DEARBORN, Mich. — Ford dealers and the Ford Fund, the philanthropic arm of Ford Motor Co., will invest $2 million in scholarship funding in 10 regions to help students pursue careers as automotive technicians.
The TechForce Foundation, a national nonprofit with the mission to champion all students to and through their education and into careers as professional technicians, will administer the funds.
The Ford Auto Tech Scholarship will provide 400 need-based awards to current or future students enrolled in post-secondary auto programs, in more than 20 states and for students in 292 eligible schools.
The automotive industry continues to face an ongoing shortage of technicians, Ford said, with more than 400,000 techs needed by 2027. Now in its second year, the Ford Auto Tech Scholarship creates opportunities for careers as the industry moves toward electrification and software integration.
"As vehicles become more advanced, we need highly skilled technicians to maintain and service them," Chief Dealer Engagement Officer Elena Ford said. "Partnering with our dealers to invest in these students helps create job opportunities, shapes the future of our communities, and drives growth in our industry."
The scholarship is open to individuals pursuing automotive technology degrees or certificates in the 10 regions, covering various costs associated with their education. Funds may be used for all costs of attendance, including tuition, tools, living expenses, and transportation.
Ford dealers in each region will serve as a support system, offering advice, onsite training, and career guidance, the auto maker said.
"Every technician plays a vital role in moving our communities forward. In order to solve the shortage of technicians the transportation industry currently faces, and because diversity drives innovation, we need to make the field more accessible for people of all backgrounds," TetchForce CEO Jennifer Maher said.
"By partnering with Ford Dealers and Ford Fund to remove barriers to entry and increase greater economic mobility, we pave the way for more communities to thrive."
Ford is granting $5,000 per student in financial assistance for education and training in auto and auto/diesel at a wide range of accredited institutions.
Last year, 200 students received $1 million in scholarships across four regions: Greater Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas and Phoenix.
Students eligible for the 2024 Ford Auto Tech Scholarship must be pursuing a degree in one of the following regions: Greater Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit, Phoenix, Kansas City, Memphis, Miami, Seattle and Cincinnati areas.
The application process is through Aug. 31. Scholarships will be awarded on a rolling basis and applications reviewed as received. To learn more about the 2024 Ford Auto Tech Scholarship, click here.
