Overview
- CEO Jim Farley said Ford has about 5,000 vacant mechanic positions paying roughly $120,000 and described a broader national shortfall exceeding one million skilled-trade jobs.
- Federal data underscore the gap, with more than 400,000 open manufacturing roles as of August and about 67,800 projected annual openings for automotive technicians through 2033.
- Industry groups cite an annual shortfall of roughly 37,000 trained auto technicians, reflecting retirements and rising skill demands tied to EV systems, automation and advanced diagnostics.
- Ford’s recent steps, including removing its lowest pay tier, granting 25% raises in the 2023 UAW contract and launching a $4 million technician scholarship fund, have not closed the hiring gap.
- Enrollment in trade programs jumped 16% last year, yet experts and executives warn that multi‑year training needs and outdated curricula are limiting near‑term supply, with reported service and production delays already emerging.