Ford Invests $4M to Tackle Auto Technician Shortage
Ford is investing $4 million in auto tech scholarships to help address the nationwide technician shortage, providing 800 students with financial support.
March 10, 2025
Makenna Enga turned her passion for auto mechanics into a career with the help of a Ford scholarship. Now, she’s breaking barriers and aiming for Formula One.
Photo: Ford Pro
2 min to read
Ford is continuing its efforts to address the critical nationwide shortage of automotive technicians with a $4 million investment in its Auto Tech Scholarship program. This follows a $1 million investment in 2023 and a $2 million investment in 2024, reinforcing the company’s commitment to building a skilled workforce.
As vehicles become increasingly complex, the demand for trained technicians is surging. By 2028, the industry will need an estimated 471,000 automotive technicians, leaving approximately three open positions for every graduating technician.
To help bridge this gap, Ford Dealers and Ford Philanthropy are expanding their scholarship program, awarding 800 students with $5,000 scholarships each, a substantial increase from 200 scholarships in 2023. This initiative ensures that dealerships can service modern, technology-driven vehicles while providing career opportunities for aspiring technicians.
A Scholarship That Fuels Passion and Career Growth
Makenna Enga’s story is a testament to how scholarships can empower individuals in male-dominated fields.
Originally planning to play college soccer, Makenna discovered a passion for auto mechanics despite having no family background in the industry. Through self-study and hands-on projects, she honed her skills and enrolled in an auto tech program, only to face financial barriers.
A Ford scholarship enabled her to continue her education, equipping her with essential skills for success. Now a technician, Makenna is dedicated to providing honest service, educating customers, and breaking stereotypes in the industry. Her ultimate goal is to work in Formula One racing.
How to Apply for the Ford Auto Tech Scholarship
Ford is investing in the next generation of auto technicians, like Mustafa Alhefady (left) and Keiry Perex-Ruiz (right), expanding its scholarship program to help students pursue hands-on careers in a growing industry.
Photo: Ford Pro
Students interested in a hands-on career with six-figure earning potential can apply for the Ford Auto Tech Scholarship through September. Eligible students will be selected from across the country.
Applications are open at TechForce.org.
For more information on Ford’s initiatives to support aspiring technicians and the latest industry insights, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter.
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