FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For more information, contact:
Sheri Hamilton, MWACA Executive Director
sheri@mwaca.org
Gladstone, MO, April 23, 2025 – The Midwest Auto Care Alliance (MWACA) proudly participated in the 6th annual Build My Future event in Des Moines, Iowa, helping spark interest in the automotive service industry among more than 7,000 students from across the state.
Hosted by the Iowa Skilled Trades Association, Build My Future is the largest hands-on skilled trades career event in the country, bringing together students, educators, and industry leaders for a one-of-a-kind interactive experience. With representation across multiple fields—including construction, healthcare, trucking, law enforcement, and culinary arts—the event’s mission is to open students’ eyes to the rewarding opportunities in skilled trades.
MWACA was honored to represent the automotive service industry at this influential event, offering students a chance to get up close and personal with real tools, real shop scenarios, and real conversations with professionals passionate about the industry.
“As someone born and raised in Iowa and deeply involved in the automotive field, it means a great deal to me to help showcase the opportunities our industry holds,” said Travis Troy, MWACA Executive Board Vice President. “We are facing a growing technician shortage across the country—and here in Iowa. Events like Build My Future are vital to planting the seed for the next generation. When students see how hands-on, innovative, and fulfilling this work is, they begin to see a future for themselves in it.”
According to industry data, for every five technicians retiring, only two are entering the field—posing a serious challenge for independent shops. MWACA recognizes the urgency of this gap and is committed to connecting with students early, providing resources, mentorship, and inspiration to pursue careers in the trades.
“Being at Build My Future isn’t just about presence—it’s about representation,” said Sheri Hamilton, MWACA Executive Director. “Too often, automotive careers are overlooked. This event gives us the opportunity to show students that the automotive industry is not only thriving—it’s evolving with technology, innovation, and real career potential. It’s our responsibility to ensure that message is loud and clear.”
MWACA’s interactive booth gave students hands-on experiences related to diagnostic tools, tire repair, and the latest in vehicle technology, as well as an opportunity to have fun with some race simulators. Volunteers from across the state—including shop owners, service advisors, technicians, and parts professionals—came together to answer questions and give students a taste of what careers in the automotive industry truly look like.
As an organization led by independent shop owners, MWACA remains deeply committed to addressing workforce development and technician recruitment. Whether through scholarships, shop mentoring programs, or community events like Build My Future, the alliance continues to elevate the industry and advocate for its future.
For more information about MWACA and its ongoing efforts to support automotive career development, visit www.mwaca.org/careers.
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MWACA is a 501(c)6 non-profit trade association led by independent automotive service professionals and serving the needs of service professionals throughout the Midwest and beyond. Beginning as a seven-county Kansas City chapter in the late 1980s, MWACA has grown into one of the most active and respected associations in the country. The organization hosts numerous Shop Owner Support (S.O.S.) Groups, mentorship programs, and is the founder of the nationally recognized VISION Hi-Tech Training & Expo. To learn more, visit www.mwaca.org.
