Ford/AAA Student Auto Skills Finals: 61st Annual Showcase of the Nation’s Top Young Auto Technicians

In a landscape where the economy faces uncertainty, automotive maintenance and technology remain one of the few sectors exhibiting strong productivity growth. As vehicles evolve with sophisticated electronics, hybrid powertrains, and connected systems, the demand for highly trained technicians has never been higher.

On June 13-15, Dearborn, Michigan, will host the 61st annual Ford/AAA Student Auto Skills National Finals, a timed, head‑to‑head competition that brings together the country’s most promising high‑school automotive technology students. Teams of two students and their high‑school instructor from every state will tackle realistic repair challenges and a 100‑question written exam, all designed to test their knowledge, problem‑solving abilities, and hands‑on skills.

More than 10,500 junior and senior students began the journey in March with a rigorous online exam; the top scorers advanced to state‑level contests, and the best from each state earned a spot in the National Finals. The event now features 100 finalists who have devoted countless hours of classroom study and extra preparation to earn a place among the nation’s elite.

Ford/AAA Student Auto Skills is more than a competition. This year’s program offers a record‑high $11.5 million in scholarships, along with unparalleled career‑building opportunities. Winners will job shadow the Roush Fenway Racing No. 16 Con‑way Freight team in July, gaining insight into the high‑performance racing world. They will also have the chance to meet Larry McReynolds, the renowned crew chief and this year’s national spokesperson, and interact with him on the track at O’Reilly Raceway Park during the Kroger 200.

Beyond the prizes, the National Finals celebrate stories of resilience, ambition, and mentorship. From Daniel Sarzynski’s triumphant comeback after a childhood brain cancer diagnosis to veteran instructor Merle Saunders’s 23‑year legacy of championship teams, each participant brings a unique narrative that underscores the program’s impact on students’ lives.

As the 26th year of AAA’s sponsorship and the 16th year of Ford’s partnership, the competition continues to be a cornerstone of automotive education. Participants not only showcase technical excellence but also gain exposure to industry leaders, scholarships, and potential employment pathways that can launch their careers in automotive repair and beyond.

At the National Finals, teams will be evaluated on a written exam and a hands‑on challenge conducted on the front lawn of Ford World Headquarters. The combined scores will determine the 2010 national champion—an accolade that propels students toward higher education and industry careers.