How Do You Recruit and Retain Technicians Instead of Just Filling Holes?

In this episode of NGT Talks, Lindsey Trent sits down with George Arrants of the ASE Education Foundation to discuss what employers can do differently to recruit the next generation of technicians. George explains why companies need to stop viewing young talent as an expense and start treating workforce development as an investment—from building relationships with local schools and participating on advisory committees to offering internships, work-based learning opportunities, and meaningful mentorship.But recruiting technicians is only half the challenge—keeping them is just as important. George shares why compensation alone doesn't solve turnover and how workplace culture, proper tools and equipment, paid training, strong mentors, clear career pathways, and simply making employees feel valued can have a major impact on retention. The conversation also explores practical strategies such as starter tool programs, tuition reimbursement, and engaging automotive and agriculture students who may never have considered careers working on trucks. The message for employers is simple: building tomorrow's technician workforce starts with getting involved, investing in people, and creating a workplace where they want to stay.https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-arrants-bb28a47/Thank you to our Sponsors!!!https://www.tenstreet.com/https://www.trimble.com/enhttps://www.ushertransport.com/https://www.benekeith.com/https://www.ancora.com/https://driverslegalplan.com/https://www.dottransportation.com/https://cargotransporters.com/https://acronaviation.com/driver-training-solutions/https://www.isaacinstruments.com/https://www.uti.edu/The Next Generation in Trucking Association is a non-profit trade association who is engaging and training the next generation of trucking industry professionals by partnering with high schools, community/technical colleges and private schools to connect to and launch training programs around North America.Visit our website:  www.nextgentruckers.orgContact us at:  [email protected] us on socials here:FacebookInstagramYoutubeLinkedInTikTok