Ford Is Investing In Training The Technicians It Needs For The Future

Ford has recognized a real need in upcoming technician shortages, and it is taking a leading role in training the techs the automaker needs for the future.

A while back – say the 1970s or so – automakers like Ford, Chrysler, and GM – the Detroit majors – pursued programs that trained technicians for their many dealerships. It was a program that worked very well as thousands of young techs who knew the vehicles they would be working, and the tech they would be using were turned out.

Ford Has Set Up A Similar Program

Ford dealers and Ford Fund, the philanthropic arm of Ford Motor Company, are investing $2 million in scholarship funding in 10 regions to help students pursue careers as automotive technicians. Spanning over 20 states and 292 eligible schools, the Ford Auto Tech Scholarship will grant 400 need-based awards to current or future students enrolled in post-secondary auto programs.

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

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

Program Open To Those Seeking Automotive Training

The Ford Auto Tech Scholarship is open to individuals pursuing automotive technology degrees or certificates in the 10 selected regions, covering various costs associated with their education. The scholarship may be used for all attendance costs, including tuition, tools, living expenses, and transportation. During the students' educational journey and career transition, Ford dealers in each region will serve as a support system, offering advice, onsite training, and career guidance. 

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

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

One Student’s Experience

For Makenna Enga, a student recipient from UTI-Phoenix, this scholarship means breaking free from traditional career paths. 

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"I am extremely passionate about pursuing a technical education in automotive technology for many reasons,” Enga said. “To start with, a pretty obvious one is the lack of women in the industry. No one in my family has studied a trade, but I believe I was made for it."

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

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

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Marc Stern has been an automotive writer since 1971. His automotive articles have appeared in venues including Popular Mechanics, Mechanix Illustrated, AutoWeek, SuperStock, Trailer Life, Old Cars Weekly, Special Interest Autos, and others. You can follow Marc on Twitter or Facebook.