In this episode of the Partnership Pathways Podcast, powered by NAPA and presented by Tomorrow’s Technician, John Stratton, an automotive instructor at Oneida-Herkimer-Madison BOCES in New Hartford, NY, discusses the evolving nature of automotive education and the challenges facing the industry.

Stratton explains that BOCES is a Board of Cooperative Educational Services that allows small school districts to share resources and offer career technical education programs like automotive.  He typically sees around 18 first-year students and 10 second-year students, noting that not all students are cut out for the demanding technical work. 

Stratton shares his own journey into the automotive industry, starting with a passion for cars as a child and then pursuing an associate degree in auto tech. He transitioned from being a technician to a shop foreman and service manager before eventually becoming an instructor.

The discussion delves into the rapid changes in the automotive industry, which require educators to constantly adapt their curriculum and teaching methods. Stratton emphasizes the importance of preparing students to be self-learners, as they will need to continuously upskill throughout their careers.

Stratton highlights various partnerships and initiatives that have helped enhance the program, such as acquiring a donated Ford Escape hybrid and collaborating with the New York State Power Authority. He also discusses the importance of incorporating soft skills and professional development into the curriculum, leveraging resources like Skills USA as well as industry partnerships.

The conversation explores the ongoing issues within the automotive industry, including the technician shortage, his concerns around the flat-rate pay system and the need for better mentorship and professional development opportunities for young technicians.

Stratton emphasizes the importance of the automotive industry and educational institutions working together to address these challenges and develop the next generation of skilled technicians.

Partnership Pathways is powered by NAPA.

From Farm Boy to Global Executive: The Journey of ASE CEO Dave Johnson

What does it really take to inspire and equip the next generation for success in the rapidly evolving automotive industry? In this episode of Tomorrow's Technician's Partnership Pathways Podcast powered by NAPA, Chadwick Groom, an extraordinary automotive instructor, shares his powerful journey and innovative approach. From the pivotal role of his own instructors to fostering deep mentorships, Chad reveals how empathy, hands-on learning, and crucial industry partnerships are transforming students' lives.
Discover:

• The true scope of an instructor's role: More than just teaching mechanics, it's about building relationships and guiding life paths, transforming students who once struggled academically.
• How vital industry collaboration (like with Ford) creates unparalleled opportunities, from scholarships to curriculum, and financial support for students from diverse backgrounds.
• The incredible power of a professional, hands-on learning environment to foster confidence and a career-ready mindset.
• Why the automotive industry is ripe with opportunity – addressing the critical technician shortage, breaking barriers for women, and offering financially rewarding careers without crippling debt.
• How educators are preparing students for the electric, hybrid, and autonomous vehicle revolution, ensuring they're equipped with cutting-edge skills.

#AutomotiveIndustry #TechEducation #FutureTechnicians #ShopOwnerSuccess
Chad Groom's story is a testament to the ripple effect of genuine care and proactive teaching. This isn't just about fixing cars; it's about building futures and shaping an entire industry.

Tomorrow's Technician: TomorrowsTechnician.com
NAPA: NAPA.com

Doug Kaufman speaks with Rebecca Levey, owner of Metropolitan Garage in Fairbanks, AK, as she shares her inspiring journey, highlights her unique leadership style and explains how she's cultivated a thriving automotive shop in a challenging environment.

Rebecca opens up about her transition from administrative duties to operational leadership, a significant shift in a male-dominated industry. Her philosophy of "authority as a position of care" is central to her success, demonstrating that genuine care for her team is the foundation of trust and loyalty. She recounts early efforts to address her team's "grit your teeth" moments — small frustrations that, once resolved, built immense trust. 

The interview covers key innovations at Metropolitan Garage, including the implementation of a digital inspection platform and leveraging Emotional Intelligence training (from Yale University) to enhance team communication. Levey candidly discusses the importance of a leader's ability to apologize and take responsibility, fostering an environment of open dialogue. 

Facing Fairbanks' unique challenges — a transient workforce and high cost of living — Rebecca made a strategic decision to grow her team from within. She details an innovative apprenticeship program that offers a "skin in the game" approach, including stipends and tools ownership, and integrates a highly successful four-day work week (four 10-hour shifts) to support her team's lifestyle. This structure not only attracts high-quality talent but also ensures a strong, process-focused team dedicated to continuous improvement and technician development. 

Rebecca's story is a powerful testament to how unconventional leadership, deep care for employees, and smart strategic decisions can lead to exceptional success in the automotive service industry. 

Partnership Pathways is powered by NAPA.

In a compelling episode of the Tomorrow's Technicians Partnership Pathways podcast, editor Doug Kaufman sits down with Jay Goninen, co-founder and president of WrenchWay and host of Beyond the Wrench. Jay shares the deeply personal "why" behind WrenchWay's mission: to promote and improve technician careers by fostering stronger connections within the automotive industry.

Goninen recounts his journey from a childhood sweeping floors in his dad's Wisconsin shop to realizing his true passion lay not in turning wrenches, but in connecting people. This insight led to the evolution of WrenchWay, from its origins as a recruiting service (Find a Wrench) to its current comprehensive platform, including the vital "School Assist" program. School Assist provides a free platform for schools to request support—from guest speakers and shop tours to donations—while enabling shops to contribute meaningfully and build lasting relationships.

Learn about the critical issue of the technician shortage, emphasizing that a collective effort, focusing on small, consistent support for schools, is key to building a robust talent pipeline. Jay addresses common pushback from shop owners, highlighting how WrenchWay streamlines engagement, making it easier for busy professionals to prioritize industry partnerships. He also shares insights from WrenchWay's Voice of Technician report, revealing important data on technician satisfaction and an updated, more accurate perspective on technician pay (closer to $80,000/year average) that aims to better educate the industry.

This interview offers a powerful reminder that collaboration, mentorship, and a genuine commitment to supporting educational programs are essential for the long-term health and growth of the automotive technician profession. Jay encourages everyone—from instructors and students to shop owners and parents—to visit WrenchWay.com or connect with him on LinkedIn to learn more and get involved.

In this episode of the Tomorrow's Technicians Partnership Pathways podcast, Doug Kaufman interviews Bill McAnally, owner of McAnally-Hilgemann Racing and BMR NAPA Auto Care Centers. McAnally shares his journey from racing himself to developing drivers and building a successful racing and auto care business. He emphasizes the importance of teamwork, passion, and effort in achieving results.

McAnally discusses the integration of his race shop with a NAPA Auto Care center, highlighting the benefits of this unique model. He talks about the various drivers who have come through his program, some of whom have reached the highest levels of NASCAR. McAnally also credits his long-standing partnership with NAPA Auto Parts, which has lasted 35 years.

McAnally underscores the importance of finding employees who care about their work, customers, and colleagues, noting that these qualities are essential for success. He also describes his involvement with local high schools, including starting an automotive class at his race shop to introduce students to the industry. He closes by sharing that enthusiasm, success, and the success of the people around him fuels his passion for what he does.  

#AutomotiveIndustry #TechEducation #FutureTechnicians #ShopOwnerSuccess #NASCAR

For more information, visit NAPA (NAPAOnline.com), Bill McAnally (BMRNAPA.com or BMRNAPARacing.com) or Tomorrow's Technician (TomorrowsTechnician.com).

In this episode of Partnership Pathways, Doug Kaufman interviews John Baadilla, Director of National Event Marketing Operations for the NHRA, about the Youth and Education Services (YES) program.

Founded in 1989, the YES program introduces students to drag racing and the diverse career opportunities within the automotive industry. With NAPA as a key partner and presenting sponsor, the program reaches students through live events at 15 national NHRA events and a virtual program accessible year-round.

John explains that the YES program offers a unique experience, showcasing "all the opportunities that exist in the world of a drag racing, along with the automotive industry as well." Students attend presentations, meet professionals like Ron Capps, tour the pits, and watch the races, witnessing the application of science, technology, engineering, and math in real-world settings. 

The NHRA Launch Motor Sports Careers program acts as "a career portal where numerous job opportunities in every field in the sport are posted" to connect students with jobs in the industry.

John encourages local automotive repair shops to participate by posting roles on the NHRA Launch portal or connecting with the YES program at events. Overall, John notes that the partnership helps "bridge that gap from attending as a high school student to landing an actual job within an organization that is in the NHRA industry."

For more information, visit NAPA Online (NAPAOnline.com), NHRA (NHRA.com/YES) or Tomorrow's Technician (TomorrowsTechnician.com).

In this episode of the Partnership Pathways podcast, Doug Kaufman interviews Joe Sabo, Senior Product Manager at NAPA, delving into his personal journey from vo-tech programs to his current role.

Joe, who grew up in a blue-collar household and worked on cars with his dad, emphasizes his empathy for young technicians breaking into the industry. He notes how his years selling both to DIYers and professional technicians helped him learn "what do consumers need, what do technicians want, what are their expectations and how can we better serve them?"

The conversation includes the rebranding of Carlyle Tools, which Joe explains was data-driven and focused on meeting the needs of the next generation of technicians. This includes making "the highest performance, highest quality tools possible while keeping as much of the cost out of it." Joe emphasizes that Carlyle aims to provide quality tools without the pressure of mobile tool trucks or potential ridicule from peers.

Joe acknowledges some may perceive that the rebranding and new product lines risk alienating veteran technicians, but insists that quality and performance are still the priority. Furthermore he emphasizes that, "a technician is going to purchase two thirds up to three quarters of their tools within the first 10 years of coming into the industry" so Carlyle is hoping to be that first brand and build lasting professional relationships. Finally Joe emphasizes the career opportunities afforded by NAPA, including training and innovation, and how its reach and resources are dedicated to training and emerging technologies.

#AutomotiveIndustry #TechEducation #FutureTechnicians #ShopOwnerSuccess #CarlyleTools #

For more information, visit NAPA (NAPAOnline.com), Carlyle (CarlyleTools.com) or Tomorrow's Technician (TomorrowsTechnician.com).

In this episode of the Partnership Pathways podcast, powered by NAPA, Doug Kaufman interviews Jake Sorensen, ASE Master Technician and shop manager at McNeil's AutoCare, in Sandy, UT, about the NAPA Autocare apprenticeship program. Jake discusses the nationwide program offered at no additional charge to NAPA Autocare shops, designed to take individuals "from little or no experience" and, in roughly two years, "build them into a technician." The competency-based program is divided into nine stages, ensuring technicians prove they've retained knowledge before advancing.

Jake shares the program's origin, stemming from his shop's struggle to find quality technicians. He explains that he was challenged by his shop’s owner, Pete McNeil to “do something about the technician shortage” their shop faced. Together, the two developed a program to leverage existing resources like NAPA's online training and local vendor reps. The program gained accreditation with the Department of Labor, offering graduates ASE certifications. NAPA recognized its potential for broader implementation and scaled it to be available to all AutoCare centers.

Jake underscores the importance of identifying suitable mentors within the shop, emphasizing that it's not about using the highest producing tech, but someone "that wants to do it right" and possesses patience. Mentors should be rewarded for their time and effort. Finally, Jake urges shops to take advantage of the NAPA program because he notes "It frustrates me to hear shop owners talk about the technician shortage but not contribute."
For more information, visit NAPAOnline.com or TomorrowsTechnician.com.  
 
#AutomotiveIndustry 
#TechEducation #FutureTechnicians #ShopOwnerSuccess #Mentorship

In this episode of Tomorrow's Technician's Partnership Pathways Podcast, powered by NAPA, host Doug Kaufman speaks with Ritchie Wimmer, a multifaceted shop owner and automotive instructor at Morro Bay High School.

In addition to sharing his amazing life-altering story, Ritchie shares his insights on the challenges of being a successful shop owner today and how mentorships and apprenticeship programs can bridge the gap between generations in the automotive industry.

Key Takeaways:

• The Need for Formal Apprenticeships: Ritchie emphasizes the importance of creating formal apprenticeship programs in the trades, similar to those in welding or HVAC, to provide structured pathways for aspiring technicians.
• The ASE Blue Shield Advantage: Ritchie discusses his goal of becoming an ASE Blue Shield shop, highlighting the benefits of accreditation and the challenges of meeting certification requirements in his area.
• Mentorship's Role in Professional Development: Ritchie reflects on how mentorship played a role in his own career, from starting as a glorified janitor to becoming a shop owner.
• Training Both Sides: Ritchie explains how he trains both students and his shop team, creating a pathway for students interested in cars while also ensuring his staff stays up-to-date with the latest technology.
• The Importance of Basic Skills: Ritchie stresses the need for entry-level technicians to master basic skills, such as oil changes and customer service, before moving on to more complex tasks.
• The Value of Teamwork: Ritchie shares his approach to fostering teamwork among students, creating a supportive environment where they can learn from each other.
• The Role of Volunteers: Ritchie highlights the value of retired professionals volunteering in high school auto shops, providing one-on-one support to students and allowing instructors to focus on the broader class.

Learn more about Ritchie Wimmer's involvement with his school, his shop and his nomination for Instructor of the Year.