NAFA Partners with The Hourglass Foundation to Invest in Next-Generation Automotive Technicians

NAFA is excited to announce a new philanthropic alliance partnership with The Hourglass Foundation (THF) — a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and the charitable arm of Flexco Fleet Services. Established by Flexco founder Ron Shoemaker and his son Flexco CEO Chad Shoemaker, The Hourglass Foundation gives back to the community in a way that is aligned with the automotive industry.

Because NAFA supports the fleet industry by driving the advancement of the profession through the promotion and encouragement of education and research, this partnership to offer scholarships that support underserved students entering automotive repair is inspired by common ideals.

By joining forces, NAFA and THF will create positive impact in fleet communities by helping deserving students pursue meaningful careers in automotive, while also reducing the auto technician shortage by investing in educating the next generation of auto technicians. Currently there is a shortage of about 67,800 automotive service technicians and mechanics in the U.S. This shortage affects the entire fleet industry — from longer wait times and higher prices, to lack of skilled talent available for hire. NAFA and THF hope to facilitate industry-wide support for this crusade, as well as educate the next generation of techs about the amazing career opportunities that fleet can provide.

Through affiliation, both organizations also hope to strengthen donor and member reach and encourage more women to consider career paths in automotive.

NAFA is also part of THF’s new “We Are One” campaign to raise money for future scholarships. Anyone who donates $25 or more by October 15th, 2025, will automatically be entered into a drawing to win an iPad Pro.

“Together we have an opportunity to create real change in our industry,” says Kim Davidson, The Hourglass Foundation’s executive director. “I hope everyone in the industry finds a way to support NAFA advance this important new alliance.”