On the Dash:

• Ford estimates the U.S. auto industry will need more than 350,000 new technicians by 2029, including 7,000 in Michigan alone.
• The program creates a pipeline of dealership-ready technicians trained to Ford service standards.
• Technician shortages remain a major challenge, with Ford CEO Jim Farley recently citing roughly 5,000 unfilled service technician positions across Ford dealerships.

Ford and Bloomberg Philanthropies are investing $5 million in Detroit-area public schools to address the automotive industry’s growing technician shortage and build a pipeline of dealership service professionals.

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The initiative supports students in the Detroit Public Schools Community District by modernizing automotive classrooms, equipping educators with advanced technology training, and helping students earn industry credentials before graduation.

Ford expects the program to train 300 new technicians over three years.

Why it matters

Ford estimates the U.S. auto industry will need more than 350,000 new technicians by 2029, with approximately 7,000 needed in Michigan alone. Ford CEO Jim Farley said roughly 5,000 technician positions sit unfilled across Ford dealerships, despite wages that can reach $120,000 annually.

Ford’s Customer Service Division will align student training with dealership technical standards, reflecting modern service departments’ growing reliance on computer diagnostics alongside traditional repair skills.

Since 2023, Ford Philanthropy and Ford dealers have invested more than $11 million in Ford Auto Tech Scholarships, supporting 2,200 students nationwide. Ford dedicated $4 million this year to assist 800 students pursuing technician careers.

Ford Philanthropy will also provide financial support for tools, transportation and other expenses that can block students from entering the workforce.