Walser and WSU Tech open new service lab to address automotive technician shortage

Walser Automotive Group has strengthened its partnership with WSU Tech by unveiling the Walser Automotive Service Lab, part of a $3 million renovation of the college’s automotive service facility. 

The upgraded 30,000-square-foot facility includes a state-of-the-art heavy truck area and a 72-person lecture hall designed to meet the growing demand for skilled automotive technicians.

The partnership between Walser and WSU Tech comes at a critical time for the U.S. automotive industry. A study by the TechForce Foundation estimates that by 2024, the demand for auto, diesel, and collision technicians will outpace supply by 3 to 1, creating a shortage of approximately 642,000 skilled workers. Walser’s investment in the service lab aims to address this issue by providing students with the hands-on training they need to fill the growing gap.

“Investing in the communities where we live and work is key to our mission,” said Nancy Warner, Director of the Walser Foundation. “The decision to invest in this multi-year grant ensures WSU Tech students have access to hands-on learning and career readiness.”

Walser’s Wichita campus, home to nine luxury brands and 250 employees, has benefited from ongoing collaboration with WSU Tech to train and retain new technicians. 

Funding for the Walser Automotive Service Lab was made possible by a multi-year grant through the Walser Foundation, which allocates 5% of all pre-tax earnings to education and workforce development initiatives. 

Nancy Warner, Director of the Walser Foundation, emphasised the importance of investing in education and career readiness. “The decision to invest in this multi-year grant ensures WSU Tech students have access to hands-on learning and career readiness,” Warner said.

“Walser has made significant efforts to create pathways for emerging technician talent to find a home with us," said Randy Lammle, SVP of Dealership Operations at Walser Auto Campus. “WSU Tech has been a vital partner in supporting our techs' growth through classroom education. Strengthening our relationship with the school was an easy decision.”