Building on the momentum of a successful 2025 inaugural event that drew over 200 attendees, this year’s summit—themed "Shifting Gears: Preparing for the Next Era of Automotive"—aims to bridge the gap between classroom instruction and real-world shop demands. The two-day program begins at the Frontwave Arena in Oceanside before moving to Palomar College in San Marcos for focused technical training sessions.
California Automotive Leaders Convene to Address Technician Shortage
California dealerships are currently facing a critical shortage of 5,000 automotive technicians, a deficit that has prompted educators and industry leaders to gather for the second annual California Automotive Technical Education Alliance conference, scheduled for October 9-10 in Oceanside and San Marcos.
Kim McPhaul, president of the California New Car Dealers Association Foundation, emphasized that the conference serves as a vital nexus for high school instructors, trade school administrators, independent repair shop owners, and regulatory representatives. Participants will address pressing industry challenges, including employee retention strategies, shop culture development, and the integration of emerging technologies into vocational curricula. Beyond professional development, the event provides a platform for connecting students with scholarships, internships, and apprenticeship opportunities, ensuring a more robust pipeline for the state's workforce.
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