Tenneco Automotive’s Monroe and Walker brands are partnering with several leading automotive vocational education programs to advance automotive technical training through the new Tenneco DRIVE program.
DRIVE, an interactive training partnership featuring cutting-edge technical materials and web-based communication, was developed to help enhance the preparation of the next generation of undercar technicians. The program will reach nearly 1,000 students in its first year.
Industry research indicates that the total number of ASE-certified technicians has declined steadily since 1995. DRIVE represents a new investment by Monroe and Walker in the future of independent automotive service businesses, which rely on a continuing flow of talented new technicians to replace those who retire or leave the industry.
“It’s no secret that it is increasingly difficult for automotive education programs to attract and retain students,” said Richard Alameddine, vice president of marketing, North American Aftermarket, for Tenneco Automotive. "Automotive service can be a promising and rewarding career for thousands of young people with the skills and drive to take charge of their future. The Tenneco DRIVE program communicates this message while providing students with a wide range of new learning tools."
Materials available through the DRIVE program are a comprehensive instructor’s kit containing disassembled ride control product samples, exhaust product cutaways, training posters and instructional videos. Students can enroll individually in the program through in-classroom demonstrations and online interaction with the Monroe and Walker engineering and marketing teams. Tenneco Automotive has long supported technician education through programs such as the Monroe "Ride & Drive" vehicle testing tour and other initiatives.
For more information about the Tenneco DRIVE program, write to: Tenneco DRIVE Marketing Program, One International Drive, Monroe, MI 48161. Additional information regarding Monroe and Walker products is available online at www.monroe.com and www.walkerexhaust.com, respectively.