IHRA and ADRL Pro Modified driver Harold Martin – the “EFI Wizard” – has had an illustrious career, both on and off the track. An entrepreneur and engineer, ACDelco-sponsored Pontiac racer Martin is again competing in two separate racing circuits this season in addition to taking on a new role for ACDelco: youth outreach.
Impassioned by motorsports and the technology that enables one to become a winner, Martin is raising awareness of the industry shortage of qualified automotive technicians and awarding scholarships in the process.
At select dates on the IHRA and ADRL race circuits, Martin is encouraging young people to pursue careers in automotive technology, spreading the word about the demand for qualified technicians. He also is promoting the ACDelco – Harold Martin “Pros Who Know” Scholarship Program, which awards four high-school seniors each a $2,500 scholarship for first-year expenses at an accredited vocational school, trade school, college, or university.
In addition to these scholarships, ACDelco will present $500 in ACDelco automotive parts to each winning student’s school, helping these institutions’ vocational programs.
“Through the ACDelco – Harold Martin ‘Pros Who Know’ Scholarship Program, we’re trying to raise awareness of the current nationwide demand for 80 – 100,000 qualified automotive technicians,” said Chris Brandt, ACDelco advertising manager. “With the U.S. Department of Labor – Bureau of Labor Statistics estimating the market will increase 9 – 17% between 2010 and 2014, ACDelco and Harold Martin are actively encouraging young people to pursue careers in automotive technology.”
The ACDelco – Harold Martin “Pros Who Know" Scholarship Program runs through October 15, 2007. Each applicant must submit a personal essay entitled, “What Winning the $2,500 ACDelco – Harold Martin ‘Pros Who Know’ Scholarship Would Mean to Me.” Harold Martin and ACDelco’s Total Service Support (TSS) Advisory Council will consider this essay, along with the applicant’s transcript, letter of recommendation and financial need. They will review all applications and make their final decision in November 2007, with winners being notified by January 2008.
“We absolutely have to invest in our future,” said Martin. “When you look at all of the great opportunities that exist in the automotive industry, it’s a great thing to be a flagship that can instill and motivate young students to pursue careers in that arena. I’m really excited about sharing that message, and that ACDelco has come forward to participate in the ‘Pros Who Know’ Scholarship Program. We kicked things off in San Antonio, with similar appearances scheduled in our race markets throughout the year, and I’m looking forward to meeting some great kids. It’s a great way to start our weekend at the races.”
As a long-time proponent of helping others to follow in his footsteps, Martin values speaking with students across the country, delivering a positive message while encouraging them to follow their dreams. At the time of this release, Martin already visited schools in San Antonio and Selma, AL, with upcoming appearances scheduled in Valdosta, GA, and Tulsa, OK, in addition to the Skills USA National Competition in Kansas City, MO and the Black Enterprise Entrepreneurs Conference & Expo in Orlando, FL.
For more information on, or to submit an application to the ACDelco – Harold Martin “Pros Who Know” Scholarship Program, visit www.acdelco.com. There is no purchase or order necessary to apply.