as a mom of two, she’s successfully working in Bakersfield, CA as a technician in an industry that began as a hobby. 

“Even though the drivers are the only people behind the wheel, make no mistake – racing is a team sport, and the technicians and pit crew play a crucial role,” said Jeff Gordon, vice chairman of Hendrick Motorsports. “There are many rewarding paths technicians can pursue – including the racetrack – so I’m thrilled to support NAPA and TechForce’s efforts to revitalize this career track.”

As America’s largest network of parts and care – and the sponsor of NAPA Racing – NAPA’s partnership with TechForce and its The NAPA Success for Techs Scholarship opportunity are just a few of the ways the NAPA Network is making it easier to learn more about the technician trade and take steps toward a career in the field.

NAPA’s efforts also include the existing NAPA Auto Care Apprenticeship Program, giving aspiring technicians a path to in-demand positions in the automotive industry alongside mentors to complete their ASE certifications over the course of 18 to 24 months. Most recently, through its continued partnership with Women in Auto Care, 20 toolkits valued at $9,000 each were awarded to female students across the U.S. who are interested in a career in the auto care industry. NAPA also has a strategic alliance with Universal Technical Institute (UTI), supporting the future of those seeking careers in the transportation and aftermarket auto repair industries.

To learn more from NAPA about turning your love for cars into a rewarding career, visit https://techforce.org/thats-not-you/

Learn about ways you can support TechForce Foundation by visiting https://techforce.org/ways-to-help/.

About NAPA
Through nearly 6,000 auto parts stores and over 18,000 auto care and collision centers in the U.S., NAPA has America’s largest network of parts and care. The NAPA Network is supported by nationwide distribution centers with more than 725,000 available parts, accessories and supplies. Widely recognized for quality parts, rapid availability and knowledgeable people, NAPA Auto Parts stores serve automotive service professionals, do-it-yourselfers and everyday drivers with quality parts, accessories and supplies to keep cars, trucks and equipment performing safely and efficiently. For more information, visit www.napaonline.com.

About TechForce Foundation
TechForce Foundation is a national nonprofit, 501(c)(3) with the mission to champion all students to and through their education and into careers as professional technicians. TechForce powers the technician workforce by awarding more than $2.3 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 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 TikTokFacebookInstagramTwitterLinkedin and YouTube.

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Industry Embraces TechForce Foundation Amid Surge in Public Support for Hands-On Technician Careers

Industry Embraces TechForce Foundation Amid Surge In Public Support For Hands-On Technician Careers

October 30, 2023 — PHOENIX — TechForce Foundation, a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to championing the technician workforce, has seen a significant uptick in public support for high-tech, hands-on mobility technician careers. Forward-thinking businesses are seizing on this opportunity and partnering with TechForce to supercharge the pipeline of future technicians.

“For 15 years, championing technician careers was an uphill battle. The public shied away from hands-on careers in favor of the college-for-all mentality and the industry complained, but did little to fix it. There is still much work to be done, but we’re seeing a shift,” reports Jennifer Maher, Executive Director of TechForce Foundation. “Everyone from parents to teachers and students themselves have opened their eyes to the life and career opportunities available to technicians, and TechForce has been a large part of that shift.”

This year, TechForce Foundation will award over $2.3 Million in scholarships and grants to support this growing interest, with nearly $1,000,000 already awarded to students in the first half of 2023. A huge lift came this year when Ford Motor Company Fund and Ford Dealers across the regions of Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas and Phoenix donated $1.1 million to support students pursuing their technical education in auto and diesel. “A grant of that magnitude is a real boost and vote of confidence in the work we’re doing,” says Maher.

“The phones are ringing,” says Angie Babin, Chair of the TechForce Foundation Board of Directors, “as more companies and foundations embrace our charitable mission.”

Companies have joined or increased their direct support for TechForce by hundreds of thousands of dollars in 2023, including enhanced partnerships with AutoZone, BASF, Bridgestone Americas, CarMax, Ford Motor Company, General Motors, LKQ, NAPA, and Snap-on Industrial. Additionally, the nonprofit trade association CAWA – Representing the Automotive Parts Industry – named TechForce as one of its charities of choice, pledging to engage its members across California, Nevada and Arizona as donors and volunteers.

“Each one of these companies has either significantly increased its commitment to TechForce Foundation this year, or entered into a new partnership to support our mission. The momentum and growth shows us that the pendulum is swinging,” says Babin. “Society is realizing we need a skilled workforce, and that employers and brands that rely on techs need to take action and invest in solutions like TechForce. We’re thrilled to see this uptick in energy.”

TechForce Foundation has invested heavily in building a first-of-its-kind online community, TechForce™, where tech students, working techs, instructors, brands and employers can connect. TechForce™ ensures aspiring technicians can find all the free resources to successfully navigate their technical education and job placement pathway. It’s absolutely free to join at techforce.org, where students can find tech schools, scholarships, apprenticeships and jobs and also tap free tickets to events, watch online training, participate in trivia and contests, and more. More than 27,000 users have joined TechForce™ since launch, accessing all that it has to offer for free, thanks to support from its individual, business and foundation donors.

TechForce continues to innovate, launching its Grab the Wheel campaign this past August to inspire the next generation of technicians. The ambitious campaign seeks to welcome one million new entry-level technicians over the next five years to meet a pressing workforce demand. The organization is also partnering with the industry to recognize the technicians and students who are shaping its future, with the largest Techs Rock Awards to date.

TechForce is supported by charitable contributions from the automotive, collision and diesel sectors, including OEMs, aftermarket, retailers, private shops, national MSOs and the rental sector, as well as other sectors, including aviation, CNC machining, marine, motorcycle, motorsports and welding.

Small businesses under $10M annual revenue can partner with TechForce Foundation for just $89 a month, including the right to post jobs and apprenticeships in TechForce™. Small brands can opt-in to a Professional Membership at just $499 a year. Named scholarship funds can be opened for as little as $10,000 and the organization has a team dedicated to crafting win/win strategic alliances with larger companies.

Donate at techforce.org or learn about more ways to support TechForce Foundation by visiting https://techforce.org/ways-to-help/.

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 $2.3 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 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 TikTokFacebookInstagramTwitterLinkedin and YouTube.

 

Links:

  • TechForce Foundation logo: https://adobe.ly/3Diapjw
  • TechForce™ network: https://techforce.org/
  • Get involved with TechForce: https://techforce.org/ways-to-help/

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CAWA and TechForce Foundation Strike a New Collaboration for the Betterment of the Auto Care Industry

CAWA and TechForce Foundation Strike a New Collaboration for the Betterment of the Auto Care Industry

Sacramento, CA and Phoenix, AZ – October 24, 2023 – CAWA and TechForce Foundation have formed a new strategic alliance to address the growth and support of America’s skilled technician workforce. The two not-for-profit organizations will collaborate and share resources to promote the technician profession with young people, connect industry volunteers with future techs and tech school programs, and spotlight the importance of respecting techs who keep America rolling.

“Our country needs skilled, qualified automotive technicians to keep our lives moving. Students who love problem-solving and working with their hands are longing to find an education and career that fits. For many, a 4-year university isn’t the path they want or need. Instead, they’d be most excited by a technical career,” shares Jennifer Maher, CEO of TechForce Foundation. “These days the auto tech profession offers a solid middle-class wage, the opportunity to live and work anywhere, and involvement in the fast-evolving, technology-rising mobility industry. Students are unaware of all their options and don’t always know how to navigate the career exploration pipeline. By forming this collaboration, CAWA and TechForce have combined the conduits through which we can reach, support, and connect aspiring tech students to their futures.”

Representing the Automotive Parts Industry, Rodney Pierini the President & CEO of CAWA adds, “The Board of Directors unanimously supported this new collaboration with TechForce, and we are excited to contribute to promoting and growing the technician workforce as another contribution of the Association to the improvement of the auto care industry”.

The principles of the collaboration are:

  • CAWA’s website will promote and support the technician workforce.
  • CAWA will invite its members to become “TechForce Champions” whereby they will provide financial support to the charitable mission of TechForce Foundation.
  • CAWA will ask its members to become “TechForce Ambassadors”, volunteering to speak in various venues regarding the need for a robust technician workforce.
  • CAWA will encourage its members to nominate technicians to TechForce to share their positive stories to inspire young people and their influencers , e.g., parents school counselors, etc., regarding careers as technicians.
  • CAWA members will have access to TechForce’s resource center to assist them in promoting technician careers.
  • CAWA will assist TechForce (and vice-versa) in building relationships with tech high schools and post-secondary programs.

Plans are now underway to implement the principles of this new collaboration. For more information, contact programs@cawa.org or info@techforce.org.

About CAWA:
CAWA is an automotive aftermarket trade association, which represents auto parts jobbers, retailers, warehouse distributors, manufacturers, manufacturer representatives and program groups. The Association provides educational, legislative and business support to the industry and its membership. It is one of the largest trade associations of its kind in the United States and recognized as a leader in the automotive aftermarket industry. For more information, visit www.cawa.org.

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 $2.3 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 TikTokFacebookInstagramTwitter and Linkedin.

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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

  • The integration of complementary missions and overall cost efficiencies promise more value to the constituents served by both organizations

  • 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

 


 

Haynes North America Joins Futuretech Success® Campaign

 

The logo of TechForce Foundation

 

 

 

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

HAYNES NORTH AMERICA JOINS FUTURETECH SUCCESS® CAMPAIGN

Worldwide Leader in Vehicle Repair and Maintenance Manuals Announces Support for

Industry-Wide Effort to Fuel the Next Generation of Mobility Technicians

 

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — April 10, 2019 — Haynes North America, Inc. has committed $50,000 in in-kind support of TechForce Foundation’s FutureTech Success campaign. With this commitment, Haynes has reaffirmed its support for the transportation technicians who keep America rolling, and hope to continue growing the technician career pipeline to meet the nation’s ever-increasing need for professional technicians.

 

Developed by leading educational nonprofit 501(c)(3) TechForce Foundation, the FutureTech Success campaign is an industry-wide initiative 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.

 

“We are very excited to partner with TechForce on this important initiative. With our print and online manuals, as well as our new professional offering AllAccess, we hope to empower and motivate students to jump into an automotive career and continue to work with their hands,” said Reed Trueblood, Director of Marketing at Haynes North America, Inc. “Every manual is written from hands-on experience gained from a complete teardown and rebuild, which is the step-by-step procedure of dismantling and rebuilding a vehicle part-by-part. We hope to use these manuals to educate and spark the interest of future technicians.”

 

This partnership will help expand the FutureTech Success campaign’s efforts to provide resources and educational materials for aspiring technicians, their parents and educators alike. As the leader in automotive equipment repair, maintenance, and customization manuals, Haynes’s support for the campaign will be a catalyst for TechForce Foundation’s efforts to grow the industry’s talent pipeline by appealing to and reaching future technicians.

 

“Partnering with a company like Haynes gives students a unique perspective that narrows the focus on the hands-on aspect of the automotive trade,” said Jennifer Maher, CEO and Executive Director of TechForce Foundation. “We are excited to collaborate with Haynes to reframe the stigmas and motivate students to take their tinkering a little further into a career in the transportation industry.”

 

About Haynes North America, Inc.
Haynes, the world-leading publisher of automotive, motorcycle, marine and tractor repair content, is renowned for teaching millions of owners how to carry out routine maintenance and repairs. For almost 60 years, Haynes has been dismantling vehicles–and putting them back together again. Only in this unique ‘hands on’ way can Haynes provide authoritative and step-by-step information on both basic and complex tasks through print and online products.www.haynes.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.

 

CarMax Contact:
Reed Trueblood, click to email, 805-262-3354 or 805-794-4776

TechForce Foundation Contact:
Jennifer Maher, click to email, 623-445-0933 or 602-550-0371

 

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FORD, FUTURETECH SUCCESS CAMPAIGN SEEK TO HIGHLIGHT AUTOMOTIVE CAREERS

The logo of Ford Motor Company, a partner in TechForce Foundation's FutureTech Success campaign

 

 

 

 

Scottsdale, Ariz. — December 5, 2018 — Ford Motor Company is continuing to work with the TechForce Foundation to inspire tomorrow’s workforce of automotive technicians through a new FutureTech Success® campaign. This initiative will send the message to current and future techs that Ford respects, appreciates and champions trained technicians.

TechForce Foundation, a nonprofit 501(c)(3), has a mission to champion students to and through their education and into careers as professional technicians. The FutureTech Success campaign was developed to ignite the passion and sense of purpose in students who love working with their hands. The campaign works to reposition the image of the technical profession as a high-tech, in-demand, and rewarding career choice.

“The automotive industry is facing a significant shortage of qualified automotive service technicians,” said Antonietta Polsinelli, Technical Placement Manager. “With this collaboration, we are proud to support and motivate students who have demonstrated an aptitude toward technical skills to consider the opportunities a career as an automotive service technician can provide.”

Ford Motor Company has previously worked with TechForce by providing scholarships for technical education, but wanted to work to help students earlier. This program exposes students to advancements in auto manufacturing.

“We are thrilled Ford is continuing this collaboration through support of FutureTech Success as well as the scholarship program,” said Jennifer Maher, CEO and Executive Director of TechForce Foundation. “When techs rock, America rolls, and with Ford on board with their leading technology, we will educate and spur excitement within the next generation of automotive technicians.”

For more information about TechForce Foundation and the FutureTech Success campaign, visit TechForceFoundation.org.

 

About TechForce Foundation

TechForce Foundation® is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) with the mission to champion students to and through their education and into careers as professional technicians in the transportation industry. The Foundation distributes more than $2 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 Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan. The company designs, manufactures, markets and services a full line of Ford cars, trucks, SUVs, electrified vehicles and Lincoln luxury vehicles, provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company and is pursuing leadership positions in electrification, autonomous vehicles and mobility solutions. Ford employs approximately 200,000 people worldwide. For more information regarding Ford, its products and Ford Motor Credit Company, please visit www.corporate.ford.com.

 

For further information, please contact:

Jennifer Maher, Executive Director
jmaher@techforce.org
602-550-0371

 

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Great Dane Joins TechForce Foundation’s FutureTech Success Campaign

 

Great Dane Supports TechForce Foundation’s

FutureTech Success® Campaign

 

Partnership to close the skills gap and fuel the next generation of technicians and craftsmen.

 

Scottsdale, Ariz. – December 3, 2018 — Great Dane has signed on as a supporter of TechForce Foundation’s FutureTech Success campaign, helping to close the skills gap for entry-level technicians in the transportation industry. This opportunity to partner with the world’s largest manufacturer of commercial trailers will accelerate and drive future careers in this growing industry by providing new insight on different paths that are available.

The FutureTech Success campaign was created by TechForce Foundation, a nonprofit 501(c)(3), to ignite the passion and sense of purpose in students who love working with their hands, while also repositioning the image of the technical profession as a high-tech, in-demand, and rewarding career choice. Through the partnership, Great Dane and TechForce hope to reach parents, educators, influencers and future techs with the message that today’s transportation technicians are highly sought after and respected in the industry.

With a number of factors contributing to the technician shortage, Great Dane is committed to . building a sustainable technician pipeline for the future. “Great Dane is excited to partner with TechForce Foundation,” said Brandie Fuller, Vice President of Marketing at Great Dane. “We want to help students discover that there are truly rewarding careers available where they can work with their hands and provide them with new opportunities to experience and engage with the trucking and trailer industry.”

“This partnership will introduce future techs to the diversity of the industry, allowing them to see that the trucking and trailer technician pathway provides endless opportunities and that the full scope of the transportation industry is united in its need and respect for technicians,” explains Susan Dober, Great Dane’s Director of Organizational Learning.

“We’re out to prove that not only is a technical career a worthy one, but also one that is challenging, sophisticated and opportune to modern financial freedom,” said Jennifer Maher, Executive Director of TechForce Foundation. “Great Dane is a unifying company, one that will cross over and unite many in the trucking industry. Their collaboration with the FutureTech Success will catapult our mission and advance an industry and profession that’s as iconic and American as rock and roll.”

For more information about TechForce Foundation and the FutureTech Success campaign,
visit techforce.org.


About TechForce Foundation
TechForce Foundation ® is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) with the mission to champion students to and through their education and into careers as professional technicians. The Foundation distributes more than $2 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 Great Dane
Great Dane is the leading manufacturer of high-performance commercial transportation equipment, including dry and refrigerated trailers and truck bodies, as well as steel, aluminum and combo platform trailers. Great Dane has a storied history in the commercial trucking industry and is a driving force in trailer technology, innovation, quality and customer service.  Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, and with additional corporate offices in Savannah, Georgia, Great Dane has manufacturing plants strategically located throughout the United States. The company’s network of corporate owned branches, full-line independent dealers and parts-only independent dealers offers a broad range of distribution points for new and used trailers as well as aftermarket services across North and South America. Visit Great Dane online at www.greatdane.com.

Repairing the Tech Career Pipeline

This article originally appeared on April 13, 2018 in Fixed Ops Business; written by Kelly Beaton.


The auto industry is on the verge of major changes, considering the possible disruption that innovations like autonomous vehicles pose.

And, Jennifer Maher fears the industry might be ill-equipped to take on such challenges. The cold, hard stats seem to back up her beliefs, too: the industry needs nearly 76,000 new technicians in the near future, simply to make up for those that will soon age out of the workforce, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

“Our technical schools and community college programs are not putting out anywhere near that number,” noted Maher, the CEO and executive director of the TechForce Foundation. “That’s why the reality of trying to find qualified techs has become such a crisis.”

Spurred by such knowledge, Maher’s employer has partnered with fellow auto industry staple Manheim Auctions on their FutureTech Success initiative; Manheim recently made a $50,000 annual commitment to TechForce in support of the campaign. The companies have paired in an effort to educate Generation Z-aged students, as well as their parents, regarding what a career as an auto technician has to offer, through a multi-pronged initiative that includes speaking at schools, showing educational videos, and the creation of an online hub that pairs potential apprentices with business suitors.

“This is not just throwing money at a problem and thinking it’s going to be fixed in one day,” Maher noted, “but really the understanding that it’s going to take a strategic alliance on the part of lots of people to make a dent here.”

The auto industry has much more to offer potential job-seekers than many realize, according to the leaders of both TechForce and Manheim. They feel many parents simply need to overcome the industry’s negative stereotypes, such as that it leads to low-paying jobs.

It’s “a stereotype that [technicians] don’t make any money, when in fact their earning potential is actually extremely good—better than in some other industries,” said Angie Babin, Manheim’s vice president.

In the midst of modern society’s technological shift, jobs too are shifting, Maher noted. Technical trade workers are in demand, and many of those jobs can be had without a four-year college degree.

The average modern vehicle has approximately 100 million lines of code, meaning they require technicians who are immersed in modern technology. And both TechForce and Manheim feel there are plenty of talented, potential technicians among today’s youth.

Those gifted members of Generation Z simply need to be informed of all that a career in the auto industry has to offer.

They need to hear about the FutureTech Success project and learn of all it has to offer, such as potential internship opportunities, said Maher and Babin.

“I’ve spent years in shops,” noted Babin, “and I’ve never seen technicians’ eyes light up like I do when there’s a mentorship, or an apprenticeship, or training on new equipment, or [when they learn] how to do something they’ve never done before.

“We want to make sure that we wrap our arms around [potential young technicians] and provide them with the true career path and earning potential that we know they can have.”


Photograph of Kelly Beaton, staff writer for 10 Missions Media

 

Kelly Beaton is a staff writer for 10 Missions Media, where he produces content for Ratchet+Wrench, FenderBender and Fixed Ops Business.

 

 

 

 

TechForce and State Farm Donate Car to High School Auto Shop Program

 

State Farm and TechForce Foundation partnered to supply a local Phoenix high school with a 2016 Nissan Sentra, to use as a training aid in its auto shop program. The donation is part of the Foundation’s FutureTech Success campaign and presents the first opportunity for Trevor Brown High School students to work on a vehicle this new. This is a crucial step in preparing each student for an in-demand career in transportation technology.

 

Watch local Phoenix coverage of the donation below:

 

 

 

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