To foster a smoother transition from training to dealership, graduates tell us that the employees assigned to mentor them were essential in establishing a comfortable space to ask more nuanced questions. They shared that having someone who provides clear guidance in the fast-paced dealership environment was critical to their overall success. As such, Hughes revealed, “I’m extremely grateful to have had two great mentors who’ve helped me get where I am today.” All people have the capacity to inspire others, and that was true for Vanderbilt, who said, “I could tell the TAP instructors absolutely loved what they did. It really inspired me to get into the trade, and because my mentors pushed me to try new things, it helped me grow as a technician.” Mike Kelley sums up how important the dealership’s role is in encouraging the next generation of auto techs in stating, “TAP gives dealerships the opportunity to mentor, invest in, and develop the next generation of technicians. It’s a win for the student, dealership, customer, and future of our industry.” If given the opportunity, TAP graduates can become skilled automotive techs who rise through the ranks. Consider This: Graduates of the pilot class of February 2025 have already accumulated 1.5 years of experience at their dealership. The Takeaway: Dealerships that invest in NJ CAR’s TAP grads will have long-term auto techs who in turn invest in the dealership. WHAT’S NEXT? As the creators of TAP, we’ve taken great care to address dealer concerns around hiring newly trained automotive techs from our program. We understand your caution around safety, experience, and preparedness regarding repair quality. Fortunately, TAP is unique in that it provides students with the hands-on application of classroom teachings directly in real dealerships — something traditional training simply doesn’t offer. “If we can help create a clear roadmap for success, provide meaningful mentorship, and demonstrate a true path for career growth, we’ll continue to attract, develop, and retain the talented technicians this rapidly evolving, technology-driven industry depends on,” said Kelley. “I’d encourage every dealership to get involved. I’ve seen firsthand that great technicians aren’t found, they’re developed. The technician shortage isn’t going away, and we can’t expect someone else to solve it.” TAP graduates are already excelling in their new positions, and dealers are taking note. Nissan testifies that: “Finding your first job in the industry can be very difficult because most employers want people with experience. When I interviewed at the dealership, I didn’t have to answer many technical questions because it was enough for them to know I graduated from TAP.” There’s been no shortage of interest from students in our bootcamps, and the feedback has been incredible. “If you’re good with your hands and enjoy learning hands-on, it’s absolutely worth it to go through TAP,” Hughes comments. “Being a part of this program is a privilege,” Vanderbilt adds. He even goes a step further in telling future students: “If you’re really passionate and want to make a career out of being a technician, I can’t imagine a better place to start.” The reality is that TAP only survives if dealers invest in these graduates. Dealers and students alike recognize the value of this program and the graduates it produces. Will your dealership join us? Dealers interested in hiring graduates from the Technician Advancement Program or learning more about TAP should contact NJ CAR Workforce Development Manager & TAP Coordinator Brandon Jurakhan by email at tap@njcar.org or by phone at (609) 672-3829. TAP GRADUATES ARE ALREADY EXCELLING IN THEIR NEW POSITIONS, AND DEALERS ARE TAKING NOTE. Instructor demonstrating the basics of diagnosing an electrical concern to pilot TAP class at Dayton Toyota 23 NEW JERSEY auto retailer
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