More than 400 student technicians from 20 Southern California high schools participated in two exciting workforce development events co-hosted by the Greater Los Angeles New Car Dealers Association (GLANCDA) and the California New Car Dealers Association Foundation (CNCDA Foundation). The events were held on May 1 at Citrus College and on May 2 at Cerritos College. Each event welcomed over 200 students for a full day of hands-on learning and career exploration.
Students attended breakout sessions led by new car dealers and automotive manufacturer representatives, featuring hands-on workstations, new vehicle displays and demonstrations of advanced technology found in today’s vehicles, such as electric powertrains and cutting-edge safety systems.
A highlight of each day was a hands-on skills competition featuring two student representatives from each high school. Participants competed in real-world automotive diagnostics and repair challenges. Thanks to funding from GLANCDA, over $10,000 in Snap-on tools were awarded to student competitors and their schools, helping to support continued technical education.
“These events are designed to show students that automotive careers today involve high-tech, exciting work and real opportunities for growth,” said a GLANCDA spokesperson. With more than 18,000 new car dealerships across the U.S. — including over 1,400 in California — the need for skilled technicians is greater than ever.
Participating schools included Van Nuys, Simi Valley, Artesia, Gahr, Canyon (Valencia), Mark Keppel, Carson, San Pedro, Montclair, Adelanto, Downey, Hoover, Nogales and Rowland.
Building on the success of these spring events, organizers will host another large-scale workforce development experience during the LA Auto Show in November 2025, with over 600 students expected to attend.
For students, it was an energizing and informative day, filled with hands-on learning, valuable career insights and a glimpse into the future of the automotive industry.
