Training the Next Generation

Northwood University recently hosted its annual Full Tank Auto Camp in Midland, Michigan. The purpose of the camp is to provide a learning experience for high school students who are curious about careers in the automotive industry. Fixed Ops Roundtable held a Pop-Up Event at the camp, offering a platform for us to share insights into how we can evolve our approach to training the next generation of automotive professionals.

Traditional dealership training focuses almost exclusively on skills and processes which, while critical, form only part of the picture. For example, the role of a service technician goes beyond repairs. It’s important for techs to understand the impact their role has in the dealership’s success, as well as their opportunities for advancement. Northwood University’s curriculum, which spans automotive management, operations, and marketing, exemplifies this broader educational approach.

Not every new hire in fixed operations comes from an automotive-specific background. Many employees enter their roles with the basic skills they need to do the job, yet they receive minimal training from the dealership. Broadening these employees’ understanding of dealership operations can help instill confidence and clarity about their potential and improve job retention.

As dealers develop training programs for new hires, some of the methodologies taught by Northwood University and at the Full Tank Auto Camp could easily be incorporated.?

HERE ARE KEY STRATEGIES TO CONSIDER:

1. Know Your Employees

According to the Zurich Insurance Group, Generation Z makes up 27 percent of the workforce. These employees were born after 1996 and are bringing different expectations into the workplace.

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