Schools are open again, which means the Workforce Development team is hitting the road, reconnecting with students, meeting new ones, and promoting automotive careers. Last year was a challenging year and we saw the effects; fewer scholarship applications, lower college interest and applications, and a deeper hole in the technician workforce. However, the NHADA workforce development model is a strong one. Our membership has been developing and supporting workforce development initiatives for a long time and it puts us at an advantage over other industries in these difficult times. Our model is made stronger through the support of our CTE and college programs as well as member contributions towards scholarships and participation in Foundation events.
This fall, we will be visiting the high school, automotive classes, with industry and college representatives, presenting to the students on the benefits of auto careers, the many pathways they can take within the community college system, and NHAEF scholarships. We make sure they know that there is a community of people who support them and want them to be successful in this industry. Our Race to 5K initiative (pictured below):
will continue as we try to reach 5,000 subscribers, building a community of people who are invested in the future of the auto industry. The Race to 5K is also the driving component of our new tracking database that will provide necessary data to determine the success of our scholarships and workforce initiatives.
We will also be holding our College and Career Day on October 12th at Manchester Community College. This event brings together students, colleges, and industry to make necessary connections and spark interest in auto careers. Despite Covid restrictions, many schools see the importance of this event and have been approved to attend. College and industry representatives will be on hand to meet and greet students, there will be activities highlighting advanced technologies, an industry panel, and many other opportunities for our members to engage with students.
We recognize the challenges that the automotive industry faces to fill the many open positions. We will continue to do our part to maintain a strong presence in schools, promoting awareness and ensuring that future techs have the education, resources, and training they need to become qualified members of the workforce. There are always ways to get involved, don’t hesitate to reach out and see how.