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T2's Partnership Pathway

T2's Partnership Pathway

By: Babcox Media
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About this listen

 Tomorrow’s Technician’s Partnership Pathways Podcast, presented by NAPA, presents inspirational conversations about partnerships between schools, shops and suppliers. These conversations are designed to offer real-world solutions to challenges shops experience while trying to find employees and educators face when preparing students for employment opportunities in the automotive industry.Copyright Babcox Media
Episodes
  • Addressing the Technician Shortage: Innovative Solutions from the Classroom

    Addressing the Technician Shortage: Innovative Solutions from the Classroom
    Feb 3 2026
    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.
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    24 mins
  • From Farm Boy to Global Executive: The Journey of ASE CEO Dave Johnson

    From Farm Boy to Global Executive: The Journey of ASE CEO Dave Johnson
    Feb 3 2026
    From Farm Boy to Global Executive: The Journey of ASE CEO Dave Johnson
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    31 mins
  • Driving the Future: How Chad Groom is Redefining Education & Empowering the Next Generation

    Driving the Future: How Chad Groom is Redefining Education & Empowering the Next Generation
    Dec 17 2025
    What does it really take to inspire and equip the next generation for success in the rapidly evolving automotive industry? In this episode of Tomorrow's Technician's Partnership Pathways Podcast powered by NAPA, Chadwick Groom, an extraordinary automotive instructor, shares his powerful journey and innovative approach. From the pivotal role of his own instructors to fostering deep mentorships, Chad reveals how empathy, hands-on learning, and crucial industry partnerships are transforming students' lives.
    Discover:
    • The true scope of an instructor's role: More than just teaching mechanics, it's about building relationships and guiding life paths, transforming students who once struggled academically.
    • How vital industry collaboration (like with Ford) creates unparalleled opportunities, from scholarships to curriculum, and financial support for students from diverse backgrounds.
    • The incredible power of a professional, hands-on learning environment to foster confidence and a career-ready mindset.
    • Why the automotive industry is ripe with opportunity – addressing the critical technician shortage, breaking barriers for women, and offering financially rewarding careers without crippling debt.
    • How educators are preparing students for the electric, hybrid, and autonomous vehicle revolution, ensuring they're equipped with cutting-edge skills.
    #AutomotiveIndustry #TechEducation #FutureTechnicians #ShopOwnerSuccess
    Chad Groom's story is a testament to the ripple effect of genuine care and proactive teaching. This isn't just about fixing cars; it's about building futures and shaping an entire industry.

    Tomorrow's Technician: TomorrowsTechnician.com
    NAPA: NAPA.com
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    26 mins
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