Dealers Field Technician Farm Teams as Labor Shortage Looms
Experts predict nearly 100,000 U.S. workers will have to start careers as automotive and heavy-duty truck technicians this year and next to keep up with demand. WardsAuto’s Nancy Dunham reports at least one dealer group is taking a proactive approach.
Michigan’s Genthe Automotive, in partnership with Sonic Tools, promotes technicians from their quick lube to the service department with formal training and $10,000-plus worth of tools once they fulfill a three-year commitment.
“We are always recruiting for our quick lube, and we have kind of a stairstep from oil change that will get you into the main shop,” says Bruce Genthe, president of Genthe Automotive. “Now, you’re in a learning program with other technicians, the service manager, picking up (education) and working toward your certification.”
