Over the past few years, the automotive industry has faced its fair share of struggles, including the fact that it’s losing technicians faster than it can replace them. On top of that, with technology advancing at a rapid rate, there’s a need for more skilled techs capable of working on them, and there just aren’t enough out there in the talent pool to fill current demand – let alone future needs. Experts project that the auto industry will face a shortage of 400,000 techs in the U.S. by 2028, in fact, but now Ford dealers and the automaker are working to combat that yet again, amid various efforts that include not only providing scholarships for students, but also, vehicles they can work on and hone their skills with.
Ford Philanthropy – the automaker’s charitable arm – and Ford dealers are aiming to do precisely that by expanding the existing Auto Tech Scholarship program, which originally launched in 2023. This program is designed to make automotive technician careers more accessible, build a more capable workforce, and attract the next generation of skilled workers. This time around, the Ford Auto Tech Scholarship program is offering $5,000 scholarships to 800 potential auto techs across 42 states and 600 schools, which can be used to pay tuition, or just cover regular expenses like transportation, childcare, tools, and living.
Ford dealers have been instrumental to the program’s success thus far, as an initial $1 million investment in 2023 quickly doubled to $2 million in 2024, and now it has yet again doubled to $4 million for 2025. Dealers fund half of that total, and Ford Philanthropy matches those contributions. TechForce Foundation, a national non-profit committed to supporting students in technical professions and Ford Philanthropy partner, oversees the application and selection process. Students interested in applying for a scholarship have until September to do so.
“This program is an investment in our customers and the people who will drive the future of our industry,” said Ford Chief Dealer Engagement Officer, Elena Ford. “Together with our dealers, we are creating educational opportunities that will make a lasting impact on the communities we serve.” “The scholarships offer a comprehensive support system,” added Alex Shelton, Ford Philanthropy education portfolio manager. “Our aim is to relieve some of the financial barriers that often prevent talented individuals from pursuing their dreams.”
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