For generations of Detroiters, the roar of the Grand Prix and the Woodward Dream Cruise have been the soundtrack of childhood. But the legacy that built the Motor City wasn’t just born on the track — it was sustained in service bays by the people who knew how to keep America moving.
Today, those service bays look very different, requiring advanced computer diagnostics alongside traditional tools. And we are facing a stark reality: By 2029, the U.S. auto industry will need more than 350,000 new technicians to keep pace with rapid technological shifts — including 7,000 right here in Michigan. To keep our industry’s heartbeat strong, we have to strengthen the pipeline of future auto technicians.
The Blueprint for a New Era
That is why today Ford and Bloomberg Philanthropies are announcing a $5 million investment to help Detroit students prepare for high-demand auto technician careers.
Together, we will lead an innovative public-private partnership to expand and modernize the auto technician programs at two schools within the Detroit Public Schools Community District, giving more students access to affordable, hands-on training and clearer pathways into the automotive workforce.
For Detroit students interested in auto tech careers, this partnership offers direct, practical support and aims to train over 300 new technicians in the next three years by:
- Modernizing classrooms with state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment and tools.
- Helping students secure industry credentials before graduation to jump-start their careers.
- Supporting educators with training on the latest automotive technology.
- Removing barriers by providing critical transportation support so students can more easily access work-based learning opportunities.
This partnership with Detroit Public Schools speaks to Ford’s ongoing commitment to supporting future auto technicians. Our Ford Customer Service Division ensures students are trained to the technical standards our modern dealerships demand, while Ford Philanthropy helps remove the real-world barriers — like tool and transportation costs — that too often keep students from finishing their training.
This isn't a standalone effort; it’s a natural extension of our broader commitment to supporting future auto technicians, building on proven programs like our earn-while-you-learn ASSET initiative and the Ford Auto Tech Scholarships offered in partnership with Ford dealers.
The Road Ahead
We know workforce challenges don't have a one-size-fits-all solution. Solving them requires deep, meaningful partnerships between schools, communities, and local employers. That’s why Ford is committing $300 million this year to support skilled trades workforce development across automotive technician training programs, manufacturing apprenticeships, philanthropic giving, and our Essential Economy corporate initiatives.
By providing the training, tools, and transportation students need, we hope this program serves as a road map for other communities to adopt and ultimately gives more students an affordable path to a great job and a great career.
Mary Culler is the president of Ford Philanthropy.
Daniel Justo is the vice president of Ford Customer Service Division (FCSD).
