04/13/2026

ASA Applauds Passage of Bill Supporting Automotive Apprenticeships and Training

Source: aftermarketNews

The Fiscal Year 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill was signed into law by President Trump. The bill’s report includes language supported by the Automotive Service Association (ASA) aimed at developing and strengthening apprenticeship and training pathways for automotive technicians.

Committee Language on Workforce Development

The U.S. House Appropriations Committee included the original language, which states, “Workforce Development in Innovative Skilled Fields — The Committee recognizes the growing need for highly-skilled mechanics and technicians in the automotive field to prepare for advances in technology. Therefore, the Committee encourages DOL, in collaboration with the Department of Education, to work with industry partners, workforce groups and nonprofit experts to better support pathways for mechanics and technicians in innovative automotive fields. Specifically, the Committee encourages the Department to examine their support for advanced training programs for established career mechanics and to examine needs related to the operation and repair of transportation fleets and motorized equipment.”

ASA Response

ASA Chairman Dan Stander praised the inclusion of the language, emphasizing the importance of expanding workforce development opportunities in the automotive repair sector.

“We are grateful to Chairman Aderholt and Chairman Cole for recognizing the growing need for apprenticeship programs and encouraging the U.S. Department of Education to work with industry professionals to find solutions to fill workforce shortages. The Administration has been clear of their support for apprenticeship programs, and ASA anticipates that these efforts will benefit the repair industry for years to come.”

ASA hopes that this language will help strengthen pathways for students and working professionals to gain the skills needed to become highly trained technicians, particularly as vehicle technology continues to advance.

For more information on ASA, visit asashop.org.