Addressing the Technician Shortage: Innovative Solutions from the Classroom

In this episode of the Partnership Pathways Podcast, powered by NAPA and presented by Tomorrow’s Technician, John Stratton, an automotive instructor at Oneida-Herkimer-Madison BOCES in New Hartford, NY, discusses the evolving nature of automotive education and the challenges facing the industry.

Stratton explains that BOCES is a Board of Cooperative Educational Services that allows small school districts to share resources and offer career technical education programs like automotive. He typically sees around 18 first-year students and 10 second-year students, noting that not all students are cut out for the demanding technical work.

Stratton shares his own journey into the automotive industry, starting with a passion for cars as a child and then pursuing an associate degree in auto tech. He transitioned from being a technician to a shop foreman and service manager before eventually becoming an instructor.

The discussion delves into the rapid changes in the automotive industry, which require educators to constantly adapt their curriculum and teaching methods. Stratton emphasizes the importance of preparing students to be self-learners, as they will need to continuously upskill throughout their careers.

Stratton highlights various partnerships and initiatives that have helped enhance the program, such as acquiring a donated Ford Escape hybrid and collaborating with the New York State Power Authority. He also discusses the importance of incorporating soft skills and professional development into the curriculum, leveraging resources like Skills USA as well as industry partnerships.

The conversation explores the ongoing issues within the automotive industry, including the technician shortage, his concerns around the flat-rate pay system and the need for better mentorship and professional development opportunities for young technicians.

Stratton emphasizes the importance of the automotive industry and educational institutions working together to address these challenges and develop the next generation of skilled technicians.

Partnership Pathways is powered by NAPA.