American automaker Ford is stepping up to solve the nation’s critical shortage of skilled automotive technicians with a massive $4 million investment in scholarships.
This is real American ingenuity.
At a glance:
• Ford and its dealer network are investing $4 million in auto technician scholarships, doubling last year’s commitment
• The program will provide 800 students with $5,000 scholarships each
• Industry faces a projected shortage of 471,000 automotive technicians by 2028
• Applications are open until the end of September through TechForce Foundation
• Funds can cover tuition, childcare, transportation, housing, and food expenses
Ford’s Bold Investment Tackles Growing Crisis
Ford Motor Company is taking decisive action to address America’s growing shortage of automotive technicians with its expanded scholarship program. The $4 million investment represents a significant increase from previous years, with the company committing $1 million in 2023 and $2 million in 2024 to the initiative.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the automotive industry will need to fill approximately 67,800 technician positions annually through 2033. This growing demand comes as fewer young Americans pursue careers in automotive repair despite the field’s increasing technological sophistication.
Program Expands Reach to Support American Workers
The expanded program will now provide 800 students with $5,000 scholarships each, a significant increase from the 200 scholarships offered when the program launched in 2023. These funds can be used not only for tuition but also for other essential expenses like childcare, transportation, housing, and food that often create barriers for students trying to complete their education.
“This problem is bigger than Ford,” said Alex Shelton, Ford’s U.S. retail communications manager. “Over the last three years, we’ve been able to grow it from $1 million to $2 million to this year, a $4 million program that will support 800 students across the country.”
The scholarship program represents a strategic investment in America’s workforce, focusing on developing skills that cannot be outsourced. By training more American technicians, Ford is helping ensure that vehicle owners nationwide will continue to have access to qualified repair services as automotive technology becomes increasingly complex.
The TechForce Foundation will manage the application and distribution process, with applications open until the end of September. Scholarships are available to both future and current students enrolled in eligible automotive, diesel, or combined technician post-secondary programs.
With AI taking so many jobs these days, this sounds like a fantastic opportunity for young Americans looking to do something that will serve them well for years to come.
