DETROIT — General Motors is launching a national program to recognize outstanding automotive service technicians under age 30 as the auto industry confronts a persistent shortage of skilled workers and increasingly complex vehicle technology.

The new GM Automotive Service Technicians 30 Under 30 initiative will honor 30 young professionals who demonstrate technical expertise, leadership, customer service and a commitment to continuing education.

In an interview with MITech TV, Andrew McKittrick, Director of Dealer Service & Warranty Operations at General Motors, discussed the new initiative and GM’s efforts to encourage more young people to pursue automotive service careers.

The program comes as the National Automobile Dealers Association estimates an annual shortfall of approximately 37,000 automotive technicians, according to information provided by

Modern Vehicles Require New Skills

Today’s automotive technicians are increasingly working with sophisticated computer systems, advanced diagnostics, electronic controls and electric-vehicle technology.

For Michigan, home to GM and thousands of automotive-related businesses, developing those skills is an important part of maintaining a competitive automotive workforce.

GM President Mark Reuss emphasized the importance of recognizing technicians as vehicle technology evolves.

“Service technicians are on the front lines of innovation as our vehicles become more complex,” Reuss said in the company’s September 23 announcement.

Building The Next Generation Of Technicians

GM’s new recognition program complements several existing workforce initiatives:

  • GM Automotive Service Educational Program (ASEP): A two-year program combining college instruction with paid dealership apprenticeships.
  • Shifting Gears: A 12-week training program helping military personnel transition into automotive service careers.
  • Technician Excellence: A professional development program supporting technicians as they earn certifications and advance their careers.

GM says the 30 Under 30 honorees will serve as ambassadors to encourage younger workers to consider automotive service careers.

Nominations Open Through October 30

Eligible candidates must be 29 or younger as of December 31, 2026, and currently work as automotive service technicians at authorized U.S. GM dealerships.

Nominations close October 30, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern.

GM plans to announce the inaugural honorees January 7, 2027, followed by an induction ceremony in Detroit.

Learn more about eligibility and submit a nomination through GM’s official website.

Watch the MITech TV interview: Andrew McKittrick discusses GM’s new initiative and the future of automotive service careers.