Industry Support Starts When You Walk In The Front Door

06/02/2025 12 min
Industry Support Starts When You Walk In The Front Door

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Episode Synopsis

In a recent Tomorrow’s Technician Partnership Pathways podcast, Van Harris, a NAPA Auto Parts sales rep, shared insights on how industry partnerships with schools are shaping the next generation of automotive professionals.Harris has been instrumental in growing automotive programs at high schools like Chapel Hill High, working alongside instructor Robert Ballard to expand student opportunities. Their collaboration has helped transform the program from a struggling initiative into a thriving career pipeline, increasing student participation from 50 to 300.For shop owners, Harris stresses that engaging with local schools isn’t just community service—it’s a long-term investment in the industry’s workforce. Shops that mentor students today are securing skilled technicians for the future. His advice? Get involved. Whether by attending advisory board meetings, offering equipment, or simply showing students the career paths available, shops play a crucial role in ensuring the industry's sustainability.Want to secure your future workforce? Partner with local schools, support training programs, and help shape the next generation of skilled technicians.#AutomotiveIndustry #TechEducation #FutureTechnicians #ShopOwnerSuccess