Yokohama Tire Corporation has become a lifetime trustee of the University of the Aftermarket Foundation and Jeff Barna, YTC president and CEO, has been named to the UAF board of trustees.
“On behalf of the University of the Aftermarket Foundation, we extend our sincere thanks to Yokohama Tire Corporation for their generous support and welcome Jeff Barna to the UAF board of trustees,” said Roger McCollum, MAAP, chairman, University of the Aftermarket Foundation. “By becoming a lifetime trustee, Yokohama is demonstrating their commitment to the development of a skilled workforce that can drive industry innovation and service excellence. Their support is not just a contribution, but an investment in the future of the tire industry.”
Since 1986, UAF has provided millions of dollars in scholarships to thousands of students studying for technical and professional industry careers, the organizations noted in a press release. Among the benefits UAF provides are:
- Support for continued education for industry participants, including the AAP and MAAP certification programs.
- Support industry educational initiatives.
- Provide a recognition platform to honor or memorialize individuals.
- Highlight industry career opportunities to attract the next generation of industry professionals.
- Engage industry members to work together for the future.
“UAF helps pave the way for the next generation of automotive aftermarket leaders,” Barna said. “Yokohama believes in, and is committed to, seeding the industry with future talent. We think it’s important for tire manufacturers, like Yokohama, to consider being involved in this worthy endeavor, and are honored to lay the foundation for others to follow.”
According to McCollum, donations to UAF benefit:
- Students pursuing technical careers in automotive maintenance and repair, collision, heavy duty/diesel, performance or other segments of the industry.
- Students planning careers in the industry in such fields as engineering, supply chain, IT/cybersecurity, sales, marketing and finance.
- Suppliers/vendors and other industry organizations through the education of those who work for them through programs like Leadership 2.0.
- Employees, customers, colleagues, children and/or friends of industry participants.
- All members of the motor vehicle aftermarket as UAF helps attract talent and supports multiple industry education initiatives.