TOPDON USA—a provider of automotive diagnostic tools, technology and software—announced the Techs of Tomorrow scholarship program, which will provide four annual awards totaling $37,000 to students pursuing careers in automotive technology and related fields. Each scholarship combines financial assistance with a professional-grade TOPDON toolbox to help students advance their education and prepare for successful careers in automotive repair, according to a company press release. Industry leaders and business professionals from across the automotive sector will serve on the Techs of Tomorrow Selection Committee to evaluate applicants and select the scholarship recipients.
“With a growing shortage of skilled automotive technicians across the workforce, supporting the next generation of talent has never been more important,” said Chad Schnitz, vice president at TOPDON USA. “Our Techs of Tomorrow scholarship reflects our commitment to helping aspiring technicians pursue their education, develop their skills and build successful careers in the automotive service industry. We created this scholarship to help close the skills gap and ensure the industry has the knowledgeable, well-equipped technicians that it needs for years to come.”
Industry Leaders Named to Scholarship Selection Committee
The Techs of Tomorrow Selection Committee comprises leading automotive industry professionals who will draw on their extensive experience to evaluate scholarship finalists and recognize promising emerging talent, the release noted. In addition to Chad Schnitz and Justin Herald, director of marketing at TOPDON USA, the committee includes:
- George Arrants: Vice President, ASE Education Foundation
- Jose Escobar: Project Manager of Recognition Programs, SEMA
- Chip Foose: Owner, Foose Design
- Tony Frassetto: Director, Business Alliances, Universal Technical Institute (UTI)
- Sheonny Harrell: Director of Integrated Marketing & Strategic Programs, NAPA Auto Parts
- Aaron Shelby: Board Member, Carroll Shelby International
Scholarship Award Categories & Values
The Techs of Tomorrow scholarship program provides financial assistance and essential diagnostic tools to help students build rewarding careers in automotive technology. Four scholarships will be awarded annually across the following categories:
- One high school student, first-year auto tech student, or equivalent: One scholarship awarded annually for $3,000 cash and a $2,000 TOPDON toolbox, a $5,000 scholarship value
- Two students currently enrolled in an accredited auto tech school or training program: Two scholarships awarded annually, each $5,000 cash and a $5,000 TOPDON toolbox for a $20,000 combined scholarship value
- One auto tech student or equivalent who will graduate within 12 months: One scholarship awarded annually for $6,000 cash plus a $6,000 TOPDON toolbox for a $12,000 scholarship value
“We’re extremely grateful to our selection committee members who share our commitment to developing the next generation of automotive technicians,” said Schnitz. “Their collective expertise spans automotive certification, design, retail sales, manufacturing, education and industry associations, providing a well-rounded perspective on the skills needed to succeed in today’s evolving automotive landscape. With their expertise, we can help ensure the Techs of Tomorrow scholarship recognizes promising talent and creates meaningful opportunities for future automotive professionals.”