LKQ donates $50K to TechForce Foundation

PHOENIX — LKQ Corp., a supplier of alternative vehicle collision replacement products, has donated $50,000 to the TechForce Foundation to support students pursuing technical education and careers as professional transportation technicians.

The donation, made through the company's LKQ Community Foundation, will support TechForce's charitable programs including a nationwide public service campaign recognizing the value and importance of skilled techs, its FutureTechs Rock and Techs Rock awards, and its TechForce online community.

LKQ said it "is concerned over the seriousness of the automotive and collision technician shortage and wants to be part of the solution," claiming there are currently five jobs available for every student graduating tech school.

"LKQ knows the importance of skilled technicians; they are the backbone of the automotive and collision industries," Justin Jude, president of LKQ North America-Wholesale, said. "Part of LKQ's mission is to build strong partnerships in the communities in which we operate, and we are proud to partner with TechForce, a leading nonprofit committed to helping young people discover and successfully pursue the technician career."

TechForce inspires and supports students at all stages of their career journey, TechForce Executive Director Jennifer Maher said.

"TechForce helps students find a technical education and career that fits," she said.

"Not everyone wants to go the 4-year university path," she added. "For those who love problem-solving and working with their hands, a technical career may be a perfect fit. We are proud to welcome LKQ as a partner in our work to change the public perception of these high-tech STEM careers."