The Imagine America Foundation is pleased to have recently presented a webinar with Dr. Steve Coyle of Universal Technical Institute (UTI). We know that the automotive workforce is changing, and Dr. Coyle shared with us (and a wonderful group of interested high school counselors) just how much that’s true.

Automotive programs have always been very popular choices for students attending trade schools. But now especially, when the country is seeing a serious shortage in skilled workers, an auto technician education can be the start of a great new career path. Automotive employers, including manufacturers, dealerships, and repair operations, are seeking qualified candidates to fill open positions.

While skilled workers remain critical to the industry, underemployment is a real problem. Up to 48 percent of college graduates end up going into occupations that don’t require a degree. That’s because, in part, only 20.5 percent of jobs in the US require a bachelor’s degree, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

As we prepare for a world of driverless technology and other automotive innovations, we have to remember that this isn’t science fiction we’re talking about. We need skilled auto technicians who have the qualifications and training needed to diagnose and service cars nationwide.

The auto service industry is a crucial piece of the American economy. With more than 260 million vehicles on the road in the United States, ensuring their safe and reliable use is essential. Millions are depending on them! But those vehicles are becoming more complex as they respond to ever-evolving technologies. Today’s autos have up to 100 million lines of code in their computerized components: they’re literally rolling computers.

The BLS projects that there will be more than 1.2 million technician job openings, including automotive service technicians and mechanics, bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists, and automotive body and related repairers, by 2026.

Do you have students who might be ready to pursue a career training program rather than attending a traditional four-year university? IAF has a robust database of schools, including UTI, to help them find the right program. We’ve also developed countless resources to support students along the way, from scholarship and award programs to help finding an apartment and creating their first budget. We can’t wait to help them get on the path to a new career!