T2's Partnership Pathway

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

In this episode of Tomorrow's Technician's Partnership Pathways Podcast powered by NAPA, Doug Kaufman speaks with Robert Ballard, automotive instructor at Chapel Hill High School in Chapel Hill.
Ballard has built an impressive automotive program at his high school, as evidenced by his school being named B’laster Products’ Instructor of the Year in 2022 and the WIX School of the Year 
in 2023 – but he is quick to acknowledge that success isn’t due to his efforts alone. He wouldn’t be successful without strong partnerships between community and industry. 
Ballard explains the importance of having a diverse and inclusive advisory board that includes a wide range of industry partners, from small independent shops to dealerships. He says this helps him keep his program up-to-date with the latest industry needs and technologies.
Ballard also discusses his efforts to build diversity in the classroom, with an effort to overcome perceptions of a male-dominated industry. He strives to get more female students involved in automotive, including starting a female-focused lunch-and-learn program and getting Girl Scout troops interested in automotive.
The school's racing program has also been growing, with female students taking an active role in building and racing the cars. 
Ballard credits his strong partnerships with local suppliers, especially NAPA, for helping him overcome challenges in getting the necessary parts and equipment for his program.