A $4 million scholarship program funded by Ford Philanthropy and Ford Dealers is helping train the next generation of workers in the automotive tech industry, a field that’s currently in high demand. The program awards $5,000 tuition scholarships to students pursuing careers in automotive and diesel technology. 

One Detroit Producer Will Glover sat down with Ford Philanthropy Education Manager Alex Shelton outside of Michigan Central to learn about the program, what it offers, and what major companies like Ford are doing to close the gap.  

Shelton explained how mechanics have had to learn new skillsets required to work on modern vehicles that are packed with computer chips and sensors. Shelton shared experiences from students who have successfully completed the program and talked about the potential earnings and opportunities for people who specialize in the automotive tech field.