“Companies, students and schools all benefit from school-work partnerships. That’s why we’ve developed the Adopt-A-School program with online resources to make it easier for them to collaborate,” said Mike Coley, president of the ASE Education Foundation. “The goal of the Adopt-A-School program is to give companies the tools to implement successful workplace learning programs so they can identify and train the next generation of skilled service professionals. And because solving the tech shortage is so critical, ASE is providing this toolkit free to employers and schools.
The three steps to adopting a school include:
Connect with a school – Find ASE-accredited auto, collision, and truck programs at https://aseeducationfoundation.org/find-a-program. Each listing includes school contact information so you can contact the program instructor and schedule a meeting. Be prepared to discuss how your company can help programs, students, and industry through your involvement and review your own goals and what you could also gain from the program.
To be involved – There are many ways to get involved. For example, by joining the school’s advisory board, you can help ensure students graduate with the knowledge and skills employers need. Committees typically meet twice a year to review training programs and provide advice and feedback. Schools also appreciate those who fund scholarships and donate supplies, t-shirts, parts, tools, equipment, or even entire vehicles. By beginning to participate in program activities, you can increase your involvement over time.
Fill the pipeline – Because the transportation industry lacks qualified service professionals, your company will not only help the community and the industry, but your business will benefit from the opportunity to meet, train and hire future employees from the start.
Learn more about the ASE Education Foundation’s Adopt-A-School program and how to get started by visiting ASEeducationFoundation.org/adoptaschool and access the full toolkit with step-by-step plans, ideas and examples. For more information about the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), visit ASE.com.