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BUSINESS

Inviting High School Graduates to Consider a Career in Automotive Retail

With 40% of 2024 high school graduates opting out of college, it’s time for the automotive retail industry to shine as a top alternative. Dealers have an opportunity to show young people a path that offers real-world experience, growth, and the chance to build a successful career without the burden of student debt.

Why College Isn’t the Only Option

It’s no secret that the allure of college has dimmed for many. With tuition costs soaring and student debt reaching crippling levels, more graduates are looking for alternatives. The question is, where do they go from here?

The automotive retail industry offers a compelling answer. Instead of spending four years in a classroom, young people can jump straight into a career where they can earn, learn, and grow—all without taking on massive debt. It’s a fast track to success, with plenty of room for advancement.

A Fast Track to Success

One of the greatest advantages of automotive retail is its accessibility. Entry-level roles are plentiful, and many don’t require previous experience. Whether you’re in sales, service, or administration, there’s a place for everyone.

In the same time it takes to earn a degree, a new hire at a dealership could move from a product specialist to a high-earning sales role or even management. A service technician could gain multiple certifications, boosting their pay and reducing their hours. This hands-on education is what truly prepares employees for long-term success.

Real Stories, Real Success

The auto industry is full of stories where employees started at entry-level positions and worked their way up:

• Carmen Hinton started as a receptionist and became a service manager.

• Glenn Kashima began as a parts delivery driver and is now a parts and service director.

• Diana Kennedy went from being a high school runaway to becoming a general manager.

These aren’t exceptions—they’re the rule. The industry is committed to helping employees grow, whether they stay at one dealership or move on to new opportunities.

Breaking the Stereotype: You Don’t Have to Be a “Car Person”

A common misconception is that you need to be a car expert to succeed in this industry. The reality is, the automotive retail sector values a wide range of skills—many of which come from outside the industry.

Whether you’ve worked in hospitality, retail, customer service, or any job that involves building relationships, there’s a place for you here. Success in auto retail isn’t about knowing cars inside and out—it’s about connecting with people, building trust, and delivering great customer experiences. The technical knowledge can be gained along the way, but those interpersonal skills are priceless.

Attracting the Next Generation

So how do we make auto retail stand out to today’s high school graduates? It starts with proactive engagement. Dealerships need to reach out to local schools, offer internships, and share success stories of employees who have thrived without a college degree.

Highlighting the accessibility, growth potential, and real-world education that dealerships provide can position automotive retail as a desirable career path—one that offers financial stability, career growth, and the satisfaction of working in a dynamic, people-focused environment.

Conclusion: Building the Future Together

As more high school graduates seek alternatives to college, the automotive retail industry has a unique opportunity to attract and nurture new talent. By showcasing the benefits and opportunities available, we can help guide the next generation toward a successful and fulfilling career—one that’s as rewarding as it is practical. The future of auto retail depends on it.

So, how are you making retail auto stand out for the next generation? Let’s share our strategies and successes as we work together to build a stronger, more vibrant workforce.

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