Reflecting on my nearly 50-year career in the automotive aftermarket, perhaps my most rewarding experience has been the opportunity to serve as a Trustee of the University of the Aftermarket Foundation (UAF).

Since 1986, UAF has provided scholarships to thousands of talented and deserving young people seeking a career in the automotive aftermarket. In addition, UAF supports continuing education opportunities through the University of the Aftermarket at Northwood University. Aftermarket professionals can earn the prestigious Automotive Aftermarket Professional (AAP), Master Automotive Aftermarket Professional (MAAP), and Global Automotive Aftermarket Executive (GAAE) professional designations over time.

The technician shortage in our industry is critical and is not something to be ignored. To help address this issue, UAF urges the support of everyone who makes, has made, or is making their livelihoods in our industry so we can attract knowledgeable talent to the industry through education.

The UAF honor roll of donors displayed on the UAF website recognizes the generosity of those who understand the importance of a strong aftermarket workforce, from the Coffee Club, AWDA Aftermarket Challenge, Scholarship and Legacy Club contributors to the Lifetime Donors, including the Lifetime Trustees. Because of the generosity of these individuals and organizations, UAF can provide scholarships and educational opportunities to talented individuals pursuing and advancing their automotive careers.

At UAF, we’re grateful for those who share their time and resources, the financial donors as well as all of the volunteers who donate their time to make the foundation’s work possible. The UAF Board of Trustees is made up of industry leaders who donate their time to serve as stewards of the foundation, and over 100 industry veterans volunteer as scholarship reviewers, evaluating the countless scholarship applications received each year.

Please encourage your company to become a UAF Lifetime Trustee. If your company has done so already, please recommend continued support by leveling up to the Gold, Diamond, or Platinum Lifetime Trustee level. Perhaps most importantly, please consider contributing to UAF personally, either directly, through recurring Coffee Club donations or by making a planned-giving Legacy Club gift. We urge everyone in the industry to become personally engaged at any level they can.

There is no better way to help ensure the future of a successful and vibrant aftermarket than by supporting the University of the Aftermarket Foundation.

Together, we can make a difference.