REVVING UP CAREERS IN AUTOMOTIVE Kicking Off Recruitment Season BY ADAM MEMMOLO WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR, NHADA We are gearing up for another exciting and impactful recruiting season dedicated to promoting careers in automotive. This past summer was spent connecting NHADA member businesses with students and career and technical education (CTE) programs, and we are thrilled to continue our efforts this fall. Some of the more effective recruitment methods include visiting high school classrooms and career fairs to showcase the dynamic opportunities within the automotive industry. This, of course, is always enhanced when we are accompanied by a member business to help tell the “real-world” story. Over the summer, we witnessed incredible enthusiasm from both students and automotive professionals. Our mission was clear: to bridge the gap between talented young individuals and the ever-evolving automotive sector. Through workshops, summer camps and one-on-one interactions, we highlighted the promising career paths and hands-on learning experiences that the automotive trade has to offer. Students who are most likely to end up in the industry include the ones who are already enrolled in an automotive CTE program. Here, students are already exploring the fundamentals of auto repair, diagnostics and technology. By visiting these students, we can provide an opportunity to delve deeper into how these programs align with real-world career opportunities and how students can transition from classroom learning to professional success. Students not yet enrolled in a program or who are “on the fence” are not forgotten in our recruitment efforts. We also visit general high schools and attend several career fairs throughout the school year. These events are crucial for reaching students who may not yet be aware of the rewarding careers in automotive. Our participation in these events allows us to educate students on diverse roles within the industry, from technician positions to managerial and entrepreneurial opportunities. Our success in recruiting students to the workforce relies on the active involvement of automotive professionals within the NHADA community. If you or someone from your business is interested in getting involved, we encourage you to reach out to the NHADA Foundation (foundation@nhada.com). Your participation can make a significant impact by providing firsthand insights into the industry, mentoring students and supporting our mission to cultivate the next generation of skilled professionals. Getting involved is easy and highly rewarding. You can contribute by participating in career fairs, joining an advisory board, offering internships or apprenticeships, hosting classroom visits or simply sharing your passion for the industry with students. Every interaction helps to demystify the field and inspire young minds to consider a career in automotive technology. Together, we can drive forward the future of the industry. Let’s make this recruiting season a success by connecting with students, showcasing the exciting opportunities within the field and fostering a new wave of talent ready to take on the challenges and innovations of tomorrow’s automotive landscape. 18
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