LKQ Corporation partners with TechForce Foundation to build the technician workforce
August 8, 2023 – PHOENIX — LKQ Corporation, through the LKQ Community Foundation, and TechForce Foundation have entered into a strategic partnership to support students pursuing a technical education and career as a professional transportation technician.
LKQ, the largest provider of alternative vehicle collision replacement products, is concerned over the seriousness of the automotive and collision technician shortage and wants to be part of the solution. Currently there are 5 jobs available for every student graduating tech school. Therefore, LKQ has donated $50,000 to support TechForce Foundation’s charitable programs, including a nationwide public service campaign recognizing the value and importance of skilled technicians, its FutureTechs Rock and Techs Rock awards, and TechForce, the first of its kind, gamified online community of aspiring and working technician to find tech schools, scholarships, events, apprenticeships and jobs.
“LKQ knows the importance of skilled technicians; they are the backbone of the automotive and collision industries,” says Justin Jude, President of LKQ North America-Wholesale. “Part of LKQ’s mission is to build strong partnerships in the communities in which we operate, and we are proud to partner with TechForce, a leading nonprofit committed to helping young people discover and successfully pursue the technician career.”
“TechForce helps students find a technical education and career that fits,” explains TechForce’s executive director, Jennifer Maher. “Let’s consider Hayden, a recent TechForce scholarship and grant recipient. He was never made aware of the rewarding career opportunities in mobility and, as a result, spent a decade working jobs he did not enjoy. Fortunately, Hayden discovered his passion, returned to an automotive tech program with TechForce’s support at age 30, and could not be happier with his new career as a professional technician.” TechForce inspires and supports students like Hayden at all stages in their career journeys.
Maher continued, “Not everyone wants to go the 4-year university path. For those who love problem-solving and working with their hands, a technical career may be a perfect fit. We are proud to welcome LKQ as a partner in our work to change the public perception of these high-tech STEM careers.”
About LKQ Corporation
LKQ Corporation (www.lkqcorp.com) is a leading provider of alternative and specialty parts to repair and accessories automobiles and other vehicles. LKQ has operations in North America, Europe, and Taiwan. LKQ offers its customers a broad range of OE recycled and aftermarket parts, replacement systems, components, equipment, and services to repair and accessories automobiles, trucks, and recreational and performance vehicles.
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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