This blog series highlights exceptional organizations, schools, and companies that are showcasing the skilled trades and building the next generation of talent. We feel that is a more productive use of your attention than yelling about the current state of politics.
Right after finishing our last post about the financial benefits of starting a career in the trades, our team met Jarred Simpson at a trade show. What is so special about Jarred, and why should you care?
After graduating from high school last year, Jarred secured a paid Apprenticeship at Whitley Automotive in Marshville, North Carolina, and he enrolled at Central Piedmont Community College. Big deal right, thousands of young people enroll in college after graduating high school. However, unlike many of his peers, Jarred made a shrewd decision to participate in the state’s ApprenticeshipNC program, and is attending school absolutely free. He is on pace to graduate this coming Spring with his ASE 5, 6, and G1 Certifications, and a full-time job is waiting for him.
Opportunities like this are only possible when individuals like Jarred explore all of their options, elected officials use their political equity, and private business owners like Chad Whitley of Whitley Automotive recognize the value in developing the future talent of their industry. The skills gap will not be solved overnight, nor will it be solved by a single party. Rather, we must all come together as they did in Central North Carolina and develop long-term, practical solutions.
Better yet, Chad’s dedication to developing his team does not stop with recruiting. We’d also love to congratulate Spencer, or should we say ASE Master Technician Spencer!