I have heard this statement many times over the last few years. It is a real problem, and it is only getting worse. Auto industry statistics show there will be a shortage of more than 400,000 auto technicians this year. This shortage is happening because of retirements and the lack of young people choosing to go into automotive technology.
Auto dealers need to be more active in cultivating and recruiting the next generation. The future technicians we need are currently in high school. The option of joining the world of automotive technology has a poor reputation among young people as a career choice. High school guidance counselors often push students toward college, since schools are ranked on college attendance rates. Promoting the trades comes second, which leaves automotive careers overlooked.
Dealers and dealer associations need to work with schools to present the true benefits of becoming an automotive or diesel technician. The profession has changed. At one time, being a technician was mostly dirty, backbreaking work. Today, with computerized systems and the rise of electric vehicles, the knowledge and skills required are far more advanced and high tech.
Many large dealer groups have already created their own technical schools to train technicians in-house. Some individual dealers assign a master technician to mentor and train others on the team. These efforts show commitment to solving the technician shortage and building long-term strength.
Dealers should also develop a recruitment and career development plan with local schools. This can be done in several ways. Participate in career days at high schools. Build relationships with automotive technology instructors. Encourage your technicians to volunteer their time to speak with students, or consider offering compensation. You could also host open house tours at your dealership to showcase career opportunities. Contact your county’s public school office to learn which schools have technical programs.
Above the high school level, your dealership should also reach out to local vocational or technical colleges. Connect with their administration and instructors to sponsor recruitment drives around graduation. Offering equipment, resources, or financial support is not just charity—it is an investment in your dealership’s future. These partnerships often put you at the front of the line to recruit top graduates.
Working with organizations like SkillsUSA is another way to build strong industry relationships. SkillsUSA has chapters in every state and knows which schools are running technical programs.
We must all agree that the shortage of technicians and other dealership staff is a serious concern. Recruitment efforts must be ongoing and strategic. The days of finding technicians by word of mouth or waiting for them to walk in from another dealership are over.
If we want strong service departments, we must grow our future technicians and show young people that the auto industry is a rewarding and respected career path.
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