The CNCDA Foundation has evolved, thanks to the leadership of our board of directors and industry advisors. We are growing young people’s interest in automotive careers in California through programs focused on four key pillars:
- Fostering career awareness.
- Supporting career choice.
- Providing innovative career training.
- Inspiring career growth.
The following are ways we are making a difference across California.
Programs for Current Auto Students
Automotive Technology Career Days
High school automotive students engage directly with local college auto programs and industry leaders. These events offer hands-on experiences led by dealership employees and showcase the latest automotive technologies brought by our manufacturer sponsors. Students can also explore local employment opportunities through job fairs at the event.
Internship Program
College auto students can apply to be sponsored by a dealership where the student is paired with a mentor. They will work together during the eight-week program to build a relationship aimed at securing employment upon completion. This program will launch in Q2 of 2025.
Programs for 16-24 Young Adults Without Access to Auto Class
Pre-Apprenticeship Program
Designed for students and young adults without access to automotive classes in high school, this program prepares participants for careers as technicians. The curriculum covers essential topics such as safety, general automotive knowledge, and best practices, laying the groundwork for future apprenticeships and career success.
Apprenticeship Program
In partnership with the CNCDA Foundation and Automotive Apprenticeship Group (AAG), this comprehensive two-year program offers on-the-job training, combining recruitment, hiring, education and hands-on experience. Apprentices earn while they learn, gaining brand-specific skills and receiving a certificate from the U.S. Department of Labor. This initiative helps dealerships build a consistent pipeline of skilled technicians who are ready to meet the industry’s evolving needs.
Programs Supporting Automotive Educators
California Auto Educators Support Network
Supporting automotive educators is critical to building a strong pipeline of future employees. This network aims to empower educators with the resources and support they need to thrive and address these challenges:
- Closing the pay gap for automotive teachers as compared with their A-G colleagues.
- Enhancing access to modern tools, technologies and resources in their classrooms.
- Aligning California curriculum standards with current industry needs.
- Developing a path to teaching for current technicians and continued education teachers who have been out of the industry for a number of years.
Through these initiatives, we are not just filling jobs — we are building interest in automotive careers and fostering a skilled workforce of tomorrow.
