The technician shortage is no secret, but the solution might be closer than you think. In a recent Tomorrow’s Technician Partnership Pathways podcast, Van Harris, a regional sales rep for NAPA Auto Parts, shared how strong partnerships between schools, shops, and suppliers can help secure the future of the industry.
Harris has been working with automotive training programs for over two decades, helping schools like Chapel Hill High School transform their programs from underfunded afterthoughts into thriving pipelines for skilled technicians. Under the leadership of instructor Robert Ballard, the program has grown from 50 students to over 300, thanks in part to strategic industry support.
Why Should Shop Owners Care?
Harris makes a powerful case: if today’s repair shops don’t invest in technician training, they won’t have a workforce tomorrow. He regularly brings shop owners, dealership representatives, and industry leaders into classrooms to showcase the talent being developed and encourage them to engage with students directly.
Shops that get involved now can:
✅ Build relationships with future techs before they enter the job market.
✅ Help shape training programs to ensure students develop real-world skills.
✅ Create mentorship and apprenticeship opportunities that benefit both students and businesses.
How Can Shop Owners Get Involved?
1️⃣ Join advisory boards – Schools need input from industry professionals to shape their programs.
2️⃣ Offer hands-on training – Loaning tools, donating equipment, or providing shop tours can make a big impact.
3️⃣ Mentor students – Encouraging young talent and offering internships builds a stronger workforce.
4️⃣ Support diversity in the trade – With 33% of students in Ballard’s program being female, now is the time to foster inclusive opportunities.
Harris emphasizes that this isn’t charity—it’s an investment. As he puts it, “If you don’t invest in this, you won’t have a business in 10 to 15 years.”
The Bottom Line
Shops that take an active role in training the next generation will be the ones with the skilled techs needed to stay competitive. If you’re not already working with a local school, now’s the time to start.
#AutomotiveIndustry #FutureTechnicians #InvestInTalent #ShopOwnerSuccess #WorkforceDevelopment
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