AAA and NAPA are celebrating the one-year anniversary of their joint auto technician apprenticeship program in an effort to narrow an industrywide gap. The program is available to AAA-approved auto repair facilities and i designed to educate and guide the next generation of automotive repair professionals. 

“We are committed to developing future professionals at AAA and NAPA, and we look forward to continuing to educate and support the talent in the industry,” said NAPA Director of Strategic Accounts Ryan Ouellette. 

As of December, there are 103 enrollees in the program, according to AAA. As apprentices advance through it, they can earn four Automotive Service Excellence certifications, which are valuable in dealership service centers and in repair shops. 

Due to an ongoing service technician shortage, AAA said it aspires to “foster the talents needed to advance the automotive industry.” 

“We are proud to be part of this initiative with incredible partners in the industry supporting aspiring technicians for successful careers in the automotive field,” said AAA Managing Director Cliff Ruud.