TechForce Foundation

Haade is a Diesel Technician II and shift lead at Penske Truck Leasing, where he takes on complex diagnostics, road service calls, and mentors junior technicians.

After completing Penske’s TAP program, he received one of the fastest promotions in his shop. Outside of work, he maintains a local pharmacy’s medicine delivery truck at no cost.

Vote now at TechForce.org/TechsRock 🗳️


Penske

Dylan is following in his family’s footsteps as a third-generation diesel mechanic while working to build a legacy of his own.

As he begins his training, his goal is to become a master technician, develop strong diagnostic skills, and eventually mentor the next generation entering the skilled trades.

Vote now at TechForce.org/TechsRock 🗳️


Universal Technical Institute

Jon is a 2024 ASE World Class Technician and the 2026 NAPA/ASE Technician of the Year. He mentors younger technicians in his shop and helps other shops solve difficult diagnostic problems.

He also runs his shop’s Wishes on Wheels program, which repairs and provides vehicles to families in need. Last year, the program provided two vehicles to local families.

Outside the shop, Jon also coaches youth soccer.

Vote now at TechForce.org/TechsRock 🗳️


Mevert Automotive & Tire Center The NAPA NetworkASE Certifications

Trey is 18 and runs a free repair setup from his family’s garage for neighbors who can’t afford a shop.

His one rule is that the owner stays and watches so they leave with a better understanding of their own vehicle. He has also taught basic vehicle maintenance to women through the Driving for Success program.

His plan is to earn his AAS and ASE certifications, complete a business degree, and eventually open his own shop.

Vote now at TechForce.org/TechsRock 🗳️


Colorado Mesa University

Kain is a Natural Gas Power Technician I. He graduated from Universal Technical Institute and began working at Aggreko just three days later.

He earned a 4.0 GPA in the Diesel & Industrial Technology and Cummins Power Generation programs, along with Director’s List honors and Cummins qualifications.

Kain now works on 1300 kW and 1500 kW natural gas generators and was assigned his own unit within weeks. He also helped a UTI classmate get hired at Aggreko and is now training him. 🔧

Vote now at TechForce.org/TechsRock 🗳️

Laila is a first-generation college graduate who earned a mechanical engineering degree and then chose trade school for Automation Technology, despite resistance from people around her.

She also represented her college during Utah’s 2026 legislative session and helped secure $3.2 million for a new diesel building.

After restoring her 1967 Mustang, she founded Pretty Girl Motorsports, a women-focused apparel and educational brand.

Vote now at TechForce.org/TechsRock 🗳️


Southwest Technical College

🎉 The wait is over - our 2026 Techs Rock Awards Finalists are HERE! 12 outstanding techs across 6 categories.

Winners announced at The SEMA Show. Vote now at TechForce.org/TechsRock 🗳️

We’re in San Antonio for the 2026 Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) Professional Development Conference!

Yesterday, we led our Learning Lab, “Connected Capacity: From Student Success to Workforce Strength.”

We talked about the full student journey, from enrollment to employment, and how schools and partners can work together to strengthen the connections that help students move into meaningful careers.

We also shared how TechForce scholarships, career exploration, student resources, and industry connections can support schools and students along the way.

A big thank you to ACCSC for bringing this community together and giving us the opportunity to learn, share, and connect with so many people committed to student success and the future of the skilled trades. 💙🔧

We're about to reveal the Top 12! Dropping Mon, Sept 21 👀🎉