The basics:

• NJ CAR, NJDOL launch new automotive technician program
• TAP provides 18-week immersive training at local dealerships
• Program addresses expected need for 12,500 new techs by 2026
• Funded in part by state PACE Grant to expand career access

In an effort to address a critical shortage of automotive technicians in New Jersey, a new program launched July 29.

The Technician Advancement Program is a nation-leading initiative to expand access and provide a structured pathway into this high-demand field of automotive repair and maintenance.

At an event held at Honda of Toms River, the New Jersey Coalition of Automotive Retailers announced the new program in partnership with the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce and Development. NJDOL will back the effort with a Pre-Apprenticeship in Career Education (PACE) Grant.

“Pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs are essential for cultivating a skilled workforce while removing barriers to training and meaningful employment,” said Labor Commissioner Robert Asaro-Angelo.

“As someone who walks the floor of my dealership every day, I know how important it is to have technicians who are well trained and available to meet the needs of our customers,” said Anton Semprivivo, executive vice president of Honda of Toms River.

Key things to know about TAP:

• Provides an immersive, real-world training model
  • Instruction takes place at regional dealership training camps mirroring standards at national institutions
  • Offers students direct exposure to the workplace environment they will join after completing the program
• Program takes place over 18 weeks
  • Classes run Monday–Thursday from 4–8 p.m.
  • Total 288 instructional hours meets the threshold required for entry into a registered Level 2 apprenticeship under the state’s Automotive Technician Apprenticeship Program

Officials stress that the demand for qualified automotive technicians is a serious issue. They said New Jersey is poised to need 12,500 new technicians by 2026. Those figures are necessary to replace those retiring. Meanwhile, it also aims to keep up with the increasing complexity of today’s vehicles.

NJ CAR says that TAP marks its response to this workforce crisis. It described the initiative as more than just a training program, but rather a career launchpad.

“This is a win-win for worker, communities, and New Jersey’s retail automotive sector,” said NJ CAR President Laura Perrotta. “TAP creates a seamless pipeline from classroom to a lucrative career, while helping dealerships meet the growing demand for skilled technicians.”

“NJ CAR is proud to offer this important program to strengthen our workforce and continue to provide world-class value that our customers deserve,” said NJ CAR Chairman Ronald Baus Jr. “For family-operated businesses like mine, programs like TAP are essential to keep our customers and our neighbors safe on the road.”

Semprivivo added, “TAP provides a great pathway to an incredible job right here in New Jersey.”

Asaro-Angelo said the NJDOL is grateful to partner with NJ CAR on this initiative. “And together we are opening doors to New Jersey’s automotive industry for future professionals who will help bolster growth and innovation for years to come.”