Nowhere is the need for younger generations more apparent in the automotive world than in the ranks of vehicle technicians, mechanics, and all types of niche specialists.

The pandemic of recent years worsened a maintenance labor shortage that has challenged the fleet and remarketing sectors. One company that has met this shortfall head on is Cox Automotive Mobility Fleet Services, which is finding ways to not only meet the demand for skilled technicians but train them for the light and medium duty vehicles of tomorrow.

Three members of the fleet services division will join the Conference of Automotive Remarketing for a closer look at the specialized training, tools, and skills being cultivated to align with training needs and adapt to changing vehicle technology:

• Terry Rivers, senior manager of vehicle services training, Cox Automotive Mobility Fleet Services

• Icie Hinton, vehicle technician, Fleet Services by Cox Automotive

• Nakita Stevens, vehicle technician, Fleet Services by Cox Automotive

The session, “Beyond the Garage: Training Technicians for Tomorrow,” will be held Wednesday, March 27 at 3:30 pm at the Hilton Phoenix at the Peak.

Of note, the session will cover customer service excellence, and how to better understand the changing needs of customers, including auctions, consignors, and rental fleets, and how to deliver efficient and affordable services that align with these expectations.

The panelists will discuss the general trends affecting fleet technician training, including the shift towards cleaner and more efficient transportation options. The panel will explore how these trends are shaping the automotive industry.

They will also highlight the specialized skills and tools required for today’s fleet technicians, including the role of hands-on training, the crucial role of mentorship programs, the practicality of vehicle conversion as a training tool, and the unique requirements of working with EVs and specific vehicle types.

Other key session takeaways:

• Adapting to technology: Attendees will learn about the importance of staying current with advancements in vehicle technology, especially with the rise of EVs, and how specialized training can prepare technicians for these changes.

• Mentorship and community: The panel will highlight the crucial role of mentorship programs like Women Who Wrench and the impact of community involvement, as demonstrated by Icie Hinton's work with the Growing Indy Group and Son Wing’s mentorship contributions.

• Career development: Tips on career development and pathways to success in the automotive industry, including the value of real-world experience, continuous learning, and adapting to industry demands.

• Social responsibility: Insights into how the automotive industry aligns with broader social goals, such as sustainability and social justice, and how technicians can contribute to these efforts through their work and community engagement.